If there’s one corner of the world that knows how to do beaches, it’s Oceania. Stretching across the Pacific, this region is a paradise of turquoise waters, powdery sands, and hidden coves that look like they belong on postcards. From Australia’s rugged coastline to Fiji’s remote islands, Oceania’s beaches are more than just beautiful—they’re unforgettable.
I’ve had the joy of exploring several, and each one feels like its own little world. Whether you’re chasing adventure, relaxation, or the perfect Instagram shot, here are some of the best beaches in Oceania you absolutely need to visit at least once.
1. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
If perfection were a beach, it would be Whitehaven. Located in the Whitsundays, this seven-kilometer stretch of pure silica sand is blindingly white and impossibly soft.
Why it’s special:
The sand doesn’t get hot, so barefoot walks are blissful.
The swirling patterns of turquoise water and white sand are otherworldly, especially from Hill Inlet Lookout.
It’s part of a protected national park, so the beach feels pristine and untouched.
I remember stepping onto Whitehaven for the first time—it felt like walking into a dream, where nature is at its most generous.
2. Champagne Beach, Vanuatu
The name alone makes you curious, doesn’t it? Champagne Beach earned its title from the fizzy bubbles that rise through the sand when the tide rolls out, giving the water a sparkling effect.
What makes it unforgettable:
Clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling
Palm-fringed shoreline with soft, golden sand
Local markets nearby selling fresh coconuts and handmade crafts
It’s not just beautiful—it’s playful, as if the ocean itself is celebrating.
3. Matira Beach, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
When you think “tropical paradise,” Bora Bora usually comes to mind—and Matira Beach lives up to the fantasy. Unlike many beaches in the area that belong to private resorts, Matira is public, making it accessible to everyone.
Why it’s dreamy:
Gentle, shallow lagoon waters perfect for swimming
Sunsets that turn the sky into a painting of pinks and purples
A relaxed vibe compared to the luxury resort beaches
I spent an evening here, toes in the sand, watching the horizon glow. It’s the kind of beach that makes you forget time exists.
4. Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand
Stretching as far as the eye can see, Ninety Mile Beach (actually about 55 miles long) is an adventure as much as a beach.
Highlights:
Endless stretches of golden sand
Sandboarding on giant dunes nearby
Watching wild horses that roam the area
Driving along this beach (yes, you can drive on it with the right vehicle) felt surreal, like being in a movie scene where the ocean meets infinity.
5. Natadola Beach, Fiji
Fiji is known for stunning beaches, but Natadola stands out as one of its finest. With wide, sweeping sands and crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Why it’s worth visiting:
Great swimming at high tide, with gentle waves
Snorkeling reefs close to shore
Horseback rides along the sand for the ultimate romantic touch
Fiji’s hospitality shines here—you’ll often find locals eager to share stories, making the beach feel warm in more ways than one.
6. Bondi Beach, Australia
It’s iconic for a reason. Bondi is more than just a beach; it’s a lifestyle. From surfers catching waves to joggers along the coastal walk, it buzzes with energy.
What makes it iconic:
Surfing culture at its best
The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk with breathtaking views
Trendy cafés nearby serving everything from açai bowls to avocado toast
I’ll admit, it’s not the quietest beach—but if you want to feel the heartbeat of Sydney, Bondi is where you go.
7. Anse Vata Beach, New Caledonia
A blend of French sophistication and island charm, Anse Vata is the perfect beach for travelers who want both relaxation and activity.
Why I loved it:
Windsurfing and kitesurfing in steady breezes
Cafés and bakeries nearby offering French pastries (beach and croissants—yes, please!)
Stunning sunsets over the lagoon
It’s the kind of beach where you can be adventurous by day and romantic by night.
8. Lalomanu Beach, Samoa
Samoa often gets overlooked, but Lalomanu Beach is proof that it shouldn’t. With palm trees swaying above golden sands, it’s the definition of a tropical escape.
Why it stands out:
Traditional fales (thatched huts) available for overnight stays right on the beach
Vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling
Friendly locals who make you feel part of their island family
Falling asleep to the sound of waves just a few feet from my hut was one of the most peaceful nights I’ve ever had.
9. Tuamotu Atolls, French Polynesia
Not just one beach, but an entire chain of tiny coral atolls scattered across the Pacific. These are for travelers who crave seclusion.
Highlights:
Pristine, untouched sands with almost no crowds
Incredible diving spots with sharks, rays, and vibrant reefs
A true sense of being “off the grid”
If you want to disappear from the world and rediscover simplicity, the Tuamotus are where you go.
10. Cable Beach, Australia
Located in Broome, Western Australia, Cable Beach is famous for its fiery sunsets and unique camel rides along the shore.
Why it’s unforgettable:
The 22-kilometer stretch of white sand against red cliffs
Watching the sun dip into the Indian Ocean while riding a camel
Low tides that reveal dramatic tidal flats
It’s wild, rugged, and romantic all at once—a beach that stays etched in your memory.
Final Thoughts
Oceania is home to some of the most spectacular beaches on earth, each offering something unique. Some dazzle with postcard perfection (Whitehaven, Matira), others thrill with adventure (Ninety Mile, Bondi), while a few offer the kind of tranquility that makes you forget the outside world even exists (Tuamotus, Lalomanu).
For me, these beaches aren’t just places—they’re memories. The laughter of new friends in Fiji, the salt on my skin in Vanuatu, the hush of a New Zealand sunset. And that’s the beauty of Oceania: its beaches don’t just give you a view; they give you a story.
So whether you’re a surfer, a sunbather, or a wanderer in search of magic, Oceania has a beach waiting to welcome you.
