5 secret (and not so secret) summer spots around Australia
Going to the beach is a cornerstone of Australian culture, however, some of the best spots can get uncomfortably busy...
The Australian continent is absolutely bursting with options when it comes to stunning locations to take the boat. With more than 12,000 beaches, 11,400 lakes and 439 rivers, it’s nigh on impossible to see them all in your lifetime. But with such an extensive range to choose from, where does one begin?
Our best advice is to take the road less travelled … literally. Everyone knows about the gorgeous locations of Byron Bay (NSW), Rainbow Beach (Qld) and Rottnest Island (WA), but during the bustling summer boating season in Australia, these places become awfully busy, at times even taking away from the features that make them so special. We’ve therefore put together a short list of alternative secret (and not so secret) places to take the boat this summer, giving you good reason to go off the beaten track.
Lucky Bay, WA
Lucky Bay is in Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia, about 50km southeast of Esperance. This secluded location teeming with natural beauty is usually difficult to get to by car, but if you’re coming by boat, the journey is straightforward with the western side of the bay having an anchorage in depths of two to three metres.
A beach that looks like it came straight from a postcard, Lucky Bay is a truly unique place that puts many other Australian beaches to shame. It has unbelievably soft white sand, the clearest ocean water you’ll possibly ever encounter and wildlife such as southern grey kangaroos roaming around freely — making it the quintessential Aussie holiday location.
While Lucky Bay isn’t the biggest secret in Australia, it’s much less busy than other popular destinations, making it one of the best places for those hunting for some peace and quiet on the shore.
Maitland Bay, NSW
Maitland Bay is in Bouddi National Park in New South Wales, about 20km southeast of Gosford. Access to this stunning beach usually requires moderate fitness levels — the 20-minute walk down to the beach may be easy but getting back up the steep incline can take double the time. However, if you’re arriving by boat, there’s no need for the heart-pumping slog, with anchorages scattered all between Sydney and Port Stephens.
This private calm haven is the perfect place for nature lovers, with an extensive range of wildlife on display — including protected species such as white-bellied sea eagles, superb fairywrens and sugar gliders. And while you’re there (at low tide), make sure you check out the wreck of the paddle steamer Maitland, which crashed into the rocks in 1898 — a great little spot for snorkelling!
Memory Cove, SA
Memory Cove has to be one of the most picturesque locations in the whole country. The beach is usually only accessible by 4WD, adding to its nickname of a ‘private paradise,’ however if you have a boat, you have the luxury to come down whenever you like — with an anchorage right in front.
It’s located 50km south of Port Lincoln in South Australia, within Lincoln National Park, or 650km southwest of Adelaide. And with only 15 vehicles allowed on the beach at any one time, you can be assured it’ll never be crowded.
Choose from excellent fishing, swimming (of course), birdwatching, bushwalking, four-wheel driving or kayaking, and truly unwind in this sought-after location.
Nudey Beach, Qld
Nudey Beach on Queensland’s Fitzroy Island is a breathtaking location. This beautiful island is part of the Great Barrier Reef and is only accessible by boat — it takes about 45 minutes from Cairns.
This perfect spot is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets and if you’re lucky enough to own a boat, it’s an experience you can’t miss. Explore the beauty of tropical Far North Queensland at this incredible location, complete with squeaky white sand, azure clear waters and almost no people, really letting you become one with nature.
It goes without saying but if you’re this close to (or within really) the Great Barrier Reef, you must go snorkelling. With the coral reefs being only a few metres from shore, this is the perfect location to take the kids snorkelling — or those a little less confident in the water.
Dreamtime Beach, NSW
Located just south of Tweed Heads in northern New South Wales, near Fingal Head, Dreamtime Beach is a paradise created by nature many, many years ago. Getting there on foot is usually a bit challenging but if you have the comfort of coming by boat, it’s short ride down from the Gold Coast, with anchorages scattered throughout the region.
This incredible beach was formed approximately 20 million years ago when the appropriately named Mount Warning erupted. This created the current dramatic backdrop of black cliffs and unique formations such as the Giant’s Causeway out in the bay.
It’s a great spot (and very popular) for surfing, just be careful when entering the inviting turquoise sea as it is known for its rips and undercurrents which aren’t always visible from the shore. If you’re not a confident swimmer, it might be best to stay in the safe confines of your boat at this location.
Disclaimer: The sea conditions in these areas can change quickly and at times be too dangerous to approach with a boat. Always check with the local coastguard or marine authority for advice before setting out and current weather conditions before docking.
THE NEXT STEP
Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary on the boat of your dreams. Don't wait - Explore now!
Related Articles:
Explore some of Victoria’s best boating destinations
Tips for National Safe Boating Week