Stunning Stokes Bay on South Australia’s Kangaroo Island has taken the coveted ‘Best Australian Beach’ title for 2023.
It is the first time a South Australian beach has been in top place in the annual ‘Best Australian Beaches’ top 10 list, curated for Tourism Australia by expert Brad Farmer AM.
Mr Farmer, who travelled to beaches around Australia, found secluded Stokes Bay on Kangaroo Island’s north coast the standout for 2023.
The top 10 list includes busy beaches, like Balmoral Beach in Sydney, remote spots such as Little Bondi Beach in East Arnhem Land, and at least one beach in every state around the country.
With travellers increasingly looking for outdoor experiences, would-be visitors from around the world will take a close look at the list of ‘Best Australian Beaches 2023’.
There are 11,761 beaches on Australia’s mainland and islands, which is the largest number of beaches of any country in the world.
Iconic Stokes Bay is loved by travellers from across the globe thanks to its family friendly nature and stunning tidal swimming pools that are perfect for wading or snorkelling.
Tourism Minister, Senator Don Farrell said Australia boasts the world’s best coastline and many international travellers, who are returning to the country’s shores in growing numbers, want to explore the idyllic beaches we have to offer.
“Every beach on the 2023 list is not just among the best in Australia, but the best in the world,” Senator Farrell said.
“As a proud South Australian, I’m very happy to see Stokes Bay on Kangaroo Island named the ‘Best Australian Beach’ for 2023.”
South Australian Tourism Minister, Zoe Bettison said locals know South Australia has the best beaches in the country, if not the world, so it is incredibly exciting to have Kangaroo Island’s Stokes Bay to be officially crowned as the Best Australian Beach.
“Following devastating bushfires and a pandemic, it is wonderful to see Kangaroo Island top coveted lists worldwide – including top ten in the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go list for 2023 – helping the region, and South Australia, be top of mind for visitors globally,” Minister Bettison said.
Top 10 Best Australian Beaches for 2023:
1. Stokes Bay – SA, Kangaroo Island
2. Boomerang Beach – NSW, Mid North Coast
3. Rainbow Beach – QLD, Cooloola Coast
4. Apollo Bay – VIC, Great Ocean Road
5. Adventure Bay – TAS, Bruny Island
6. Hamelin Bay – WA, South-West
7. Little Bondi Beach – NT, East Arnhem Land
8. British Admiralty Beach – TAS, King Island, Bass Strait
9. Flying Fish Cove – Christmas Island
10. Balmoral Beach – NSW, Sydney Harbour
