Written by Sheree Strange, Travel Without Limits, March 11, 2026
Beach expert Brad Farmer AM has once again combed Australia’s shoreline to find the best beach – and this year, he says Bate Bay in New South Wales has something for everyone.
He uses an exhaustive 130-point evaluation criteria to make his determination, and Bate Bay’s 4.8km stretch of beaches and ocean pools “ticked almost every box”.
“With glorious golden sands and a cosmopolitan vibe, this picturesque stretch of coastline feels like a hidden gem right under your nose but is easily accessible by train from the city centre,” said Brad.
Accessibility at Bate Bay
Beach-lovers looking for the best accessibility at Australia’s best beach in 2026 should head to Cronulla Beach (South), where the Sutherland Shire Council has introduced a range of facilities and accommodations to ensure it welcomes visitors of all abilities. It’s also naturally fairly level terrain, and waters are usually calm.
Three beach wheelchairs are available for loan, so you can choose the chair that best suits your needs: the EZ Roller, a Mobi-chair, and a Hippocampe all-terrain beach wheelchair. Bookings are required, with availability from 8:00AM-4:00PM during the summer season (September to April), and 10:00AM-2:00PM during the winter season (May to September).
The Sutherland Shire Council is also trialling Mobi-mats, rolling them out from the sand to the water’s edge on weekends and public holidays over the school holiday period (10:00AM-2:00PM). A 24/7 Mobi-mat will be installed nearby at Gunnamatta Bay baths during school holiday periods. Get in touch to book Mobi-mat access to ensure it’s available before your next visit.
An accessible toilet, changeroom, and shower can be found at Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club, with designated accessible parking nearby.
Even if you’re not getting down on the sand or in the water, a beautiful step-free coastal walkway links North Cronulla and South Cronulla beaches where you can see stunning views of the Best Australian Beach 2026.
Top 10 Best Australian Beaches 2026
Brad Farmer also publishes a top 10 list of the Best Australian Beaches each year.
“This year’s list is a celebration of the quiet, soulful spots that define our coastal identity and offer a true escape for those willing to wander a little further,” he says.
“Whether it’s the remote allure of Beachcomber Cove or Hellfire Bay, these beaches offer a ‘slow-travel’ experience. They are places where you can still hear the wind and the waves rather than the crowds, providing a deep, authentic connection to the land and sea, with many First Nations stories.”
- Bate Bay Beaches, New South Wales
- Pinky Beach, Western Australia
- Beachcomber Cove, Queensland
- Tallow Beach, New South Wales
- Hellfire Bay, Western Australia
- Godfreys Beach – The Nut, Tasmania
- Inskip Point, Queensland
- Mount Martha, Victoria
- Smoky Bay, South Australia
- Ellery Creek Big Hole, Northern Territory
“These locations encourage both Australians and international visitors to explore more of Australia beyond the traditional hotspots,” adds Robin Mack (Managing Director of Tourism Australia).
“This year’s study brilliantly showcases the incredible diversity of our coastline and beaches.”
