Australia’s Most Stunning White Sand Beaches Revealed

Where crystal-clear waters meet powder-soft shores in paradise.

Australia is blessed with some of the world’s most breathtaking white sand beaches, where powder-soft shores meet crystal-clear waters in a match made in paradise. Whether you’re dreaming of lazy beach days or chasing postcard-perfect views, these stunning spots promise a slice of heaven. Read on to discover the most jaw-dropping white sand beaches across the country – some famous, some hidden gems, all unforgettable.

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1. Lucky Bay, WA

kangaroo in Lucky Bay — Lucky Bay is not just known for its powdery white sand, but also for the kangaroos. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Located within Cape Le Grand National Park near Esperance in Western Australia, Lucky Bay is renowned for its immaculate white sand beaches and vibrant turquoise waters. In 2017, scientific assessments confirmed Lucky Bay as having the whitest sand in Australia , surpassing other contenders. Adding to its charm, kangaroos are often seen lounging on the beach, providing unique photo opportunities. Whether you’re visiting for a swim or a sunset picnic, Lucky Bay promises an experience unlike any other.

2. Hyams Beach, NSW

Situated in Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach has long been celebrated for its dazzling white sands and clear waters. While it no longer claims the official title of the whitest sand, its beauty is undeniable. This serene haven is ideal for families, with calm waters perfect for paddling and snorkelling. Its proximity to Sydney makes it a convenient getaway for those craving an escape to coastal perfection.

3. Whitehaven Beach, Qld

Stretching over seven kilometres on Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach is famed for its 98 per cent silica sands and stunning azure waters. This ecological wonder is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, offering untouched beauty and a commitment to sustainability. Accessible by boat, seaplane or helicopter, it’s a bucket-list destination for anyone seeking tropical tranquillity. Hill Inlet, at the northern end of the beach, is particularly famous for its swirling patterns of sand and sea.

4. Hellfire Bay, WA

Another gem in Cape Le Grand National Park, Hellfire Bay boasts brilliant white sands framed by granite headlands. This secluded spot is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet away from busier beaches. Calm, crystal-clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling. Bring a picnic and soak in the serenity of one of WA’s most stunning hidden treasures.

5. Bromby Islands, NT

Arnhem Land white sand beach — The beach’s seclusion makes it that much more desirable. (Image: Getty Images/Boloso)

Located in Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, the Bromby Islands are a secluded gem surrounded by pristine white sands and azure waters. Accessible only with a permit or through guided tours, this remote beach is as culturally rich as it is beautiful. With deep ties to the local Yolŋu people, visitors can explore its serene shores while learning about its cultural significance. The rich marine biodiversity around the island also makes it a haven for snorkelling and fishing enthusiasts.

6. Tallebudgera Creek Beach, Qld

Nestled between Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach, Tallebudgera Creek Beach is a beloved spot for families. Its calm, turquoise waters and fine white sand create an idyllic setting for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The nearby parklands offer shaded picnic spots and walking trails, making it a perfect day trip destination on the Gold Coast.

7. Squeaky Beach, Vic

Squeaky Beach sand — Squeaky Beach has rounded quartz sand that squeaks when you walk on it. (Image: Getty Images/Getty Stokaji)

Located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Squeaky Beach is famed for its unique rounded quartz sand grains that ‘squeak’ underfoot. Beyond the novelty of its sand, the beach offers stunning views of granite boulders and a serene coastal landscape. It’s a popular stop for hikers exploring the Prom and provides excellent swimming conditions during summer.

