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The Best Hidden Beaches To Add To Your Summer Road Trip

The summer months are the perfect time to get your dose of sand between the toes (and let’s be real, everywhere else).

And after a year of looking at idyllic beaches on your computer screen, we can now visit these gorgeous sandy spots that Australia is known for. 

So, we’re here to help you find secluded beaches where you can dive under a salty wave and feel the ocean breeze on your skin.

All you have to remember is the sun screen, a reusable water bottle – and an extra bag for picking up any litter you find (we’ll give you extra points for that!)

Discovering new coastal slices of paradise is vital for the local industries too, so remember to grab a coffee at the local cafe, lunch at a nearby winery or fresh produce from a nearby farm. 

Here is our swell selection of the next hidden beaches you could be visiting:

Melbourne (Naarm):

 

1. Point Addis:

The Great Ocean Road is famously known for its grand stretches of red cliffs and clear blue waters (albeit, slightly wild south-west-coast waves). Point Addis is far less known than its neighbour Bells Beach, and is one of the first beaches on the Great Ocean Road, neatly sitting within the Point Addis Marine National Park, as a part of the Country of the Wathaurong people. It does not disappoint with large limestone and sandstone cliffs as far as the eye can see.

We highly recommend you view these from the water too! You can also embark on a number of cliff top walks to build a sweat before the ocean dip.

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Local to support: Bellbrae Estate

Pop in for a local glass of wine at the Bellbrae Estate on your way back from the waters of Point Addis. They also offer cheese boards and wood fired pizza if you’re peckish!

 

2. Kilcunda:

Kilcunda is a hidden gem nearly two hours drive from Melbourne, on the original lands of the Bunurong Aboriginal people, but it’s worth the effort! To make the drive worth your while, there’s a quaint holiday park overlooking the water which offers great sunset views. Not only are the surrounding beaches everything you could hope for with stretches of white sand beach and rolling waves, but the one local pub and cafe aren’t to be missed.

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Local Industry to support: Kilcunda General Store

This store really does, generally, have everything you need. From great coffee and locally sourced baked goods, to boutique homewares and vintage clothing.

 

Sydney (Djubuguli):

 

3. Wattamolla Beach

If you haven’t discovered Royal National Park, situated in the traditional lands of the Dharawal people, now is the time. Within the park and only an hour’s drive away from the city crowds is the picturesque Wattamolla Beach and falls, with a secluded lagoon and perfect picnic area. Perfect for a lazy day by the water, with snorkel and book in hand. 

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Local industry to support: La Cucina

Has all the fresh air got you craving fresh Italian? La Cucina brings a slice of Italy to the heart of the shire, and is the perfect stop off on the way home!

 

4. Congwong Beach

While this beach may not be hidden, it’s as secluded as you can get while being a mere 15km from the city. Situated within the Kamay Botany National Park, original lands of the Gwea people, Congwong Beach is an easy day out with a sheltered sandy beach and lapping waves.

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Local industry to support: The Boatshed La Perouse

The views don’t need to stop there, keep lapping up the ocean air with a waterfront table at The Boatshed and indulge in the freshest seafood around town.

 

Brisbane (Meeanjin):

5. Froggy Beach

Don’t tell all the tourists about this one, but Froggy Beach is the ultimate locals spot – you know you’re there once you see the green frog painted on the rock on the hill (behind the Rainbow Bay RSL). A 90-min drive from Brisbane and a part of Bundjalung Country which stretches down the coastline, Froggy Beach is the perfect sheltered spot and idyllic cove for a day relaxing in the sunshine.

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Local to support: Zephyr Coffee Co

In the heart of Kirra Beach, the Zephyr & Co team are experts at air roasting – creating superior tasting coffee. We think you’ll like it a latte.

 

6. Tallebudgera Creek

Nestled between Burleigh Heads National Park and Palm Beach sits Tallebudgera Creek – where the must-do activities include swimming, kayaking and camping. Did someone say soaking up nature? Also a 90 min drive from Brisbane, this sweet spot is well worth the drive. Fancy a surf rather than a paddle? Tallebudgera Beach is only a short stroll away!

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Local to support: Talle Coffee Shack

This part of the country is all about coffee. And sometimes simple is good. Grab a fresh brew at the Talle Coffee Shack before you embark on your beach day out.

 

Hobart (Nipaluna):

7. Boronia Beach

A quick 16 minute drive from Hobart and you’ll find yourself at the secluded paradise of Boronia Beach – and the 2km hike into this piece of paradise means you’re less likely to find it overrun with beach-goers. Prepare yourself for crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkelling and a hidden cove which you’ll mistake for a hidden beach in the mediterranean. 

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Local to support: Robbie Browns

You can’t go past Robbie Browns Bar and Restaurant on your way home, with quality local produce, seasonal menus, and award-winning cocktails.

 

8. Cockle Creek

This might not be as local, but for a 2 hour drive from Hobart, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning and secluded bay on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Originally Cadigal Aboriginal land, the area is peacefully remote – which means take everything you need, and make a camping trip out of it!

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Local industry to support: Southport Hotel & Caravan Park

You can’t go to the most Southern tip of Tasmania without stopping at the most Southern pub!

 

 

Adelaide (Kaurna Country)

9. Rapid Bay

Located in the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula, a 90 minute drive from Adelaide, sits a small beach side town with a beautiful beach nestled between sandy beaches and towering cliffs. Rapid Bay is mainly known for its long jetty, but is also home to a calm beach and abundant sea life. Hot tip: you could also spot a Leafy Sea Dragon, so don’t forget the snorkel!

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Local industry to support: Leonards Mill

You don’t get more locally sourced than everything being found within 50km of the restaurant, but that’s what you’ll find at Leonards Mill – supporting the Fleurieu Peninsula growers and farmers, while also having their own permaculture garden onsite. Paddock to plate, nose to tail and root to leaf.

 

10. Maslin Beach

Wanting to stay a bit closer to home? Maslin Beach is a mere 40 minute commute from Adeladide and offers a long expansive stretch of beach and protected cove, great for swimming. Fun fact: It’s also Australia’s first nudist beach, so clothing optional is the southern end of the beach.

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Local industry to support: Goodness Coffee Co

Located in the historic village township of Aldinga, Goodness Coffee Co is a boutique cafe set in the historic part of town, complete with local bread and flowers on offer.

 

Perth (Mooro):

11) Mettams Pool

This naturally formed lagoon sits atop limestone reefs, making it the perfect place to safely snorkel and swim. Sitting on the traditional lands of the Nyoongar People, the trig cliffs are scattered with many beautiful bays – so you have the option to look further afield if it’s not quite as secluded as you would like.

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Local Industry to support: Yelo Cornerstore

Think local specialty coffee, fresh real food and juices, a selection of homewares and books, and the best community vibe.

 

12) Serpentine Falls

Okay, not technically a beach – but we can’t get enough of Serpentine Falls. On the original lands of the Noongar Aboriginal people and with abundant wildflowers and wildlife, it’s the perfect place to pitch up for the day – spending time cooling off in the falls or laying on the grassy lawns reading a book or having a picnic.

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Local Industry to support: Millbrook Winery

You don’t get much more stunning than Millbrook Winery. As a boutique winery and acclaimed restaurant nestled in Chestnut Farm, it’s worth the 20 min detour on your way home.