Looking for the 10 Best Beaches in Queensland? For Families? For Surfers? Or a romantic getaway for couples? World-renowned for its stunning coastline, Queensland offers diverse beaches that cater to families, couples, and keen surfers. From tranquil bays to heart-pumping waves, here’s our pick of the 10 best beaches in Queensland that you should consider for your next beach adventure.
# 1. Noosa Main Beach – Best for Families
Noosa Main Beach is always on a ‘best beaches’ list—whether in Australia or internationally. It’s a family-friendly paradise located in the heart of Noosa Heads. The north-facing beach, with calm waters, is ideal for sandcastle-building and swimming with kids.
Why we love it: The beach is patrolled year-round, ensuring safety for families. You can enjoy activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and even surfing lessons. A thong’s throw away, Hastings Street is lined with cafes and boutiques, perfect for a post-beach breakfast or lunch or shopping spree.
Things to Do: For some of Australia’s most epic coastline views, explore Noosa National Park via the scenic boardwalk, enjoy a picnic at Noosa Woods, or relax at the surf club with a cold drink while watching surfers catch waves at First Point.
More Info: Visit Noosa
#2. Burleigh Heads Beach – Best for long, lazy afternoons
Burleigh Heads Beach is a legendary Gold Coast spot known for its vibrant ambience and spectacular outlook. It’s the total package for families, couples, or groups to spend an entire day enjoying the sun, surfing, and Burleigh Hill.
Why It’s Great: The beach features gentle waves suitable for swimming and learning to surf. There are also plenty of beachside picnic areas and playgrounds nearby to keep kids entertained. Nothing beats picking up fish and chips from Fishmongers along with a chilled glass of wine on Burleigh Hill at sunset.
Things to Do: Visit Burleigh Head National Park for stunning coastal walks, enjoy craft beers at Burleigh Brewing Company, or take all the family to the local markets.
More Info: Explore Burleigh Heads
#3. Coolum Beach – Best for Surfing
Coolum Beach combines the quintessential Aussie beach with something for all ages and excellent surf conditions.
Why It’s Great: With soft, golden sand and clear waters, Coolum is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Families can enjoy beach cricket or lazing in the sun while surfers can take advantage of consistent waves.
Things to Do: Climb Mount Coolum for breathtaking views of the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland, take surfing lessons at Coolum Surf School, or relax at one of the many cafés lining the beachfront.
More Info: Visit Sunshine Coast
#4. Palm Cove – Best for Couples
What ten best beaches in Queensland list could be complete without Palm Cove? Only twenty-five minutes north of Cairns, Palm Cove is an idyllic destination known for its aura of romance and postcard-perfect palm-fringed beach.
Why It’s Great: The tranquil waters and luxurious hotels and resorts make it perfect for couples looking to unwind. Enjoy sunset strolls along the beach or indulgent spa treatments at nearby resorts.
Things to Do: Dine at beachfront restaurants, explore nearby rainforest trails, or take a romantic cruise on the Coral Sea.
More Info: Palm Cove Australia
#5. Tallebudgera Creek – Best for young families
Tallebudgera Creek offers a unique blend of river and ocean experiences, making it ideal for families seeking calm waters.
Why It’s Great: The creek features shallow waters perfect for young children and is surrounded by both rugged bush and lush parklands. It’s great for picnics, walks or kayaking.
Things to Do: Enjoy a nature walk through Burleigh National Park or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding in the creek’s calm waters.
More Info: Gold Coast Tourist Parks
#6. Snapper Rocks – Best for Surfing
Snapper Rocks is famed among surfers as one of the world’s premier surfing destinations.
Why It’s Great: Known for its powerful waves and consistent swells, Snapper Rocks attracts surfers from around the globe. It also hosts various surfing competitions throughout the year.
Things to Do: Watch professional surfers tackle the waves or take surfing lessons if you’re feeling adventurous!
More Info: Snapper Rocks
#7. Whitehaven Beach – Endless views and the whitest sand
Located in the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.
Why It’s Great: Sink your toes into pristine silica sand and turquoise waters, bring a picnic, or sail to the nearby islands. Whitehaven’s unsurpassed beauty is more than breathtaking—it’s life-changing.
Things to Do: Take a Red Cat Adventure tour or go old-school and ride in style with Whitsunday Hot Rod Tours.
More Info: Whitehaven Beach
#8. Nudey Beach – Best for Snorkelling and Relaxation
Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island was named Australia’s Best Beach in 2018 for its sparkling waters and extraordinary natural wonders.
Why It’s Great: This secluded beach offers excellent snorkelling opportunities among coral reefs teeming with fish. Its picturesque setting makes it perfect for a relaxing day away from crowds.
Things to Do: Pack a picnic or visit Foxy’s Bar & Grill nearby after your snorkelling adventure.
More Info: Visit Fitzroy Island
#9. Hamilton Island’s Beaches – something for everyone
Hamilton Island boasts several stunning beaches that are perfect for family outings.
Why It’s Great: With velvet-soft sand and sapphire water, these beaches offer plenty of water sports like snorkelling, sailing, SUP and swimming—ideal for keeping kids entertained.
Things to Do: Explore the island via golf cart rentals, or you can hike to scenic viewpoints. 70% of the island is National Park, filled with astonishing fauna and flora.
More Info: Hamilton Island
#10. Heart Reef Whitsundays – Best Sightseeing Spot
While not a traditional beach, Heart Reef is a unique coral formation that should not be missed when visiting Queensland.
Why It’s Great: Its unique heart shape makes it a romantic spot best viewed from above—perfect for couples looking to create unforgettable memories together or a perfect proposal.
Things to Do: Take a scenic flight over Heart Reef or enjoy a boat tour through the Whitsunday Islands to see this natural wonder up close.
More Info: Zig Zag Whitsundays
The 10 Best Beaches in Queensland. Do you agree? What are your favourites, and did we miss any? Whether you’re planning a fun family holiday filled with non-stop activities or a romantic escape, the 10 best beaches in Queensland offer something special for everyone. From thrilling to serene, these ten beaches promise memories for a lifetime.
