sports
February 27, 2026
‘The most important part is the vibe’: Bate Bay named Australia’s best beach
Tourism Australia beach ambassador Brad Farmer says the coastline south of Sydney airport ‘ticked pretty much every box’
TL;DR
- Bate Bay in the Sutherland Shire has been named Australia's best beach for 2026.
- Tourism Australia's beach ambassador, Brad Farmer, compiled the list based on a 130-point benchmark.
- Key judging factors included aesthetic, natural integrity, facilities, access, parking, and a friendly atmosphere.
- The award is expected to attract more tourism to the Sutherland Shire and increase national and international awareness.
- Bate Bay is located on Gweagal Country and has historical ties to both Indigenous Australians and European colonisation.
- Farmer advocates for a national framework for coastal protection and highlights the wellness benefits of beaches.
Continue reading the original article