Tasmania’s Bay of Fires tops annual Best Australian Beaches list

February 9, 2025

For the first time a Tasmanian beach has been recognised as Australia’s finest on the official annual list of the Best Australian Beaches.

Following a comprehensive study of the coastline around Australia’s mainland and surrounding islands, by beach expert Brad Farmer, the 10 kilometre stretch of beach in the southern portion of the Bay of Fires Conservation Reserve in Tasmania has taken the honour.

It’s the first time the title has gone to a cluster of beaches and not a single winner. The section of coast makes up the southern portion of the Bay of Fires bookended by The Gardens to the North and Binalong Bay to the South.

Farmer, who is an Australian coastal veteran and one of Tourism Australia’s Friends of Australia, said while the water might be a bit cooler in Tasmania its coastline is pristine and the Bay of Fires is worthy of the coveted title of Best Australian Beach for 2025.

He explained “I spent plenty of time in Tasmania assessing the beaches and in the end 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.

“They say the colder water is good for you, but even if you’re not up for a refreshing dip there is still plenty to do and see along this 10 kilometre stretch of coast. It’s a location made for photography or painting, fishing and surfing.”

“Woolgoolga in New South Wales has been judged Australia’s best mainland beach and finished in second spot, while Emily Bay Lagoon on Norfolk Island has taken out the bronze.”

“Every beach which makes the list is a winner and this year really highlights the incredible diversity of the beach offerings we have here in Australia. It really is like nowhere else in the world. In 2025 we recognise beaches of all shapes and sizes right around the country.”

‘Top 10’ Best Australian Beaches for 2025

1. Bay of Fires, Tasmania
2. Woolgoolga, New South Wales
3. Emily Bay Lagoon, Norfolk Island
4. North Kirra Beach, Queensland
5. Little Lagoon, Western Australia
6. Fishery Bay, South Australia
7. 1770, Queensland
8. Scarborough Beach, Western Australia
9. Caves Beach, New South Wales
10. Cowes Beach, Victoria

Farmer added “having to pick from almost 12,000 candidates is not an easy job and at time the selections create plenty of debate, which I welcome, and I look forward to the feedback on this year’s top 10.”

Tourism Australia Managing Director, Phillipa Harrison noted “at Tourism Australia our research consistently shows us that international visitors come to Australia to experience our beaches and the Best Beaches of Australia 2025 helps to showcase the breadth and depth of what we have to offer.”

For further information go to www.bestaustralianbeaches.com

Image: Tasmania's Bay of Fires (top, credit: Tasmanian Walking Company), Woolgoolga Beach in NSW (middle, credit Liz McGinnes) and Emily Bay Lagoon on Norfolk Island (below, credit Norfolk Island Tourism).

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