NSW has hundreds of beaches, yet it’s the world-famous ones in Sydney that often steal the show. While Bondi’s iconic ocean pool, quality surf, and Manly’s golden sands and snorkelling opportunities deserve the hype, there is a lot more to admire about the rest of the state — including one lesser-known spot that has just ranked the second-best in Australia. Woolgoolga, a hidden gem nestled along NSW’s Coffs Coast, claimed a well-deserved runner-up spot. It was named one of the best Australian beaches for 2025, thanks to its excellent surf, pristine views, and vibrant blue waters. Woolgoolga, better known as ‘Woopi’ was hailed for being the “ideal beachside getaway” with varied beachscapes, lagoons, waterways and headlands.
The accolade was awarded by Brad Farmer AM, Tourism Australia’s official beach ambassador, who meticulously evaluates 130 factors each year including aesthetics, facilities, safety, and weather to select the nation’s finest beach. Surprisingly, while Tasmania’s crisp weather might not immediately conjure up images of blue waters and sun-soaked scenery, it was the stunning Bay of Fires that emerged as the best beach in Australia in 2025.
“I spent plenty of time in Tasmania assessing the beaches and there were so many incredible options I couldn’t even settle on one, which is why, for the first time, I’m awarding the best beach to a cluster of neighbouring beach bays in the Bay of Fires,” Farmer said.
Meanwhile, Norfolk Island’s Emily Bay Lagoon secured the third spot. North Kirra Beach in Queensland and Little Lagoon in Western Australia rounded out the country’s top 5 best beaches.
Woolgoola wasn’t the only NSW beach to make the list, local favourite Caves Beach — a photography hotspot filled with gorgeous sea caves, just 2 hours from Sydney in Lake Macquarie, also made the top 10.
The 10 best Australian beaches for 2025
- Bay of Fires, TAS
- Woolgoolga, NSW
- Emily Bay Lagoon, Norfolk Island
- North Kirra Beach, QLD
- Little Lagoon, WA
- Fishery Bay, SA
- 1770, QLD
- Scarborough Beach, WA
- Caves Beach, NSW
- Cowes Beach, VIC
Find the full list on bestaustralianbeaches.