Explore the coastal magic of Western Australia this summer with our guide to the state’s most beautiful beaches
As we welcome summer, what better time to discover the beauty of Western Australia’s picture-perfect beaches. Picture yourself unwinding on a sun-drenched stretch of white sand, and you’ll start to get an idea of just how special Western Australia’s beaches are and why they continually end up atop global ‘best of’ lists.
“You have this crazy vast, open outback that’s dry and a little rough, but then a hundred metres later you come across these pristine beaches that are unlike anything else” says Daniel Ricciardo, WA tourism ambassador.
Which beaches, you say? These ones, for a start:
Greens Pool, Denmark (South West Edge):
The ideal destination for swimming, snorkelling and diving, where sculpted rocks shelter the bay from the swell beyond, and picturesque swimming pools invite you to relax. Immerse yourself in the scenery, wander through the nearby spring wildflowers, or venture on a brief stroll across the headland to reach Elephant Rocks. Its unsurprising Greens Pool claimed the esteemed 4th position in the Top 10 Beaches in the South Pacific during Tripadvisor’s 2022 Traveller’s Choice Awards. Situated within the William Bay National Park, Green Pools is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Denmark.
Twilight Bay, Esperance (Great Ocean Drive):
Take in the incomparable scenery along Great Ocean Drive, and experience coastal relaxation just minutes from the town centre. A place where pristine white sands seamlessly meet unbelievably turquoise waters, surrounded by gently rounded granite cliffs and views of islands that showcase the scenic coastline. From Hellfire Bay to Lucky Bay and everywhere in between, the beaches of Esperance (Kepa Kurl) in WA’s golden outback are routinely rated the best in the world, Lucky Bay securing itself first-position in The World’s 50 Best Beaches for 2023.
Meelup Beach, Margaret River Region (South West Wine and Nature Drive):
Situated near Dunsborough at the northern tip of the Margaret River Region, Meelup Beach stands out as one of Western Australia’s rare north-facing beaches, recognisable for its pristine white sand and tranquil, gently rolling waves. A favoured spot for yachts and sailing boats, the beach offers an environment for swimming and relaxation.
This is a place where barbecues and picnic tables are tucked beneath leafy gum trees, scattered across expansive grassy areas, creating an ideal setting for picnics throughout the year. Meelup Beach is bordered by coastal walk trails, ocean views and a burst of vibrant wildflowers in the spring. You’ll find the locals frequent Meelup Beach during summer evenings, to watch the full moon rise over the horizon of the Indian Ocean.
Turquoise Bay, Exmouth (Coral Coast Highway):
Hailed as one of the Ningaloo region’s top spots for land-based snorkelling, Turquoise Bay invites you into the crystal-clear waters of the world heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef Lagoon. Just steps from the shore, pristine coral gardens and vibrant marine life call Turquoise Bay home.
Embark on a snorkelling adventure along the Turquoise Bay Drift, where you’ll glide over coral gardens housing a diverse community of brightly coloured reef fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine life. Whether you’re up for a solo snorkelling adventure straight off the beach or prefer a guided tour, you can partake in both at this beautiful destination.
It’s easy to see why Turquoise Bay takes centre stage in Exmouth’s Cape Range National Park, securing its reputation as the second-best beach in the world. Dive into this aquatic paradise and discover why it’s a must-visit gem on the Ningaloo Coast.
Cable Beach, Broome:
Explore sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, and detach from the demands of daily life, while exploring 22 kilometers of sun-soaked beach. Ranked the third best beach globally by TripAdvisor, this tropical paradise offers a range of experiences. Enjoy the iconic camel train journey to a scenic boat trip to see the sun dip below the horizon. Watch the breathtaking transition from day to night as Cable Beach in the Kimberley showcases its renowned golden hour, where Indian Ocean sunsets paint the sky in hues of pink, orange, and purple, leaving you in awe of nature’s beauty.
Misery Beach, Albany (South West Edge):
Recognised as Australia’s best beach according to Tourism Australia’s Beach Ambassador Brad Farmer, Misery Beach welcomes you to relax on the spectacular 200-metre stretch of soft white sands, shielded by a dramatic granite backdrop. Enjoy a barefoot beach walk through this hidden oasis, treating yourself to breathtaking views of King George Sound. On clear days, catch glimpses of the distant rugged peaks of Stirling Range National Park, positioned 90 kilometers away in the captivating Great Southern Region. Or opt for an extraordinary start to your day by heading out early to witness the sunrise, where the sky is painted in a soothing palette of soft pastels.