Postcard-Perfect Beach Paradises of Australia

Shake up your beach holiday with picture-perfect backgrounds, delicious Aussie fare and eclectic shopping — just a stone’s throw away from Australia’s city centres 

Home to over 10,000 beaches, it’s unsurprising that Australia has some of the world’s most pristine and picturesque coastal precincts. From beaches lined with multi-coloured bathing boxes to sculptures along spectacular coastlines, we handpick the country’s three finest stretches of paradise that will have you raring for a quick seaside escape pronto 

1. Bondi, New South Wales

Bondi Beach may be one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand but come October and November, the iconic beach turns into an outdoor art gallery. Be dazzled by Sculpture By the Sea, a free exhibition featuring sculptures of every shape, colour and size along the coast from Bondi to Tamarama Beach, roughly 30 minutes from Sydney’s city centre by train and bus. 

Looking to whet your appetite? Whether you’re hungry for food, drinks or shopping, Bondi’s Campbell Parade has it all. Shop for eclectic pieces at its stylish boutiques or visit the Bondi Beach Markets on Sundays for great bargains on handmade jewellery and vintage clothing. 

2. Cottesloe, Western Australia

Sun, surf, pine trees and a lively boulevard — that’s Cottesloe in a nutshell.

Less than 30 minutes away by car, the precinct boasts a beautiful beach where you can have a dip in the sea, snorkel or sit down to a seafood lunch in a striking art deco building overlooking the Indian Ocean. If you prefer to keep your flip-flops sand-free, head inland towards Cottesloe Esplanade and picnic on a sprawling lawn shaded by giant Norfolk pine trees.

3. Brighton, Victoria

Get snap-happy at Brighton Beach, renowned for its 82 bathing boxes previously used primarily as private changing facilities for swimmers in the 1800s. Strike a pose in front of the rainbow-coloured bathing boxes plastered with kangaroos, waves and the Australian flag, just a half-hour drive from Melbourne.  

Brighton’s quaint charm doesn’t end at its shores. Hit the Bay Street shopping strip, just a five-minute drive away, for your fill of cool cafes serving affordable brunch classics like smashed avocado on toast and fresh salad bowls. Palace Cinemas, with its selection of art house films and plush interior, is also a must-visit for film buffs. 

Now who’s ready for that much-needed seaside getaway?