Oceania’s Top 50 Beaches
Australia and the South Pacific are home to some of the most enchanting beaches in the world, which is why we’ve created an in-depth list of where to lay your towel on these magical coastlines. Our thorough catalog of Australian and the South Pacific beaches allows travelers to obtain the knowledge needed to plan an unforgettable journey to the warm waters and velvety beaches of these superb shores.
After conferring with over 1200 journalists, editors, bloggers, and agencies, who live for travel, our FlightNetwork team created Oceania’s Top 50 Beaches©. The result is a collection of information that’s crucial for any traveler that would like to explore these exotic areas where the sand meets the sea.
Discover the wonders featured in our list, which includes the rugged oasis of Auckland’s Piha beach, the white sand shore of Tasmania’s Binalong Bay, replete with fire-hued rocks, and Fraser Island that transports you to a world of calm the moment you dip your toes into its fluffy sands. If you choose to take full advantage of this list, you’ll find yourself gliding through the balmy seas of Fiji, from West Australia to Queensland and New South Wales in Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, French Polynesia and more.
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Whitehaven Beach Accessible by boat, helicopter and seaplane, this stunning beach is located on Queensland’s Whitsunday Islands. The contrast of the piercing-white sand against the fluorescent-green backdrop of the tropical forest on the island’s mountains will leave you speechless. With over 290 days of sunshine a year and a cozy average temperature of 27 degrees … Continue reading Whitehaven Beach
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Matira Beach Matira Beach in Bora Bora has been called the most beautiful beach in the world. The sand is whiter than snow and the water is the color turquoise come to life. The ocean’s crystal-clear visibility gives you an up close and personal shot of the thousands of marine animals living just under the … Continue reading Matira Beach
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Blinky Beach Calling all surfers, Blinky Beach on Lord Howe Island offers some of the least crowded and best waves Australia has to offer. Beginner or expert, you will find swells on this beach that will match your skill level and fill your adventurous heart with excitement. If you prefer a more relaxing visit, the … Continue reading Blinky Beach
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Hyams Beach Nestled in Jervis Bay on New South Wales, Hyams Beach appears to be out of a fairytale. Once voted the whitest sand in the world, the beach provides an incredible contrast against the cerulean water and emerald-green trees scattered along the island. No matter how you spend your day, plan on catching the … Continue reading Hyams Beach
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Cable Beach Imagine yourself riding a camel across a pristine beach or the Southern Cross hovering above your head. Welcome to Cable Beach in Western Australia. This jaw-dropping scene is a common one on the beautiful stretch of sand. Inside the coastal reserve of Minyirr Park, you can relax at this remote beach, explore the … Continue reading Cable Beach
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Lucky Bay If you have ever dreamt of befriending kangaroos while tanning on an ice-white beach, Lucky Bay in Western Australia is the place for you. Lucky Bay also offers the unique opportunity to camp on the beach. The turquoise waters and warm sand create the perfect atmosphere to fall asleep while gazing at the … Continue reading Lucky Bay
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Champagne Beach Champagne Beach in Vanatu offers a picture-perfect image of electric-teal water and snowflake-white sand. The foliage surrounding the beach and the underwater volcanic activity has created a champagne-shaped piece of land, with frothy water bubbling about during low tide. The coral reef off the island is home to fish and sea turtles alike, … Continue reading Champagne Beach
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Wineglass Bay Wineglass Bay is hidden in the Freycinet Peninsula on the east coast of Tasmania. Continuously ranked one of the top ten beaches in the world, the two and a half hour hike to this beach will leave you breathless and blown away by the exquisite landscape this park offers. Relax on the near-empty … Continue reading Wineglass Bay
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Tikehau Beach In the treasure trove of beaches that is French Polynesia, Tikehau Beach is without a doubt one of the crowning jewels. This stretch of sea possesses a myriad of attractions including translucent sand, calm water perfect for diving and snorkeling, and palm trees galore! Brave the current and go kayaking to see marine … Continue reading Tikehau atoll
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Fakarava Beach Situated on the “Island of Dreams” in French Polynesia, Fakarava Beach boasts pristine sand and crystal-clear water. This beach has one of the best snorkeling locations in the world and serves as a safe haven to hundreds of rare fish, sharks, and marine animals. With a consistently warm temperature of about 28 degrees … Continue reading Fakarava Beach
