Bate Bay, a 4.8km stretch of coastline south of Sydney Airport, has been named Australia’s best beach for 2026. The annual list, compiled by Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador Brad Farmer, aims to showcase the country’s beautiful beaches both domestically, and internationally.
Aesthetic, Access, and “The Vibe”
Farmer described Bate Bay as “Sydney’s longest, least crowded and most beautiful stretch of sand.” He assessed 12,500 beaches using a 130-point benchmark, ultimately concluding that Bate Bay “ticked pretty much every box.” Factors considered included aesthetic appeal, natural integrity, facilities, access, and parking.
Beyond the practical considerations, Farmer emphasized the importance of atmosphere. “Just like The Castle, the most important part is the vibe,” he said. “Having a friendly and inviting atmosphere is one of the most important factors when analysing.”
Local Pride and Tourism Boost
The award has been welcomed by local officials. Sutherland Shire Mayor Jack Boyd stated the recognition reflects what residents have long known about their coastline, and he anticipates a boost in tourism. New South Wales Tourism Minister Steve Kamper echoed this sentiment, declaring NSW the winner when it comes to Australian beaches.
Bate Bay is located on Gweagal Country of the Dharawal nation, and many of the beaches within the bay—including Gunnamatta, Wanda, Elouera, and Cronulla—carry Indigenous names.
Looking Ahead
Farmer hopes the annual list will highlight the importance of Australia’s beaches and spur the development of a national framework for coastal protection. He also urged Australians to take ownership of their local beaches, stating, “We need to ensure we don’t ruin it for the next generation.” A possible next step could be increased investment in coastal conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bate Bay stand out?
According to Brad Farmer, Bate Bay is Sydney’s longest, least crowded, and most beautiful stretch of sand, ticking all the boxes in his 130-point assessment.
What factors were considered in selecting Bate Bay?
Factors included aesthetic appeal, natural integrity, facilities, access, parking, and the overall “vibe” of the beach.
What is the significance of Bate Bay’s location?
Bate Bay is located on Gweagal Country of the Dharawal nation and was the site of the first recorded interaction between Indigenous Australians and European colonizers in 1770.
What will it take to preserve the beauty of Bate Bay and other Australian beaches for future generations?
