World’s best beaches: Wharton Beach ranked third in the world as Turquoise Bay rounds out top 15

The Rise of the ‘Untouched’ Destination: A New Era of Luxury

The recent recognition of Western Australia’s coastlines in the World’s Best Beaches rankings signals a profound shift in global travel preferences. While luxury was once defined by five-star resorts and manicured sands, the modern traveler is increasingly seeking what industry experts call ‘raw luxury’—the prestige of isolation and undeveloped natural beauty.

Turquoise Bay, ranked 15th globally, exemplifies this trend. Recognized for its secluded and untouched perfection, the beach represents a growing demand for destinations where the desert meets the sea without the interference of heavy infrastructure. This move toward minimalism in tourism suggests that the future of high-end travel lies in the preservation of the environment rather than the addition of amenities.

From Sustainable to Regenerative Travel

As destinations like Wharton Beach—which secured a stunning third-place global ranking—gain international visibility, the conversation is shifting from ‘sustainable tourism’ to ‘regenerative travel.’ While sustainability aims to minimize harm, regenerative travel seeks to actively improve the destination.

The isolation of Wharton Beach is a key part of its appeal, with ranking statements noting that its isolation ensures it rarely feels crowded. However, as these ‘hidden gems’ become global talking points, the challenge for regional governments is to manage growth without destroying the very solitude that makes them attractive.

WA Tourism Minister Reece Whitby highlighted that the tourism sector is a key role in the WA Government’s economic diversification strategy. The future trend here is the implementation of ‘low-impact, high-value’ tourism models, where visitor numbers are capped to protect the ecosystem while increasing the economic benefit to local businesses.

The ‘Slow Travel’ Movement in Remote Regions

The appeal of Wharton Beach, located an hour east of Esperance and lauded for its 4WD scene, aligns with the global ‘Slow Travel’ movement. This trend encourages travelers to spend more time in one location, engaging deeply with the landscape rather than ticking off multiple landmarks in a single trip.

The presence of a caravan park at Wharton Beach facilitates this deeper immersion. Future travel trends suggest a rise in ‘nomadic luxury,’ where travelers utilize high-end camping gear and off-road vehicles to access remote areas, blending adventure with comfort.

This shift is also evident in the ranking of Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay at 21st. The consistency of Australian beaches in the top 50 suggests that the continent is becoming a primary hub for those fleeing over-tourism in Europe and Asia.

Marine Biodiversity as a Primary Travel Driver

The recognition of Turquoise Bay is not just about the sand, but the water. The incredible ‘Drift Snorkel’ current of the Ningaloo Reef is a prime example of ‘biodiversity tourism,’ where the primary draw is the opportunity for up-close encounters with a diverse array of marine life.

We are seeing a trend where travelers prioritize ‘citizen science’ experiences—trips that allow them to observe and help document marine health. The crystal-clear conditions of the Ningaloo Reef craft it a perfect laboratory for this type of engagement, transforming a simple vacation into an educational experience.

“Both beaches are a major drawcard for the State and its regions, with the tourism sector playing a key role in the WA Government’s economic diversification strategy and supporting local jobs and businesses.” Reece Whitby, WA Tourism Minister

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