The 19 Best Queensland Beaches You Have To Visit

From the Gold Coast to the Tropical North, Queensland beaches are some of the sunniest, splashiest, most stunning gems Australia has to offer.

If Queensland beaches had a fan club, we’d be proud members. Sand so white it glistens, waters so blue they seem Photoshopped, and sunsets that stir the soul make us huge fans of the Sunshine State’s shores.

Whatever your vibe—chasing waves, lounging on the sand, or hunting for the perfect IG shot—there’s a sun-soaked spot waiting for you.

But with over 7,000 km of coastline, where do you even start?

With that in mind, we’re diving into the top Queensland beaches by region.

So whether you’re road-tripping the Sunshine Coast, exploring Tropical North Queensland, or sailing around the Whitsunday Islands, you can start planning your dream getaway.

Looking for a secluded shore backed by lush green rainforest? Maybe hip surf beaches are more your bias?

Here are the best beaches in Queensland, where the coast oozes with charm and adventure is just a tide away.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

The Sunshine Coast truly lives up to its name, boasting an average of seven hours of sunshine per day and more than 300 sunny days a year.

Then, there are the seaside towns and pristine beaches scattered all along the Sunshine Coast, making this part of Queensland one of our favourite places to be.

Located in the town of Noosa, Sunshine Beach is your go-to all-rounder, open year-round. Though popular among surfers (waves can reach up to 7 feet!), it remains relatively quiet and secluded.

Not a surfer? Take a dip in the balmy waters instead. Lifeguards patrol the beach year-round, making it a safe place to swim, even for younger kids.

If sunbathing is more your vibe, there’s plenty of pristine white sand to stretch out on.

For hikers, Sunshine Beach opens up to a 15-km strip of white sand beaches and great surf. It’s also the endpoint of the 5.4-km scenic walk through Noosa National Park. You can make the journey from Noosa Main Beach to Sunshine in about three hours.

Want to grab a snack or cool off with a drink? A handful of cafés and bars line the beachfront. Enjoy your iced latte and the ocean views.

Explore more with these amazing day trips from Noosa!

Quite possibly the most popular holiday destination on the Sunshine Coast, the sleepy town of Noosa draws roughly two million visitors each year. One of its main attractions is the iconic Main Beach.

This rare north-facing beach, one of the few on Australia’s east coast, sits between the rugged Noosa National Park and trendy Hastings Street. That means you get the best of both worlds: raw natural beauty and just the right amount of bustle.

Sheltered from strong winds and currents, Main Beach is generally calm, making it ideal for casual swimmers and beginner surfers.

But on the right day, you can catch the famous Noosa Heads right-hand surf break, one of the longest on the Sunshine Coast.

If you’re looking to learn how to surf, Main Beach is the perfect spot to start. There’s also no shortage of watersports, from kayaking on the Noosa waterways to dolphin safaris in the surrounding ocean.

After a splash, head to Hastings, Noosa’s stylish high street, for a spa session, upscale dining, or boutique shopping.

Rainbow Beach is a coastal town famed for its multi-coloured seaside cliffs and glistening golden sand dunes.

The jewel in Rainbow Beach’s crown is the surreal Carlo Sand Blow, a colossal, wind-blown sand mass overlooking the ocean. From its edge, you can take in sweeping views of Fraser Island to the north and Double Island Point to the south.

With such incredible scenery, Rainbow draws avid hikers. The Cooloola Great Walk—a 102-km route across the Great Sandy National Park—ends at the southern edge of town.

Not into hiking? Rainbow Beach is one of the few places on the Sunshine Coast (and in Australia) where you can drive directly onto the sand.

Hop in a 4WD and explore one of the most stunning beaches in Queensland on a sightseeing tour. Eager to see more? Combine your drive with a three-day tour of K’gari (Fraser Island).

Mooloolaba Beach is not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Queensland but also one of the most family-friendly.

This lively, sandy beach takes its stunning scenery seriously. One of its most iconic—and quirky—features is the Loo with a View, a public toilet that looks out over the Pacific Ocean.

With clear, calm waters patrolled by lifeguards year-round, Mooloolaba is an ideal swimming spot for families with young children.

Beyond the water, there’s a lot of room to spread out your towel and chill. But if lounging isn’t your thing, you’ll find lots of activities to keep you entertained—from stand-up paddle boarding to snorkelling and wildlife spotting on a custom-built inflatable raft.

