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Where golden sands meet world-class surf and rainforest-fringed shores, Queensland’s beaches deliver indulgence in every shade of blue.
With 7,000km of coastline, it’s safe to say there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches to explore in Queensland. From the surf breaks of Coolangatta on the Gold Coast and the white-sand beaches of Noosa on the Sunshine Coast to the relaxed pace of Palm Cove and Cairns, Queensland beaches offer something different for every traveller looking for a slice of luxury and relaxation. Discover exclusive island retreats like Hayman and Hamilton, or rainforest-kissed golden shores at Mission Beach – however you like to indulge, Queensland’s most iconic beaches are a licence to chill.
Scroll down for seven of the state’s very best.
1. Palm Cove
Lined with towering palm trees and centuries-old paperbarks, this patch of coastline just 20 minutes from Cairns offers a peaceful village atmosphere with golden sand and stunning pastel sunsets. Relax under a coconut palm, paddle around a Great Barrier Reef island, enjoy a spa treatment or delight in a fusion of tropical delicacies. It’s all part of life at Palm Cove.
2. Coolangatta
The southern Gold Coast’s famous sandy beaches and world-class surf breaks conclude at Coolangatta, renowned for its casual beachside culture. A stone’s throw from the famous Surfers Paradise strip is renowned luxury resorts including the Langham, Grand Sheraton Mirage and The Star Gold Coast. Early risers can enjoy a coffee by the beach, and beachgoers can enjoy calm and sheltered waters all year long.
3. Noosa
Being one of the only north-facing beaches on the east coast of Australia, tranquil conditions are almost always the surf report at the pristine Noosa Main Beach. When you’re done with sun, sand and saltwater for the day, retreat to the famous boutiques on Hastings Street or wine and dine at one of Noosa’s award-winning restaurants.
4. Airlie Beach
The glamorous gateway to the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach is where palm-fringed shores meet the shimmering Coral Sea. Blending barefoot luxury with laid-back Queensland charm, you’ll find waterfront resorts, high-end dining and a yacht-filled marina. Island-hop and board a private Catamaran to Whitehaven Beach’s pure silica sands or take a scenic flight over Heart Reef. Cool off in the picturesque lagoon or stop by at a breezy bar for the perfect après-sail atmosphere.
5. Hayman Island
At the northern tip of the Whitsundays, Hayman Island is Queensland’s private island paradise, where exclusivity meets untamed beauty. Every inch of Hayman is designed for seclusion, making it the perfect escape for those seeking barefoot indulgence. The island is home to an icon of luxury, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, where you can arrive by private yacht or helicopter and stay mere moments from Queensland’s crown jewel – the Great Barrier Reef.
6. Mission Beach
Fringed by lush rainforest and golden sands, Mission Beach presents a more understated kind of luxury, where the real star is its uninterrupted beauty. This stretch of coastline, linking four small beachside villages, feels blissfully untouched – it’s the kind of place where days are spent swimming in crystal-clear waters, sipping cocktails by the pool or taking a boat to Dunk Island, a hidden tropical haven just offshore.
7. Hamilton Island
Synonymous with refined island living, Hamilton Island is a favourite for luxury lovers. Here, world-class dining meets sun-drenched days on the water, with everything from private yacht charters to scenic helicopter flights over the reef. For a more social atmosphere, the marina precinct is dotted with upmarket restaurants and bars, making Hamilton Island as much about indulgence as it is about adventure.
This article was produced in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland.
