SQUEAKY Beach, nestled in the Wilsons Promontory National Park, has taken out the number one spot of Australia’s Best Beaches for 2024.
The glorious beach is enclosed by massive granite boulders at both ends, Squeaky Beach earns its distinctive name thanks to the famous white quartz sand that squeaks beneath your feet as you stroll along.
Squeaky Beach can be easily accessed on foot from the carpark but, if you’re after the full experience, walk from Tidal River to take in some of the beautiful views across Tidal River, Norman Bay and Squeaky (6.34 km / 1.5-hour walk).
The top 10 list showcases the diversity of Australia’s breathtaking beaches and coastal destinations. This is the first time a Victorian beach has been named at No.1 - with the top spot usually going to NSW or Queensland.
Squeaky Beach was in competition with 11,761 beaches across Australia’s mainland and islands, with The Farm in New South Wales and Cockle Creek in Tasmania taking home silver and bronze.
Australia boasts the largest number of beaches of any country in the world and the list serves as an inspiration for travellers here and abroad for their next holiday destination.
South Gippsland Mayor Cr Clare Williams has hailed the news as a major boost for local tourism and visitor numbers.
“It’s awesome news. It’s got to be good for tourism. Imagine being able to say we have the best beach in Australia. That’s pretty amazing,” Cr Williams said.
Destination Gippsland CEO Terry Robinson said to be named as Australia’s Best Beach is a fantastic, and very well-deserved, accolade for Squeaky Beach, in the Wilsons Promontory National Park.
“Our region has an abundance of beautiful, unspoilt coastline to be discovered and we hope that this will encourage beach-lovers to visit and enjoy all that we have to offer.”
It turns out Lonely Planet has also got in on the act - Squeaky Beach has been included in their newly released book - ‘Lonely Planet’s Best Beaches: 100 of the world’s best beaches.’ Squeaky Beach was one of only nine Australian beaches named in the top 100!
Tourism Australia's annual list of Best Australian Beaches is crafted by expert Brad Farmer, author of 101 Best Australian Beaches.
Senator for Victoria Jess Walsh said move over Queensland and Bondi! Victoria officially has the best beach in the country. "Squeaky Beach deserves every bit of the top spot – with its iconic squeaky white sand, clear water and striking orange rocks,” Senator Walsh said.
“Many Victorians already knew Squeaky Beach was something special, now all of Australia does too."
Brad Farmer said that “beaches are much more than just a place to lay a towel and get wet. Our coasts have the potential to become this nation’s greatest sustainable resource for generations to come.”
Mr Farmer also warned swimmers to always bath between the flags, where possible, and if you can’t get to a patrolled beach assess conditions and plan how to stay safe before entering the water.
In fact, the Parks Victoria website carries the following warning about swimming at Squeaky Beach: “Beware of wave surges and strong currents. This beach is not patrolled.”
The main beach at Tidal River/Norman is patrolled on weekends during the summer, while nearby Whisky Bay, with its distinctive granite boulders is considered a better choice for a swim on hot (offshore wind) days. Both Squeaky Beach and Whisky Bay have small carparks.
Check out the beachsafe app/website for a guide to conditions at https://beachsafe.org.au/
Top 10 Best Australian Beaches for 2024:
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Victoria |
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New South Wales |
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Tasmania |
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Western Australia |
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Cocos (Keeling) Islands |
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Queensland |
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Lord Howe Island |
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South Australia |
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Queensland |
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Northern Territory |
The Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said Australia’s beaches are the best in the world, and the list of ‘Best Australian Beaches’, showcases some of the hidden treasures to travellers here and abroad.
“With tourism to Australia continuing to rebound following the pandemic, it’s important we continue to make sure Australia is front and centre on the world stage, and showcasing the diverse range of beautiful beaches we have to offer is a great way to do just that.”
To plan your visit to Squeaky Beach visit here:
www.visitgippsland.com.au/do-and-see/nature-and-wildlife/beaches/squeaky-beach
