Australia's Best Beach 2023

Stokes Bay, Kangaroo Island

Stokes Bay on Kangaroo Island has been announced as Australia's Best Beach 2023 today by beach expert Brad Farmer for Tourism Australia, and we know exactly why it has come in as number 1.

In a secluded bay on the North Coast of Kangaroo Island, some 50kms from Kingscote sits the unexpecting beach of Stokes Bay. Just getting there is an adventure, as you travel along some of the Island's best coastline. The North Coast is spectacular.

On arrival to Stokes Bay, it could fool people into perhaps keeping on driving. The car park sits amongst the dunes in front of a bouldered beach - not so much to look at here, not even sand. Follow the sign to the Beach though, through a pathway of massive boulders, this adventure builds your excitement, "just what will you find on the other side?" That is a tranquil beach, with pounding surf and a protected giant rockpool.

Stokes Bay Rockpool
Stokes Bay, Kangaroo Island

Stokes Bay is a brilliant beach for families. The rockpool provides a safe shallow area for kids to swim and snorkel. The headland rocks can be explored and swum through for hours on end. It feels like you are nowhere else. The surf beach is great for surfing and beach fishing.

What makes Stokes Bay even more brilliant, is that the Rockpool Cafe is located near the car park. So, for those days when you need to wander off for some of the best fish and chips the Island can offer, or just ice-cream or drink, this is perfect!

Take a tour on the ocean

Want to stay nearby

All Island Stays

  • Stowaway Kangaroo Island

    • North Coast
    Retreat and Lodges
    Stowaway is comprised of two luxury self contained lodges situated on 200 acres near Stokes Bay.
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  • Stokes Bay Camp Ground

    • North Coast
    Caravan, Camping and Holiday Parks
    The camp ground is located on the north coast of Kangaroo Island, about 38kms west of Kingscote. Explore nature by walking…
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  • Snellings View

    • North Coast
    Holiday Houses
    Snellings View offers two beautifully appointed homes connected by a central reception-style entrance.
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  • Topdeck at Snelling Beach

    • North Coast
    Holiday Houses
    Just moments from idyllic Snelling Beach, Topdeck is a spacious and light-filled four-bedroom home sleeping up to ten adults.
    Read more

  • Sky House LifeTime Private Retreats

    • North Coast
    Apartments, Holiday Houses, Retreat and Lodges
    LifeTime Private Retreats offers tailored long and short term luxury private accommodation - set in stunning Australian…
    Read more

  • Wander on Kangaroo Island

    • North Coast
    Retreat and Lodges
    Transformational travel with luxury, eco-aware accommodation. Wander reconnects its guests with the local community and country.
    Read more
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