8. Boat Harbour Beach, Tas

Situated on Tasmania’s northwest coast, Boat Harbour Beach combines pristine white sands with the island’s signature rugged beauty. Calm, clear waters make it a favourite spot for swimming and snorkelling, while the tranquil ambience attracts visitors seeking a peaceful escape. Nearby cafes and walking trails add to its charm, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

9. Cossies Beach, Cocos Keeling Islands

Named after former Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Cossies Beach is a slice of paradise located on Direction Island in the far-flung Cocos Keeling Islands. Its exquisite white sands and clear turquoise waters are a magnet for those seeking an unspoiled tropical retreat. With vibrant coral reefs just offshore, it’s a snorkeller’s dream. Accessible by ferry twice a week, it’s worth the journey for the ultimate island experience.

10. Vivonne Bay, SA

On Kangaroo Island, Vivonne Bay is a stunning stretch of white sand bordered by calm, turquoise waters. Known for its tranquil beauty, it’s perfect for swimming, fishing and sunbathing. The sand dunes nearby offer a thrilling opportunity for sandboarding, while the rich wildlife adds to the allure of this South Australian gem.

11. Turquoise Bay, WA

Located near Exmouth in the Ningaloo Marine Park, Turquoise Bay is a snorkeller’s paradise. Its Drift Snorkel experience, where you can float with the current over vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, is world-famous. The beach itself features powdery white sand and impossibly clear waters, making it a perfect spot to relax after exploring the underwater wonders.

Insider tips for your white sand adventure

Timing is everything: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Stay sun-safe: Australia’s sun is fierce – pack sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water.

Snorkel and explore: Many of these beaches offer incredible underwater experiences just offshore, so don’t forget your gear.

Respect nature: These pristine beaches are treasures – leave only footprints and take only photos.

What’s your favourite white sand beach? Share your picks in the comments below.

Spend a few days visiting the real-life Central Australian locations that inspired the new film everyone is talking about, and discover why Alice Springs is such an important part of Australian culture.

In the credits of the new Australian film Kangaroo , the first name under ‘cast’ should read ‘The Northern Territory ’. Not only is Alice Springs (and the surrounding landscape) integral to the movie itself, but the spiritual heart of Australia and its local Indigenous owners also inform the look and feel of every frame, explains Producer Trisha Morton-Thomas of Brindle Films, who also plays Charlie’s grandmother Gwennie.

“By setting Kangaroo in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the film embraces how visible Aboriginal people are here, and the living Aboriginal culture that is woven through this community,” she explains.

still from kangarro film — See *Kangaroo*, then visit the real-life filming locations.

And while shooting in such a sacred part of the Northern Territory required extra planning, it was something the cast and crew were highly invested in.

“There are incredibly significant sacred sites and places of deep cultural stories in the area, that at times are very gender-specific, which we’ve kept out of the production,” she explains. “Even if overhead drone footage captures a sacred site that isn’t meant to be seen by other people outside of that clan, we’ve made sure to omit it from the film.”

If Kangaroo piqued your interest in a Central Australian holiday, we don’t blame you. Read on to discover eight places featured in the movie that you can visit in real life – and get planning. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat.

1. Alice Springs/ Mparntwe

artist at Many Hands Art Centre — Visit the galleries of Alice Springs, like Many Hands Art Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr/ Many Hands Art Centre)

The red and dusty streets of the film’s fictional town of Silvergum were filmed on the outskirts of Alice Springs. And, while the art gallery featured in the film is fictional, Alice Springs is a hub of creativity. See the work of local artists at the Araluen Art Centre , Yubu Napa Art Gallery , Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre and the famous Tjanpi Desert Weavers .

2. The Kangaroo Sanctuary & Kangaroo Rescue Centre

The Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs, the inspiration for the Kangaroo move — Visit the movie’s inspiration at Kangaroo Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/ Kangaroo Sanctuary)

Kangaroo was inspired by the journey of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, who founded the now world-renowned Kangaroo Sanctuary based in Alice Springs. For lead actor, Aussie Ryan Corr, the animals were central to the movie, alongside the landscapes.

“The animals in this story were a real calling point for me,” he explains. “What this story tries to tell us about the connection between humans and animals is beautiful.”

