Victoria may not be the first place in the country that springs to mind when you think ‘best beaches’, but the ‘Garden State’s’ 2,000 kilometres of coastline is some of the most stunning and diverse that Australia has to offer.
From the wild surf breaks of the Great Ocean Road to the calm, family-friendly coves of Port Phillip Bay, Victoria has beaches to suit every taste and trip. These take in dramatic cliffs, golden sand dunes, and secluded rock pools.
Surfing, swimming, and diving are all popular activities down here and while you’re out on the water you can expect to be joined by some of the local inhabitants. A vast array of fish, dolphins, and even penguins can be seen up right along the coastline.
Victoria might not be a top contender for the best beach state in the country but it definitely holds its own with a wealth of hidden gems and unique experiences just waiting to be explored.
Here’s where beach lovers ought to head to next.
Best Beaches for Swimming and Sunbathing
Lorne Beach
Nestled amongst lush rainforest on the Great Ocean Road, Lorne Beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery.
Sorrento Back Beach
This sheltered cove on the Mornington Peninsula features turquoise waters, soft sand, and rockpools to explore at low tide.
Eastern Beach, Geelong
A historic beach with charming sea baths, perfect for a relaxing dip and soaking up the sun.
Best Beaches for Surfing
Bells Beach
Renowned for its world-class waves and iconic Rip Curl Pro surfing competition, Bells Beach is a surfer’s paradise.
Thirteenth Beach
Offering consistent swells and diverse breaks for all skill levels, Thirteenth Beach near Barwon Heads is a dreamy surf spot.
Cape Woolamai
This rugged surf beach on Phillip Island boasts powerful waves and stunning coastal scenery.
Best Beaches for Unique Experiences
Squeaky Beach, Wilsons Promontory
Named for the distinctive sound of its fine quartz sand underfoot, Squeaky Beach is a must-visit for its natural beauty and quirky charm.
Brighton Beach
Home to the iconic colourful beach boxes, Brighton Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere and a glimpse into Melbourne’s beach culture.
Ninety Mile Beach
Stretching along the Gippsland coast, this vast beach offers endless opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Gibson Steps Beach
Depending on the tides, this beach at the bottom offers a stunning view of the world-famous Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park are a must-see along the Great Ocean Road.
Best Hidden Gem Beaches
Betka Beach, Mallacoota
This family-friendly beach boasts a tree-shaded picnic area with gas BBQs, tables, and toilet facilities, making it perfect for a relaxing day out. It’s also known for its calm waters and stunning scenery.
Point Addis
This rugged coastline offers stunning views, wide sandy beaches, and a variety of marine life. The Point Addis Marine National Park is a great place to go for a hike or swim.
Aireys Inlet
This small town is a haven for surfers and beach lovers alike. There are several hidden coves and beaches to explore in the area, as well as a scenic clifftop walk.
Related: The 11 Greatest Beaches In Sydney That Aren’t Bondi
Related: Italy Has Approx. 8000 Beaches, But These 9 Are the Ones You Should Visit First
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