Sunshine Beach

Named Sunshine Beach and set on the Sunshine Coast this spot has quite a lot to live up to. With the mercury rarely dropping below the 20s and clouds conspicuous by their absence, we think it does! As such, it has an all-year-round lifeguard presence, such is its popularity at all times. 

There’s a real laidback vibe to the powdery white sands here, and plenty of space to spread out, with Sunshine Beach being just the start of a 15km stretch of open beach.

When it comes to eating and drinking, you’ll find a small handful of sea-view restaurants dotted along the front, but this place remains relatively untouched compared to some of the busier beaches along Australia’s East Coast.

Having said that, it’s a very popular haunt with surfers, and the surf club’s beachfront bar and restaurant stays open ‘til late, seven days a week. It’s also the place to bathe throughout the year, as this is the spot where the lifeguards are stationed year-round.