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Piha Beach Piha Beach is one of New Zealand’s most famous pieces of land. It offers incredible surfing and breathtaking views. Secluded from most of society, the beach’s white sand is peppered with black iron from a past volcanic eruption, while the deep-blue water offers a world of exploration just off the shore. Hike to … Continue reading Piha Beach
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Long Beach Laying on Long Beach Palau in Micronesia, Koror during low-tide is like relaxing on your own private island. The sand looks and feels like white velvet and the crystal-clear ocean provides excellent visibility. If you venture into the water, be prepared to see turtles, colorful fish, and exotic coral. Adventure-lovers will be in … Continue reading Long Beach
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Binalong Bay Snuggled into the Bay of Fires Conservation area on the island of Tasmania, Binalong Bay offers a rainbow of colors. From the fire-licked rocks that border the bay, to the angelically white sand, your senses will be overwhelmed with beauty. The ocean’s protected waters are host to many of the world’s unique marine … Continue reading Binalong Bay
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Blue Lagoon As your seaplane hovers above Nacula Island, you will be granted your first sight of Blue Lagoon Beach. The image of effervescent water brushing against an opaque shoreline is made even more beautiful when you compare it to the emerald-green mountains holding it in place. Nacula Island is every adventurer’s dream, offering challenging … Continue reading Blue lagoon
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Hamelin Bay Hamelin Bay in Western Australia offers a unique experience that is unheard of at most beaches. While the pearly-white sand and warm ocean water will tempt you to swim and relax, the most alluring characteristic of this beach is the wildlife. Massive stingrays are known to swim to shore and entertain beachgoers. Marine-life … Continue reading Hamelin Bay Beach
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Indian Head Indian Head on Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia is home to immaculate scenery and endless opportunities for adventure. This gorgeous stretch of white sand and calm water invites tourists to catch up on rest and relaxation any time of the year. However, if you are interested in exploration, this island was made for you. … Continue reading Indian Head
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Byron Bay Juxtaposed against steep cliffs and dark-green shrubs, Byron Bay in New South Wales lures swimmers and surfers alike. Surfers can enjoy the rich-blue water, frothing at the mouth while they glide across each wave, while swimmers can keep their eyes peeled for dolphins. Take advantage of being in Australia’s easternmost city by waking … Continue reading Byron Bay
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Aitutaki Lagoon Beach With an average water temperature of 26 degrees Celsius, there is never a bad time to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Aitutaki Lagoon Beach in the Cook Islands. Thousands of fish roam the waters of this lagoon and the water’s visibility provides snorkelers the perfect opportunity to see them. It has … Continue reading Aitutaki Lagoon Beach
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Hot Water Beach Imagine soaking in hot, natural springs on a beach in the middle of the Pacific Ocean while watching the sunset. It sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Well, at Hot Water Beach in Coromandel, New Zealand, you can do just that. Rent a shovel and start digging either two hours … Continue reading Hot Water Beach
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Muriwai Beach The dark cliffs, black sand and bright-blue water that makeup Muriwai Beach in Auckland, New Zealand create a dramatic atmosphere for beachgoers. The beach plays host to strong waves fit for swimming or surfing, gorgeous hiking trails and comfortable temperatures all year-round. Depart the beach to hike up the cliffs and see a … Continue reading Muriwai Beach
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Fanning Island Fanning Island in the Pacific Ocean has two bodies of water, the sea and the famous lagoon centered in the middle of the island. Go diving in the serene lagoon that is home to dozens of protected marine species or relaxes on the beach with a book in hand, enjoying an uninterrupted view … Continue reading Fanning Island
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Cathedral Cove Cathedral Cove lives up to its ethereal name. The natural beauty this beach has sustained over the years is a clear indication of just how off the beaten path this beach is! Cathedral Cove is tucked away in its own niche paradise, only accessible by hike, kayak or boat. With ash-grey rocks creating … Continue reading Cathedral Cove
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Fingal Bay Fingal Bay is in New South Wales in Australia’s Tomaree National Park. This crescent-shaped beach is a quaint bay near an incredibly small, picturesque town. With ice-blue water, white sand and a gentle tide rocking the water back and forth, it is easy to fall in love with this paradise. Explore the ancient … Continue reading Fingal Bay
