When you think about a holiday in Australia, one of the first images that spring to mind is of the quintessential Australian day at the beach. Expansive stretches of sand, the rolling surf and relaxing under an umbrella in the sun. We are lucky enough to boast more than 10,000 beaches in ‘the land down under’, so whether they’re great to surf at, picturesque and a little secluded, or perfect for a beach day with the kids, we’ve made it our mission to round up the best of the best.
Just under a two hour drive from your accommodation in Launceston you will discover the breathtaking beauty that is Wineglass Bay. Located within the Freycinet National Park this is a truly exquisite spot. Picturesque and perfectly secluded, this isn’t a place you’ll find surfers gliding down waves or people topping up their summer tan. This arc of shimmering sand is perfect for a relaxing trip to the beach, enjoying a stroll along the shore, fossicking for shells or indulging in a beach picnic. To truly make a day of it, embark on a Wineglass Bay Cruise, where you’ll be treated to a lunch of local delicacies and an up close view of the beautiful scenery and wildlife surrounding the bay.
Wineglass Bay - photo credit: Tourism Tasmania & Supplied Courtesy of Wineglass Bay Cruises
In the beautiful tropical north Queensland town of Port Douglas, you will discover the pristine sandy stretch of Four Mile Beach. As the name suggests, this is four miles of absolute bliss. Fringed by palm trees the arc of sand stretches as far as the eye can see. To the northern end, you can explore the headland and the rockpools created from the tide. The kids will be fascinated by the little crabs scuttling around. The temperate water is heavenly to swim in, however at certain times of the year be sure to stick to the stinger nets to avoid any nasty surprises!
Four Mile Beach - photo credit - Tourism and Events Queensland
Just a few minutes’ walk from great Coolangatta accommodation is Rainbow Bay beach. A great southern Queensland beach it is perfect for both families and surfers alike. The beach is patrolled year round with areas designated for safe swimming. At high tide the surf is quite small and provides ideal swimming conditions. One of the biggest drawcards, Rainbow Bay beach is close by to Coolangatta’s main street, Marine Parade, so there are great family friendly lunch (and ice cream) spots nearby.
Rainbow Bay - credit: aloys_dharambure
Just south of Lorne, at Point Roadknight, you’ll find the ideal family friendly beach. With surf that is small throughout the summer months, it is the perfect Victorian beach to see how the kids go learning to surf. The beach kiosk will bring about a feeling of summer holiday nostalgia, and the little ones will love getting a sausage roll or icy pole after tiring themselves out in the waves all day. With just a 30 minute drive back to your hotel in Lorne, it is the ideal distance for a day trip.
Point Roadknight - photo credit: Philip N Young