Tourism Australia has revealed the nation’s best beaches for 2026, with a surprise Sydney destination taking out the prestigious top spot.

Bate Bay was named Australia’s top ‘beach’ for 2026 following a study of the coastline around Australia’s mainland and surrounding islands.

A 5km stretch of coastline known as Bate Bay has topped this year’s list of Australia’s best beaches in a nod to its “glorious golden sands and cosmopolitan vibe”.

The official results of the Best Australian Beaches study for 2026 have been unveiled, with a stunning collection of beaches that make up Bate Bay, in ...