Western Australia's Coastline Claims Top Spots in Prestigious Travel Guide
Western Australia has once again demonstrated its world-class coastal credentials, with the state's beaches featuring prominently in a major new travel publication. The globally respected Lonely Planet has released its comprehensive guide to Australia's finest beaches, and WA's pristine shores have made a remarkable showing.
A Significant Presence on the National Stage
The travel authority compiled an unranked list of the nation's 100 best beaches, and Western Australia secured an impressive 20 entries. This substantial representation underscores the state's reputation for breathtaking coastal landscapes that rival the best anywhere in the world.
Beyond the main list, Lonely Planet created several themed categories highlighting specific beach experiences. These included top destinations for wildlife watching, camping adventures, snorkelling excursions, and family-friendly outings. Several of Western Australia's most celebrated coastlines appeared across multiple lists, confirming their diverse appeal.
Standout Performers from the South West to the North West
Among the most celebrated inclusions is the iconic Lucky Bay, located near Esperance within Cape Le Grand National Park. This picturesque destination was crowned Australia's best beach for families and also ranked as the nation's third best beach for camping.
The guide's writers lavished praise on this protected coastal stretch, noting its extraordinary natural beauty. They described "sand so white and so fine it whistles under foot, and water in shades of blue so beautiful it doesn't seem real." The publication positioned Lucky Bay firmly among Australia's most dreamlike coastal destinations.
Further north, Turquoise Bay in Exmouth also achieved chart-topping status. Recognised for its exceptional ecological richness, it was named Australia's second best remote beach and the fourth best beach for snorkelling in the country.
Located just metres from the Ningaloo Reef, this beach offers unparalleled marine encounters. The guide highlighted that "Ningaloo Reef supports over 500 species of fish, 300 coral species, and marine megafauna including dugongs and manta rays." Visitors can experience a famous drift snorkel that carries them effortlessly above a vibrant underwater world.
Diverse Coastal Experiences Across the State
Other notable Western Australian beaches receiving special mention include:
- Hellfire Bay, celebrated as one of Australia's best remote beaches
- Monkey Mia, recognised for its outstanding accessibility
- Injidup Beach near Yallingup, acknowledged as a premier surfing destination
- The Basin on Rottnest Island, ideal for wildlife watching
- Misery Beach in Albany, highlighted as a top bushwalking spot
Of the twenty WA beaches featured in the top 100, only one represents the Perth metropolitan area. Cottesloe Beach maintains its status as the city's premier coastal destination, continuing its long-standing reputation for excellence.
This comprehensive recognition from one of the world's most trusted travel authorities serves as a powerful endorsement of Western Australia's diverse coastal offerings. From family-friendly bays to remote wilderness experiences and world-class snorkelling locations, the state's beaches continue to set a remarkable standard for coastal beauty and recreational opportunity.