To gain a real insight into the fauna and flora of the Red Centre, you can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary on a sunset tour, where you might even get the chance to hold a baby kangaroo.

3. Ormiston Gorge

woman walking along the edge of Ormiston Gorge near alice springs — Take a dip in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/ @domandjesso)

The film captures the raw beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known in the Arrernte language as Tjoritja. This national park is rich in Indigenous culture and stark geological wonders.

Only a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs, Tjoritja offers visitors the chance to camp, hike and swim among ancient landscapes (most attractions are less than a three-hour drive away).

Ormiston Gorge , a cooling oasis in among the red desert sands, is one of the most popular destinations, no doubt because of the permanent swimming hole and towering red cliffs. From here, visitors can also embark on the beautiful Ormiston Pound Walk and the shorter – more accessible – Ghost Gum Walk. Bring your bathers – it’s safe for swimming.

4. Standley Chasm

woman walking through Standley Chasm near alice springs — Wander through Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT)

The 1.2-kilometre walk to nearby Standley Chasm will be a highlight for any visitor as the imposing 40 metre-high chasm walls project strength and ancient wisdom.

Visit at midday to experience the path illumined by the midday sun. Not only will you fill your camera roll with vibrant red images of the gorge and its intoxicating shadows, but you can also camp nearby in a powered or unpowered site so you can watch the brilliance of the desert stars fill the night sky after dusk.

5. Simpsons Gap

three people walking on path through simpsons gap near alice springs — Walk the trails of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr)

Closer to Alice Springs, the photogenic Simpsons Gap is the perfect place to spot the endangered Black-footed Rock wallaby near the permanent watering hole. While swimming isn’t permitted, soaking up the sun and views certainly is.

Explore the area’s numerous walking trails, appreciate the soaring cliffs on either side of the ‘gap’ and pick out the shooting locations of Kangaroo in the area.

6. Ellery Creek Big Hole

aerial of Ellery Creek Big Hole near alice springs — Dive into Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

When it comes to classic Northern Territory landscapes, you can’t go past Ellery Creek Big Hole/ Udepata : tall gum trees sidling up to a refreshing watering hole (fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by rugged red cliffs.

Swim in the cooling waters, hike the cliff tops, watch for birds and even stargaze as you camp here overnight. It’s locations like this that attracted the film’s director Kate Woods to the project.

“It humbles you to be in this environment: it’s so beautiful, so old and so vast,” she explains. “I was thrilled to get a chance to … shoot such a beautiful story in the incredible landscape of the Northern Territory.”

7. Larapinta Drive

aerial of Larapinta Drive into alice springs — Drive along Larapinta Drive. (Image: Tourism NT)

There is no better way to get a feel for how the characters arrived at the fictional Central Australian town of Silvergum than to travel along the iconic state road, Larapinta Drive.

Connecting Alice Springs to the mighty King’s Canyon in the west, via the historic community of Hermannsburg, this road takes in the West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Desert Park and artist Albert Namatjira’s house, among other attractions. Take your time, bring a camera and prepare for numerous stops along the way.

8. Todd River

competitors in Henley on Todd Regatta, alice springs — Join in the fun of the quirky Henley on Todd Regatta. (Image: Tourism NT/ TImparja Creative)

Meandering through Alice Springs like a lazy Western Brown snake, the Todd River is a central part of Alice Springs culture. Known as an ‘intermittent river’, the Todd can go from a dry dusty riverbed to a flowing waterscape in less than 15 minutes after heavy rainfall.

When it’s dry, the famous Henley on Todd Regatta fills the sandy riverbed with handmade ‘boats’ carried by sailors. This is the world’s only dry river boating event, and it’s referenced in the ‘Silvergum Boat Race’ in the movie. Inspired by the real-life event, the characters built quirky “Flintstones-style boats” and competed in teams.

See Kangaroo in cinemas now, and start planning your NT getaway at northernterritory.com.

Australia’s most stunning white sand beaches revealed