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Queensland is renowned for its stunning coastline, offering some of the most picturesque and diverse beaches in Queensland. Whether it’s the bustling shores of the Gold Coast, the relaxed ambience of Sunshine Coast beaches, or the serene stretches found on Fraser Island and the Whitsundays, each location is unique. Queensland’s coastal areas blend scenic beauty with adventure and relaxation, making them a must-visit for travellers seeking the quintessential Queensland beach experience.
Top 10 Beaches In Queensland
Here is a list of must-visit beaches in Queensland which offer stunning coastlines perfect for relaxation, adventure, and marine life.
1. Whitehaven Beach (Whitsundays)
Photo: Slug69 / Wikimedia Commons
Whitehaven Beach is the crown jewel of Queensland’s coastline, famous for its pristine white silica sand and clear turquoise waters. Spanning over 7 kilometres on Whitsunday Island, this beach is a sight to behold with its swirling patterns of sand and sea, especially viewed from the Hill Inlet lookout. Accessible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, Whitehaven Beach provides a serene escape that feels almost otherworldly. The unspoiled beauty of this beach, set against lush greenery, is ideal for snorkelling, swimming, and simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
Best Time To Visit: September to November
2. Four Mile Beach (Port Douglas)
Photo: Jellyhelmetfishing / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Four Mile Beach is a scenic stretch located in the tropical town of Port Douglas. Its golden sands extend as far as the eye can see, bordered by lush palm trees and the blue expanse of the Coral Sea. This beach is perfect for morning jogs, leisurely walks, or lounging in the sun with the mountains as a dramatic backdrop. The calm waters make it a safe swimming spot for most of the year, with stinger nets in place during jellyfish season.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
3. Surfers Paradise Beach (Gold Coast)
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons
Surfers Paradise Beach is synonymous with the Gold Coast’s vibrant lifestyle. Known for its wide, golden sands and consistently great waves, it attracts surfers, beachgoers, and families alike. The area is lively, with high-rise buildings providing a city-meets-sea skyline. Lifeguards patrol the beach year-round, ensuring the safety of swimmers. Surfers Paradise also offers ample amenities, including restaurants, shops, and attractions just steps from the beach. The annual surfing competitions and festivals add to its dynamic reputation.
Best Time To Visit: September and April
4. Noosa Main Beach (Sunshine Coast)
Photo: Rowan Heuvel / Wikimedia Commons
Noosa Main Beach is a quintessential Queensland destination known for its gentle waves, making it ideal for families and beginner surfers. Situated near Noosa National Park, this beach boasts calm, clear waters and a laid-back vibe. The adjacent Hastings Street offers a variety of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to transition from beach relaxation to exploring local culinary delights. With lifeguards on duty year-round, it’s a safe and popular spot for swimming.
Best Time To Visit: September to November
5. 75 Mile Beach (Fraser Island)
Photo: Pavel Špindler / Wikimedia Commons
Stretching along the eastern coast of World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, 75 Mile Beach is as impressive as it is unique. This vast expanse of golden sand doubles as a scenic highway and landing strip for small planes. Its natural features include the famous Maheno Shipwreck and colourful sand cliffs known as The Pinnacles. Although the waters are not ideal for swimming due to strong currents and sharks, visitors can cool off in the Champagne Pools, a natural rock pool formation.
Best Time To Visit: April to September
6. Burleigh Heads Beach (Gold Coast)
Photo: Herry Lawford / Wikimedia Commons
Burleigh Heads Beach is cherished for its blend of scenic beauty and vibrant local culture. The beach is surrounded by Burleigh Heads National Park, offering walking trails with panoramic views. Known for its consistent waves, Burleigh is a hotspot for surfers and beachgoers looking for an authentic coastal experience. Families appreciate the grassy areas for picnics, while food lovers enjoy the array of nearby cafes and local markets. This beach also hosts events and surf competitions that draw crowds, adding to its lively atmosphere.
Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to November
7. Mission Beach (Far North Queensland)
Photo: Cookaa / Wikimedia Commons
Mission Beach is a hidden gem that spans 14 kilometres of untouched coastline. This tropical haven sits between two World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. With its palm-fringed shores and calm waters, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The beach’s relaxed atmosphere is complemented by the occasional sighting of cassowaries in the nearby forest. Mission Beach also offers opportunities for snorkelling, skydiving, and exploring Dunk Island, which lies just offshore.
Best Time To Visit: June to October
8. Palm Cove Beach (Cairns)
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons
Palm Cove Beach is a serene, tropical stretch located just north of Cairns. This beach is famed for its palm-lined shore, calm waters, and relaxed ambience. It’s ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying picnics under the shade of towering trees. Palm Cove’s boutique atmosphere is complemented by upscale resorts, spas, and restaurants, making it popular among couples and families seeking a quieter beach retreat. The scenic jetty provides a perfect spot for fishing and watching the sunrise. Its proximity to Cairns and other attractions, like the Great Barrier Reef, makes Palm Cove a perfect blend of seclusion and convenience.
Best Time To Visit: May to October
9. Coolangatta Beach (Gold Coast)
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons
Coolangatta Beach offers a more relaxed alternative to the bustling Surfers Paradise. Situated near the Queensland–New South Wales border, it’s known for its soft sand, clear water, and consistent surf breaks. The beach’s laid-back vibe attracts both surfers and families. Close to Snapper Rocks, a famous surfing point, Coolangatta also hosts major surfing competitions. The area features charming cafes, shops, and a coastal walk that connects it to nearby beaches such as Rainbow Bay and Greenmount.
Best Time To Visit: September to November and March to May
10. Elliot Heads Beach (Bundaberg)
Photo: $tormifyed / Wikimedia Commons
Elliot Heads Beach is a stunning and lesser-known coastal spot near Bundaberg. It boasts pristine white sand and turquoise waters where the Coral Sea meets the Elliot River. The beach is popular for a range of activities, including swimming, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The river mouth creates a unique landscape that’s perfect for exploring or enjoying a peaceful day by the water. Elliot Heads is also ideal for picnics, with facilities and shaded spots available.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Beaches in Queensland offer visitors a combination of pristine beauty, adventure, and relaxation. These coastal paradises cater to a wide range of experiences, whether you’re looking to surf, snorkel, sunbathe, or simply marvel at breathtaking ocean views. Queensland’s beaches are not just places to visit—they’re destinations that captivate the heart and invite repeated exploration. Plan a trip with TripXL to experience the pristine beaches.
Cover Photo: Hush Neo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
