With the allure of crystal-clear waters, powdery sands, and breathtaking vistas, the world's most beautiful beaches beckon travellers seeking an escape to paradise.

From secluded coves fringed by lush greenery to expansive stretches of golden shores kissed by azure waves, these exquisite beaches captivate with their timeless charm and offer a rejuvenating haven for sun-seekers and adventurers alike.

Australian shores are no strangers to accolades, but in 2024, one particular stretch of coastline has soared above the rest, capturing the imaginations of beach connoisseurs globally.


Palm Cove Beach in Cairns has not just made the list—it has crowned the ‘epitome of a tropical paradise’ by being named the best beach in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, besting those in Hawaii, Fiji, and France, among others.

Australia secured the highest number of entries and asserted its presence in the top ten, with Byron Bay's Wategos Beach, Sydney's Mona Vale Beach, and Noosa Beach claiming the fourth, sixth, and eighth spots, respectively.

Additionally, two beaches from Western Australia, Turquoise Bay in Exmouth and Gantheaume Point in Broome, secured the 22nd and 25th positions.


This recognition is a testament to Australia's diverse and pristine coastal beauty, emboldening its reputation as a beachgoer's heaven.

What makes Palm Cove Beach a cut above the rest, earning it the ultimate praise in the esteemed top 34 Best Beaches in the World for 2024 list?

It's not just the magnetic allure of its white sands and swaying palms, or the melaleuca trees that whisper tales of half a millennium.


There's an inexplicable charm to Palm Cove, located just a scenic drive away from Cairns city centre and a stone's throw from the magical Port Douglas.

Allowing travellers to both lounge in the natural luxury of its shores and venture into the heart-racing expanse of the Daintree Rainforest, or the enchanting underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, the allure of Palm Cove is exceptional.

This coastal jewel serves as a gateway to experiences that span land and sea, combining adventure and relaxation as few other destinations can.

Majestic marine life such as whales and dolphins frequently grace onlookers from the Palm Cove jetty, turning an average beach day into a wildlife documentary episode.


Beyond its natural splendour, Palm Cove has cultivated an air of refined elegance.

The town, though modest in population, punches well above its weight with a glittering array of world-class eateries, bars, and spas that sit comfortably alongside the serenity of the shoreline.

This ‘glamorous beach village’ does more than just charm tourists; it's garnered the steadfast love of its local community, a fact highlighted by Cairns Mayor Terry James.

‘What sets Palm Cove apart is its distinctive beauty and unique ambience. It’s a harmonious blend of beachside village adorned with magnificent melaleucas, complemented by luxury hotels and fine-dining restaurants, all nestled alongside a pristine palm-fringed beach,’ he said.

‘Recognition of Palm Cove as the world’s number one beach by an award-winning travel magazine and website only validates what locals already know about Palm Cove, often referred to as the jewel of Cairns’ northern beaches.’


Palm Cove's seductive beauty gracefully pulls travellers into its embrace, making it no surprise that it's been held in such high regard by experts and is accompanied by other stellar Australian beaches on the list.

Wategos Beach, with its surfing splendour and Mona Vale Beach, Sydney's 'unsung hero of the Northern Beaches’, add to the nation's showcase of coastal treasures.

Ranked at number eight in Conde Nast Traveller's list of top beaches, Noosa Main Beach in Queensland is a cherished destination.

Renowned for its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere, it attracts locals and tourists alike. Positioned facing north, the beach boasts clear, calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation.

Situated adjacent to the lush Noosa National Park, its expansive golden sands offer a picturesque setting for witnessing breathtaking sunrises.


Ranked at number 22, Exmouth's Turquoise Bay in Western Australia offers a stunning coastal experience.

Nestled along the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, this aptly named beach showcases pristine aqua waters, powdery white sands, and delightful warm weather throughout much of the year.

Its vibrant marine ecosystem and diverse coral formations attract snorkelling enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking to explore its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.


Gantheaume Point, situated approximately 6 kilometres from the Kimberley hub of Broome, claimed the 25th spot among the world's top 34 beaches.

Characterised by striking red rocky cliffs juxtaposed against the azure ocean, this coastal gem offers a unique landscape.

Its rocky shoreline is adorned with natural pools, while its notable feature includes authentic dinosaur footprints dating back approximately 130 million years, adding an intriguing historical dimension to its allure.

Beyond these six, Australia is blessed with other mesmerising beaches. Last year, another two also made the list of the 50 best beaches in the world.
Have you already been to Palm Cove? Which Australian beach do you think should have also made the list? Let us know in the comments below.