Find the best beach in Australia

A 500-metre stretch of orange-pink sand framed by headlands at both ends, Warriewood stays quieter than nearby Narrabeen or Mona Vale thanks to its tricky road access. Head to the northern end for reliable autumn surf, or let the kids explore the rock pools near the headland. Just know that rips run the full length and professional lifeguards patrol weekdays Sep-Apr, volunteers on weekends.

“Park on Narrabeen Park Parade for free instead of paying at the lot right on the sand. Come on a weekday morning if you want the place mostly to yourself.”

Whale Beach stands out on the Northern Beaches with its deep, orange-tinted sand and dramatic sandstone headlands framing a 600-metre crescent. You'll find the Wedge, a well-known surf break at the northern end for experienced surfers, plus a calm 25-metre rock pool at the southern end that's great for families. It's quieter than Palm Beach just up the road, though parking runs around $10 an hour, so arrive early.

“Head to the rock pool at the southern end when the shore break is up, it's calmer than the open beach and quieter than the pools at Palm Beach or Avalon. Parking fills fast on summer weekends and costs around $10 an hour, so get there early.”

Seven kilometres of 98% pure silica sand that stays cool underfoot even in full tropical heat. Head to the northern end and you'll find Hill Inlet, where white sand and turquoise water swirl into patterns that shift with every tide. No road in, so you're arriving by boat, seaplane, or chopper.

“Time your visit to Hill Inlet around mid-tide, that's when the swirling sand and water patterns are at their best from Tongue Point lookout. Don't swim in the inlet itself though, the tidal currents are strong.”