Tourism Australia has just revealed their list of top beaches for 2022 – how many have you been to?

With almost 12,000 beaches to pick and choose from, Tourism Australia’s Brad Farmer has got a lot of sand to sift through to narrow down to the top ten beaches every year (yes this man’s job is to visit and rate beaches). 

By the looks of this year’s list, every state and territory has been covered (if you count Jervis Bay in the ACT), and there are some pretty unique and lesser-known beaches on the ticket. I asked the We Are Explorers crew for their own reviews of the beaches, (though admittedly there’s still a bunch we’re yet to tick off).

Let’s dig in! (Get it? Like sand, digging).

10. Dundee Beach, NT

Palm trees, fishing, crocs. Dundee Beach is a weekend destination for Darwinians, with little more than a campground, boat ramp, and all-in-one petrol station, kiosk, general store and bar – but what’s not to like about that?

WAE Founder Henry Brydon actually lived at Dundee Beach for six weeks when he first arrived in Australia and only has fond memories. 

 

9. Murrays Beach, Booderee National Park, JBT

‘Murrays Beach is honestly as good as advertised if you’re there on a not too busy day. Clear calm blue waters, white sand beaches and you can venture around the headland on the south end for a little rock scrambling adventure.’ – Jono, Social Media Manager

 

Photo by Filippo Rivetti

8. Depot Beach, Murramarang National Park, NSW

Anyone who’s been to the NSW South Coast knows just how magical it is and Depot Beach is no exception. Nestled into Murramarang National Park, you’ll find quiet beachside camping and cabins, a rainforest walk, and an ocean prime for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Divine!

 

7. Blue Pearl Bay, Hayman Island, QLD

Ok this place looks like it belongs somewhere on a Thai island with its towering cliffs, turquoise water, and perfectly white, sandy bay snug between. You’ll have to be determined to get there though, with an overnight boat trip the best way to experience this glorious gem.

 

Photo thanks to Tourism & Events Queensland

6. The Neck, Bruny Island, TAS

The Neck that holds the head onto Bruny Island. This sweeping stretch of sand is encompassed by the ocean on both sides, making it one of the most unique beaches in the country. Tell me you don’t want to stand right there and take it all in. 

 

5. Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell National Park, VIC

‘Loch Ard Gorge definitely has a very distinct aesthetic to it that you’re not getting anywhere else.’ – Jono, Social Media Manager

Photos thanks to Visit Vic

4. Flahertys Beach, Yorke Peninsula, SA

Ok so apparently you can walk on water at Flahertys Beach?? Sitting oh so pretty on the Yorke Peninsula, this beach has that perfect combo of turquoise water and white sand that you dream of while you’re sitting at the desk day in and day out. 

 

Photo thanks to Annette Lawrence

3. The Spit, Gold Coast, QLD

This 4km stretch of sand on the iconic Gold Coast isn’t your standard city beach. In fact its trimmed by reserve and parklands, making in a quiet and peaceful retreat in the middle of the hustle and bustle. With sets for days and an off-leash dog beach to-boot, The Spit is a dream city beach. 

 

Photo thanks to Tourism & Events Queensland

2. Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks, NSW

‘Horseshoe Bay is right in the heart of South West Rocks and has a campground that backs onto part of it so you can get sites that look right over the beach.’ – Teige, Sales & Promotions Manager

 

Photo thanks to Destination NSW

1. Misery Bay, Torndirrup National Park, WA

Maybe being declared Australia’s Best Beach 2022 will cheer up these sandy shores. If the WA border was open, Misery Bay way down on the South Coast would be inundated by now. 

With a sad past of whaling that saw the white sand beaches turn red with blood, Misery Bay is reclaiming its beauty. And what a beauty it is!