At low tide, explore the rock pools on the shore. Or head to SEA LIFE, a guaranteed hit with kids and adults fascinated by marine life.

Foodie? You’ll love Mooloolaba’s dining scene, with its impressive lineup of restaurants, cafés, and bars.

If you’re looking for a secluded island paradise, K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) should be on your itinerary.

Spanning 122 km in length, it’s the largest sand island in the world. That means it’s packed with sandy beaches—likely more than there are people. Inland, you’ll find tropical rainforests and over a hundred freshwater lakes.

On the island, you’ll never run out of places to cool off, even beyond the beach. Our favourite spot for a swim is the crystal-clear Lake McKenzie, though the fizzing Champagne Pools come a close second.

While K’gari (Fraser Island) isn’t technically part of the Sunshine Coast, it’s easily accessible from Rainbow Beach or Noosa on a day trip.

Visit between July and October for the chance to spot humpback whales in the wild on a full-day island cruise.

With a name like the Gold Coast and a coastline stretching 40 km, the scenery is bound to be golden, especially when it comes to the beaches.

No matter what kind of beachgoer you are—wave chaser, pro paddler, or die-hard sunbather—the Gold Coast has something for you.

Technically a creek, but let’s not get hung up on labels—Tallebudgera Creek (or just Talle to locals) is pure beach bliss. Think powdery white sand, glittering blue water, and barely a ripple in sight. It’s ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or just lazing under the sun.

Tallebudgera Creek is a family favourite, thanks to its calm, patrolled waters and easy access from both Palm Beach and Burleigh Heads National Park.

Got kids, prams, or beach carts? No stress. There’s beach matting, wheelchairs available on weekends, and a car park merely steps from the sand.

Hungry? Right by the shore and just across the street, you’ll find a bunch of cafes and restaurants serving anything from vegan meals to Portuguese tarts.

Nature lovers, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, cockatoos, and even a kingfisher or two. And if you’re curious about Talle’s cultural roots, follow the walking trail to learn about the Kombumerri people’s deep connection to this special place.

Had enough of the coast? Explore inland with these top Gold Coast hikes!

With so many stunning Queensland beaches to choose from, Burleigh Heads Beach still manages to stand out, and for good reason.

Perfectly placed between buzzing Surfers Paradise and chill Coolangatta, this Gold Coast gem is equal parts laid-back charm and world-class waves.

But what makes Burleigh one of the best beaches in Queensland is not just the scenery but also the vibe. There are lovely forest walks right next to the beach in Burleigh Heads National Park.

The beach boasts gentle swimming spots patrolled by lifeguards from 8 am to 5 pm daily and legendary surf breaks around the headland.

Norfolk pines, picnic spots, and paths for bike rides or lazy strolls line the breezy foreshore. From the hilltop, you’ll score lovely views stretching to the city skyline.

When you’ve had your fill of sea and sand, wander through markets and boutiques along James Street for handmade treasures and boho flair.

Some people equate beautiful beaches with empty stretches of golden sand—until, of course, they step into Surfers Paradise.

No other beach on the Gold Coast exudes more energy and excitement than Surfers Paradise. But while the ‘burb is best known for its pulsating nightlife and glamorous skyscrapers that pierce the skyline, it does have pockets of peaceful hideaways along its 3 km coastline.

A tried-and-tested, patrolled surf beach, it boasts consistent rolling swells that draw surfers of all skill levels, though the gentler waves are ideal for beginners. Unsurprisingly, surf lessons and surf schools are big here.

Beyond the sand, Surfers has a lot going on—theme park rides, beach markets, waterfront dining, casinos, and a bar scene that doesn’t believe in bedtime.

That’s not to say Surfers isn’t family-friendly. Kids will love attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not and mini-golf, while thrill-seekers can ride the elevator to the SkyPoint Observation Deck for jaw-dropping views of the Gold Coast.

If you ever want to escape the bustle of Surfers Paradise, Palm Beach offers a refreshing change of pace. Here, everything slows down, without ever getting boring.

Palm Beach has been crowned the cleanest beach on the Queensland coast not once, but thrice. But that’s not its only claim to fame.

It’s trendy and retro all at once, a vibe you’ll see in the mix of upscale high-rises and vintage beach shacks.

Surfers, swimmers, and sun lovers flock to this expansive sandy beach not just for the relaxed atmosphere, but because it’s made for salty hair, sun-kissed skin, and bare feet.

