Top 10 Beach Destinations in Queensland

It’s no secret that Queensland is home to some of the best beaches in the world. So, why not make your next holiday the ultimate summer escape with a visit to one of Queensland’s top beach destinations?

With almost 7,000 kilometres of coastline to explore, it’s no wonder that Queensland’s postcard-perfect beaches draw visitors from across the globe. Whether you’re searching for a quiet stretch of sand to relax with the family or a bustling beach town with world-class surf breaks, there’s a beach destination for everyone in the Sunshine State.

Not sure which beach is right for you? Check out our 10 favourite Queensland beach destinations below!

2. Airlie Beach, Whitsundays

If you’re planning a trip to the Whitsundays, don’t miss the mainland – the coastal resort town of Airlie Beach is home to some breathtakingly beautiful beaches. The perfect place to take it slow, Airlie Beach Esplanade is home to beautiful waterfront parks, al fresco restaurants and lively local markets. Between the palm-fringed beach and the bustling main street, you’ll also find Airlie Beach Lagoon – a man-made paradise particularly great for a family day-out.

4. Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast

While the Gold Coast is brimming with pristine, world-class beaches, Burleigh Heads stands out as a local favourite. Offering the best of both worlds, visitors can choose between the calmer waters of the main beach and world-class surf breaks around the headlands. Nearby, you’ll find Burleigh Head National Park – trek the Oceanview Walk for breathtaking coastal and rainforest vistas before topping off a perfect day with sunset cocktails at the famed Burleigh Pavillion.

6. Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island

Catch a quick, 45-minute from Cairns to reach the unspoiled island of Fitzroy Island, located within the sheltered waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Here, you’ll find Nudey Beach, best known for its spectacular white sands and surrounding rainforest. Don your snorkelling gear and step straight from the shore into the colourful fringing reef before paying a visit to Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where you can learn about what goes into the recovery of sick and injured turtles.

8. Tangalooma Beach, Moreton Island

While Brisbane is better known as a city break destination, tropical paradise is just a 90-minute ferry ride away. Moreton Island is perhaps best known for Tangalooma Beach, where you can snorkel amongst deliberately-sunken shipwrecks and spot turtles, dolphins and stingrays. Be sure to visit the Tangalooma Island Resort activity desk, where the friendly team can hook you up with a range of activities, including ATV quad biking, kayaking and snorkelling.

10. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays

Whitehaven Beach, located on the idyllic Whitsunday Island, is perhaps Australia’s most celebrated beach. Stretching over seven kilometres, Whitehaven Beach boasts brilliant white silica sand and warm waters in unreal shades of turquoise and blue. At the northern end of Whitehaven Beach, you’ll find Hill Inlet, where tides shift the sand and water to create a swirling fusion of colours. Whitehaven Beach is best reached via a 30-minute catamaran from Hamilton Island – there are plenty of day tours to choose from.