No two beaches are the same. Some are all quiet coves and gentle waves. Others are packed with watersports, family-friendly resorts, and bustling beachfronts. Whatever your idea of a perfect beach day looks like, there's a stretch of sand to match.
The Paradise Guide helps you find a beach destination that fits the way you travel. Based on your preferences, budgets and travel plans, we’ll recommend places that match what you’re looking for.
Australia’s best beaches
Australia’s coastline is packed with beaches that suit every kind of trip, from easy-going surf spots to remote stretches of island sand. Whether you’re looking for calm swimming, handy facilities or a beach day close to nature, these are three standout places to start.
Our data has analysed a breadth of beaches across Australia against a series of metrics from average air and sea temperature to sun lounger availability and reviews, to determine which are the best to visit.
1. Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast, Australia
Mooloolaba Beach is a favourite on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, offering a wide stretch of sand and generally calm conditions for swimming, surfing and paddleboarding. Just a 14 minute journey from Sunshine Coast Airport, the nearby esplanade is lined with cafés, restaurants and shops, while the beach has year-round lifeguard patrols, toilets, showers and picnic areas. Boasting a 4.8-star review on Tripadvisor, average peak temperatures of around 23.5°C and around ten months of sunshine each year, it's a fantastic place for a relaxed day by the sea.
2. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, Australia
Whitehaven Beach stretches for seven kilometres along Whitsunday Island and is known for its brilliant white silica sand and clear blue water. Accessible by boat, seaplane or helicopter, it's a popular spot for swimming, walking and soaking up the views. Facilities are limited to help preserve the surrounding national park, but visitors will find picnic areas, toilets and walking tracks, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring this unspoilt stretch of coastline. Not only this, but with a perfect 5-star rating on TripAdvisor and year-round sunshiner, it’s one of Australia’s most incredible beaches.
3. Palm Cove Beach, Cairns, Australia
Palm Cove Beach is a relaxed tropical spot just north of Cairns, framed by palm trees and calm Coral Sea views. The beachfront esplanade is lined with cafés, restaurants and places to stay, while nearby facilities include picnic areas, toilets, showers and a swimming enclosure during stinger season. Average peak temperatures of 27.5°C and pleasantly warm sea temperatures of around 25.3°C make it a great choice for a slower beach day, with easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
The World’s most talked-about beaches
Looking for your next beach escape? We analysed reviews, search data and ratings to reveal the beaches travellers are searching for and talking about around the world.
1. Palm Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
Palm Beach is the kind of Caribbean escape many travellers dream about. Expect year-round sunshine, warm seas and a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for switching off. Located near Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, this famous stretch of coastline combines postcard-worthy scenery with everything you need for a stress-free beach holiday. Restaurants, beach bars, water sports and sun loungers are all within easy reach, making it easy to spend an entire day by the sea. With consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, Palm Beach is as good for winter sun as it is for a summer getaway. It’s no surprise that Palm Beach attracts more than half a million global Google searches each month, thanks to its idyllic Caribbean setting.
2. La Jolla Cove, California, USA
Looking for something a little different? La Jolla Cove offers dramatic coastal scenery alongside some of California’s clearest waters. Unlike traditional sandy beaches, this small rocky cove is known for its emerald-green sea, rugged coastline and incredible marine life. It’s a favourite spot for snorkelling, kayaking and spotting sea lions, all just a short drive from San Diego. Almost 14,000 reviews result in a 4.6 review rating, showing how this cove is a firm favourite with visitors. While you won’t find rows of sun loungers here, you will find spectacular views and a beach experience that feels uniquely Californian.
3. Siesta Key Beach, Florida, USA
Siesta Key Beach is well-known for its fine white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it one of Florida’s most iconic beach destinations. Just a short drive from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, this Gulf Coast beach offers a great mix of natural beauty and excellent facilities. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the soft, powdery sand, experience some adrenaline with some water sports or enjoy a meal overlooking the sea, everything you need is within easy reach. With a 4.7 average review rating on TripAdvisor, and 135,000 global Google searches every month, we can see exactly why Siesta Key Beach is one of Florida’s most sought-after escapes.
The World’s most underrated beaches
Looking for a beach that's a little off the beaten path? These lesser-known spots may not attract the same volume of Google searches or reviews as the world's most famous shores, but they're still highly rated by travellers. If peace, space and stunning scenery are high on your wishlist, these beaches are a great place to start.
1. Embleton Bay, Northumberland, United Kingdom
Wild, windswept and wonderfully uncrowded, Embleton Bay is proof that some of the UK’s best beaches are hiding in plain sight. Backed by rolling dunes and overlooked by the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, this hidden gem with a long stretch of golden sand feels a world away from nearby busier seaside hotspots such as Alnmouth and Blyth Beach. Visit between June and September for the best chance of sunshine and coastal walks with a view.
2. Rendezvous Bay, Montserrat
Getting here takes a little more effort, and that's exactly why it’s a hidden gem. Accessible only by boat or hike, Rendezvous Bay rewards travellers with pristine white sand, clear azure water and a sense of complete escape. With no rows of sun loungers or bustling beach bars, it's the kind of place where the soundtrack is simply the sea.
3. Castlerock Beach, Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Along Northern Ireland’s dramatic Causeway Coast, Castlerock Beach offers a kilometre of golden sand backed by sweeping views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Whether you're walking the shoreline or simply taking in the Atlantic views, it's an easy reminder that some of the best beach days happen away from the spotlight.
Beach day essentials
A little planning can make the difference between a good beach day and a great one. Before you head for the coast, make sure you've got the basics covered.
Pack for the day ahead
A few essentials can make all the difference. Pack sunscreen, swimwear, practical clothing and plenty of water to stay comfortable throughout the day. If you're heading to a quieter or more remote beach, bring snacks or a picnic, as food options may be limited.
A hat, beach umbrella or other sun shade is also worth packing for a break from the midday heat. It's a good idea to carry both a card and a little cash too, as smaller cafés, beach bars and local vendors don't always accept every payment method.
Check local rules before you go
Every beach is different. Some have restrictions on pets, water sports, barbecues or protected wildlife areas. Taking a few minutes to check local guidelines before you arrive can help you avoid surprises and make sure you're respecting the destination you're visiting.
Be prepared for the weather
Even the sunniest beach destinations can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you travel and keep an eye on local conditions, especially if you're planning to swim, surf or spend a full day outdoors.
Leave only footprints
Help keep beaches beautiful for future travellers by taking your rubbish with you, using designated facilities and following any conservation measures in place.
Make your beach trip even smoother
Consider hiring a car
Some of the world's best beaches are a little off the beaten path. If you're planning to visit a more remote stretch of coastline, hiring a car can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden spots along the way.
Find the right place to stay
Whether you're looking for a beachfront resort, a cosy guesthouse or a budget-friendly stay, Skyscanner stays makes it easy to compare options and find accommodation that fits your trip.
Track prices before you book
A beach getaway doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Set up a Skyscanner Price Alert to track fares for your chosen route, or save flights to a list so you can check back whenever you like. Using the Skyscanner app? Keep an eye on DROPS to spot flights that have recently fallen in price. We'll let you know when fares change, so you can book when the price is right.
Found your favourite? Search for flights, hotels and car hire with Skyscanner and start planning your beach getaway.