Find more nearby spots with this list of the best Gold Coast beaches!

The Tropical North is where you’ll find some of the most stunning Queensland beaches. The farther north you go, the more exotic they seem to become.

And if it’s a motley of beach varieties you’re after, the Tropical North always delivers—whether it’s palm-fringed coves, wide sandy bays, or secluded islands.

But before you get to wandering around the coast, here are some safety precautions you need to know:

The Tropical North is known for its marine stingers like the ‘box jellyfish’ and the Irukandji. The risk of encountering these is higher during the warmer months, typically from November to May.

Be sure to swim only at patrolled beaches. Stay within the safety nets and between the flags. Wear a wetsuit during the stinger season.

Heed warning signs, especially when it comes to currents and crocs. If unsure, seek the advice of the lifesavers on patrol.

Explore Queensland’s Tropical North with a trip to the Daintree Rainforest!

Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island, tucked just off the Queensland coast, is a tropical daydream come true—minus the nudity. Despite the name, it’s strictly swimsuit (and family) friendly!

Perched on the southwestern coast of Fitzroy Island, a designated national park, Nudey Beach is a striking burst of colours: sugar-white sand, aqua-blue water, and weathered grey boulders set against a lush green rainforest.

Getting there is part of the adventure. Hop on a 45-minute ferry from Cairns to Fitzroy Island, then follow the short, scenic trail through groves of acacias, eucalyptus, and beech trees to the beach.

Fringed by a coral reef teeming with marine life, Nudey Beach is just as magical below the surface. So, don’t forget your snorkelling gear. Or opt for a full-day tour with options to snorkel or cruise the reef in a glass-bottom boat.

Beyond the beach, hike to the Fitzroy Island Lighthouse where you can see Green Island in the distance. Stop by the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre if time allows.

There are no eateries at Nudey Beach, and Fitzroy Island has just two restaurants—both may require reservations. Planning to stay all day? Bring your own food and drinks.

Just a breezy 25-minute drive north of Cairns, Palm Cove is a favourite base for exploring North Queensland, including the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

But once you step into this tranquil coastal community—with its palm-fringed beach, paperbark-lined promenade, and vibrant food scene—you might not want to leave.

This quiet suburb is all about slowing down and embracing a laid-back, boho lifestyle. Sunrise yoga one minute, barefoot strolls the next, and sunset kayaking to wrap up your day.

Dinner by the beach? Absolutely. There’s no shortage of delicious options here, including the award-winning Nu Nu Restaurant.

Palm Cove isn’t just one of the best beaches in Cairns. But it’s also one of the safest. During jellyfish season, it’s patrolled and protected by a stinger net, so swimmers and families can splash about worry-free.

Lodged between a rainforest-clad hill and the calm Coral Sea, Ellis Beach proves you don’t have to venture far to find a secret slice of heaven in Queensland.

Almost always empty—even in summer—Ellis is the perfect spot to spread out your towel and soak up the sun. Leaning palm trees frame the 1-km stretch of golden sand, offering dappled shade and a postcard-worthy backdrop.

The water here is typically calm, thanks to the natural shelter of Double Island and Buchan Point, a rocky headland at the beach’s southern tip. Occasionally, small waves roll in—just right for rookie surfers.

Ellis Beach is easily accessed from the Captain Cook Highway. On the beachfront, you’ll find a relaxed bar and grill—a favourite pit stop for savvy road trippers heading to Port Douglas.

Read next: The Perfect 4 Days In Port Douglas Itinerary

Here’s a fun fact: Four Mile Beach is, in reality, four kilometres long, and it got its name after the local Fourmile family, not its length!

Despite its proximity to the resort town of Port Douglas, Four Mile remains delightfully undeveloped. Patrolled year-round with a stinger net in place, it’s as safe as it is scenic. The honey-coloured beach looks even more stunning from atop Flagstaff Hill.

Four Mile may not be a surf beach, but it’s a stand-out when it comes to kite surfing. The waves, typically gentle and even, are also great for boogie boarding.

Smaller crowds, no chain stores—just a dreamy sandy beach with BBQ spots, swaying palm trees, and the occasional croc warning sign to keep things interesting. What’s not to love about Four Mile Beach?

Between the reef and rainforest on the Cassowary Coast is Mission Beach, the textbook definition of a quaint, unhurried coastal getaway.