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Cape Tribulation With thick green vines intertwined in a web amongst the trees, the Daintree Rainforest is akin o Tarzan’s dream house. The oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree is an extraordinary site to see all on its own. However, it is made immensely more immaculate when the trees part ways and your eyes … Continue reading Cape Tribulation
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Kadavu Island Kadavu Island in Fiji is home to some of the best snorkeling, hiking, and sea-kayaking in the Pacific Ocean. One of the biggest coral reefs in the world, the Great Astroblade Reef possesses sea creatures galore, ancient shipwrecks, and endless coral gardens. The rainforest offers excellent paths for hiking and gorgeous, 360-degree views. … Continue reading Kadavu Island
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Koekohe Beach Koekohe Beach in Otago is one of the most famous and unique beaches in the world. Known for their Moeraki Boulders, this beach has tan sand and ocean water that looks like cotton candy, reflecting the gorgeous conglomerate of colors from the sky above. The boulders are a mix of cyan blue, bright … Continue reading Koekohe Beach
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Ofu Island Tiffany blue water glides over the sand on Ofu Island, Tonga. This remote island offers dense rainforests to hike through and a calm, picturesque beach. Most visitors to this island are backpackers who live for nights spent under the stars. The terrain is easy to navigate and the protected water is mellow and … Continue reading Ofu Island
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Ninety Mile Beach Ninety Mile beach is on the western coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Many have said it possesses the “best left hand surf breaks in the world.” But surfing isn’t all this beach has to offer. This seemingly never-ending strip of soft, white sand cloaked in frothy, white waves is stunningly beautiful. … Continue reading Ninety Mile Beach
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Hanatekhuua Beach The view of Hanatekhuua Beach from above is akin to the space shuttle images of Earth, brilliant blue water interrupted only by emerald green gems of land. This island was formed from millions of years of volcanic eruption and to this day only has about three-thousand residents who call it home. The clear … Continue reading Hanatekuua Beach
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Temae Beach Temae Beach in French Polynesia is what dreams are made of. The multi-hued blue ocean is clear enough to see straight to the bottom and the coral reef is a bustling, rainbow home to thousands of sea creatures. Lay down in the sand and enjoy the heat as it hugs and tans you. … Continue reading Temae Beach
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Natadola Beach Bronze sand blends gracefully into the teal waters of Natadola Beach in Fiji. Bodyboarding and surfing at this beach are common, but there is plenty of space to share in case you want a relaxing swim. Looking straight out of a postcard, there is horseback riding offered directly on the beach which is … Continue reading Natadola Beach
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Kaiteriteri Beach Kaiteriteri Beach in New Zealand is the launching point for countless expeditions into Tasman National Park. The circular cove is sheltered from crackling waves and is bathed in emerald green water. The golden sand is an excellent place for kids to build sand castles while adults enjoy a picnic with a view. Take … Continue reading Kaiteriteri Beach
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Tumon Beach With massive boulders peppering the white sand, and green vegetation brushing against the shore, Tumon Beach in Guam is a beautiful sight. The water is extremely shallow, reaching about a four-foot maximum. This allows for children of all ages to safely play in the water and creates excellent snorkeling conditions. The calm water … Continue reading Tumon Beach
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Anaho Beach Anaho Beach in Nuku Hiva boasts brilliant colors whose bold shades will catch your eyes and leave you breathless. Lazy palm trees border the water along this beach, casting shadows on the teal water. The golden sand begs you to relax in the sun while the sun bronzes you and the sound of … Continue reading Anaho Beach
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Rarotonga Beach Rarotonga Beach offers pristine waves, angel-white sand, and a lush forest. Dive into sky blue water and explore the colonies of fish, turtles and manta rays in the area. Hike through the gorgeous greenery and enjoy the view from a lookout they call The Needle. You are also encouraged to take a kayak … Continue reading Rarotonga Beach
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Cape Peron Cape Peron National Park is where the desert meets the sea—from the blood red pindan sands of the desert stepping down to the pristine and untouched cream sands that spill into the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean. Around 30,000 humpback whales enjoy living in Western Australia, and Exmouth Gulf is one of … Continue reading Cape Peron
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Snapper Rocks Beach Walking down the grassy, electric-green hill to Snapper Rocks Beach, you will have an excellent view of the horizon. The sky appears to melt into the ocean and the brilliant blue barrels crashing onto the beach summon all surfers near and far to jump in. Snapper Rocks Beach in Australia is home … Continue reading Snapper Rocks Beach
