There's nothing quite like a refreshing ocean dip on a sweltering summer’s day. A cold shower and a wet towel do the job, but submerging your body in crystal-clear waters just hits different. Luckily, Australia is brimming with breathtaking beaches and coastal walks perfect for a cool-down – and we’re not just talking about Bondi Beach or Surfers Paradise. Beyond these famous sandy spots lie countless pristine, uncrowded gems that locals have been quietly keeping to themselves. And now, we’re ready to spill their secrets.
In order to find these hidden coastal gems, the team at BoatBooker scoured Google Maps data for terms like ‘secluded beaches’, ‘hidden beaches’ and ‘quiet beaches’ with less than 100 reviews. From there, they ranked each spot based on its overall rating, spotlighting the best off-the-radar coastal spots.
Located 35 minutes from the swarming summer crowds in Byron Bay, Norries Headland Boardwalk tops the list as Australia’s top hidden coastal gem. At the time of the research, it boasted a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of five from 79 reviews – though we expect that number won’t stay under 100 for long. This beautiful 800-metre return walk is the only non-beach spot on the list, but don’t worry – it leads to Cabarita Beach, where you can enjoy a post-walk dip.
South Australia has long lingered in the shadow of Australia’s east coast, but it emerges as a hidden gem powerhouse, boasting three beaches in the top ten. Rapid Bay and Locks Well Beach followed closely as the next two best-kept secret coastal spots, both earning a stellar 4.9 out of five from 69 and 50 reviews. If you’re lucky, you might just rock up and have these beaches all to yourself.
Queensland is home to more hidden coastal gems than any other state or territory, with many of them clustered in the stunning Sunshine Coast. From Peregian and Teewah Beach to Cooloola and Main Beach, there’s no shortage of serene spots to roll out your towel and soak up the peace and quiet. You can discover more hidden coastal spots here or see our round-up below.
The top 10 hidden coastal spots in Australia
- Norries Headland Boardwalk, Cabarita Beach, NSW
- Rapid Bay Beach, SA
- Locks Well Beach, SA
- Woodgate Beach, QLD
- Peregian Beach, QLD
- Shelly Beach, NSW
- Teewah Beach, QLD
- Cooloola Beach, QLD
- Tugun Beach, QLD
- Main Beach, QLD and Sellicks Beach, SA