This 14-km stretch of undiluted raw beauty consists of four seaside villages: Bingil Bay, Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, and South Mission Beach.

Among the villages, Mission Beach is arguably the liveliest, with its sandy, palm-flanked bay dotted with a few shops and the occasional bar.

While it’s the closest mainland access point to the Great Barrier Reef, it’s refreshingly uncrowded compared to the busier ports in Cairns and Port Douglas.

For safe swimming, there’s an enclosure near Pacific Parade, patrolled daily by surf lifesavers. You can also paddle to nearby Dunk Island or go as far as Beaver Cay for a snorkelling cruise.

The ancient Wet Tropics Rainforest is at your doorstep if you prefer dry land adventures. For an adrenaline rush, try tandem skydiving over Mission Beach.

Of course, you can simply stretch out on the sand and do absolutely nothing but keep an eye out for a cassowary bird or two.

Granite headlands, hidden bays, and hoop pines dotting the coastline, all these make Magnetic Island a lovely contrast to many of the beaches in North Queensland.

A national park (over 78% of the land area is protected), it shelters an array of wildlife, ranging from rock wallabies and possums to butterflies and 100 bird species.

The star celebrities here, however, are the koalas. It’s one of the few places in Queensland where you’re sure to see these cuddly critters in the wild.

With 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic is indeed a magnet for sun-worshippers. Pick one (or all): Alma Bay is best for a family day trip, Nelly Bay is great for snorkelling, and Radical Bay offers serene seclusion.

The Whitsundays consist of 74 continental islands scattered between Queensland’s northeast coast and the Great Barrier Reef.

While most are uninhabited, all are uniquely beautiful, covered by dense rainforests and fringed by white sand beaches.

Just 150-metre long, Horseshoe Bay is a pint-sized paradise with tremendous charm. Its calm, crystalline waters, sheltered by craggy headlands, are made for a splash or spotting turtles offshore.

The reef fringing the bay teems with marine life, and you can rent snorkel gear right on the beach. Sunbathing is always an option, too.

Then, shake off the sand and hike up to Rotary Lookout for dazzling views. You can also stroll the scenic Cape Edgecumbe Trail linking Horseshoe to neighbouring bays.

Horseshoe Bay is in the idyllic town of Bowen, a 40-minute drive from Airlie Beach, the base for exploring the Whitsundays.

If you visit the best beaches in Queensland and skip Whitehaven Beach, what are you even doing? This place is heaven on earth, or more precisely, heaven in Queensland.

Located on Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach stretches seven kilometres with sand so white, soft, and fine you can’t help but sink your toes in.

The calm waters, a dreamy swirl of teal, turquoise, and emerald, doesn’t disappoint either. Calm and comfortably warm year-round, it’s perfect for swimming.

There’s no coral reef along the shallow shoreline, so you’ll need to head a bit farther out for snorkelling. Don’t worry—there are plenty of great snorkelling spots nearby, easily accessible on day tours around the Whitsunday Islands.

Don’t miss the hike to Tongue Point lookout at the northern end of the beach. From there, you can marvel at the spectacular swirling sands of Hill Inlet.

Want to explore beyond Whitehaven? Book a full-day eco-tour to see more of the stunning Whitsundays.

If you’re planning a day trip from Brisbane, check out these gorgeous beaches:

Kangaroos on the shore? What could be more Aussie than that? At North Stradbroke Island, a.k.a. Straddie to the locals, beach vibes meet wildlife.

As the world’s second-largest sand island, it boasts a slew of beautiful beaches.

Chill out on Cylinder Beach, a sun-soaked, family-friendly cove with white sand and gentle waves, or wander to South Gorge Beach for a wilder, more rugged day out.

Hike the stunning North Gorge Headlands and keep your eyes peeled for whales breaching offshore from May to November.

A natural show-stopper, Moreton Island’s Tangalooma is easily one of the most unique Queensland beaches.

What makes it distinct is the cluster of ships half-submerged in the turquoise waters.

Between 1963 and 1984, the local government deliberately sank these vessels to create an anchorage for small boats.

Now, it’s one of the best diving spots in Queensland. Not only is the site fascinating, but it’s also a haven for over 100 fish species. Some days, you can spot dugongs and dolphins gliding about.

While you can swim to the wrecks from the beach, we highly recommend you don’t due to the strong currents when the tide is running.

It’s safer to explore the wrecks on a kayak or boat. Or, you can book a guided day cruise.

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