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Slaughter Bay Slaughter Bay on Norfolk Island is a beautiful balance between forest-green woods and sparkling blue oceans. The crescent-shaped bay is home to still water that is consistently warm and inviting to beachgoers yearound. Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the beach or go for an easy hike through the trees along the shoreline. Bring … Continue reading Slaughter Bay
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Recherche Archipelago Return to your childhood daydream by entering a Dr. Seuss-like world at the Pink Beach in Recherche Archipelago. From above, this lake looks like a massive piece of bubblegum. With a small strip of white sand and forest separating the lake and the ocean, this beach allows you a glimpse at one of … Continue reading Recherche Archipelago
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Savusavu Savusavu Beach in Vanua Levu, Fiji looks like heaven on Earth. With massive mountains covered in lush forest jutting out of the ground, and stunning teal water gripping the shores, Savusavu Beach is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Enjoy some of the world’s best scuba diving or hiking terrain while getting in an awesome … Continue reading Savusavu
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Lalomanu Beach Lalomanu Beach on Upolu Island, Samoa is what dreams are made of. The most pristine beach on the island, the white sand, and dazzling blue water meet to form a perfect shoreline. Looking out at the water, you can see that the lagoons and first several meters of the ocean is completely translucent, … Continue reading Lalomanu Beach
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Tropical Beach Tropical Beach on the Solomon Islands is the perfect beach retreat to take in order to reconnect with nature. With thousands of palm trees peppering the island and multi-hued blue water brushing against the sand, it is no wonder people flock to this stretch of sand every year. Take a glass-bottom boat out … Continue reading Tropical Beach
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Fatu Ma Futi Beach Shaped by the seas and molded by an ancient love story, Fatu Ma Futi Beach in the American Somoa brings romance alive in the form of a flawless tropical paradise. As legend tells it, two lovers were traveling amongst the islands hundreds of years ago. When the water became choppy, their … Continue reading Fatu Ma Futi beach
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Castaway Island Castaway Island, also known as Qalito Island, in Fiji is just as picturesque as it sounds. This quaint island only stretches 170 acres across. It is covered in flourishing forests, velvety sand, and a seemingly empty beach. This island is also surrounded by vibrant coral reefs which give you an excellent opportunity to … Continue reading Castaway Island
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Wharariki Beach From sand dunes to horseback rides, Wharrariki Beach on the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island is an adventure-filled nirvana. Accessible only if you are willing to walk at least twenty minutes outside of the nearest city, this beach’s main inhabitants are adorable sea lions. Trek through the caves in search of … Continue reading Wharariki Beach
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Bigge Island Beach Cerulean blue waves crash against the light brown cliffs on Bigge Island in Western Australia. On the north side of the island is Bigge Island Beach, Australia. This beach is nestled into a nook bordered by rocks on each side, protecting it from major swells. The beach is half sand, half rock, … Continue reading Bigge Island
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Majuro Atoll Majuro Atoll beach sits amongst the hundreds of gorgeous, tiny islands in the Pacific Ocean. A slender snake of coral reefs and sand, this islet is almost entirely untouched, with very few local inhabitants. The bright blue water sparkles in the sunshine and washes up against white, velvet sand. You can spend your … Continue reading Majuro Atoll
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Tetiaroa Atoll Tetiaroa Atoll Beach in French Polynesia is a square patch of land surrounded by rich-blue ocean. One of many islands in French Polynesia, Tetiaroa Atoll is close to Papeete and offers its own version of tropical paradise. Explore the lagoon in the middle of the island or relax on the beach, staring at … Continue reading Tetiaroa atoll
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Panasia Island Beach Turquoise waves wash up on the white sand of Panasia Island Beach at a dreamlike pace. Considered the most beautiful beach in Papua New Guinea, this stretch of sand is liken to a postcard. Washed ashore long ago, ancient remains of boats can be found lounging on the sand. Closer to the … Continue reading Panasia Island Beach
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Denarau Island Denarau Island off the coast of Fiji is one of the lesser-known gems of the Pacific Ocean. With lush vegetation and endless white sand, there is plenty of opportunities to comfortably relax or explore for hours. The translucent seawater is perfect for snorkeling and peering at the abundance of colors in the coral … Continue reading Denarau Island
