The Indigenous land of Jellurgal in the very heart of the Gold Coast has long been known as one of the best beach towns for its surfing culture and first-rate point-break. Swells aside, take a stroll down James Street to sample one of the many cafes, eateries and boutique shops. Bonus points if you’re there on a Sunday to visit the bi-monthly pop-up market, The Village Markets. Burleigh Heads National Park is also a must-visit for a spot of whale watching when conditions are just right.

You won’t find a single set of traffic lights in this charming little seaside town. Flanked by a national park on one side and the world’s largest coral reef on the other side, Mission Beach deserves the title of one of the best beach towns in Queensland. Thrill-seekers can cycle the 12 km Musgravea Trail or take to the skies with a cheeky skydive. While those looking for something a little more slow pace can bliss out on the beach or in one of the many natural swimming holes.

Bay, beach, park and river – Noosa Heads has it all. Home to the Kabi Kabi people, walk the trails of Noosa National Park, splash around the clear waters of Laguna Bay, take your pick at one of the many waterfront restaurants and meander through plenty of boutique shopping. End your evening at Noosa Spit for a spectacular view of the sun setting that’ll rival anything the west coast has to offer.

Don’t let this tiny North Queensland town fool you. What Palm Cove lacks in size makes up for in beauty by tenfold. Shaded by ancient Melaleuca trees, this uncrowded patch of paradise is just the spot to unwind along the sandy shores. If that’s not enough, treat yourself at the award-winning Vie Spa located in the Pullman resort. Go on, you deserve it.

It’s little wonder why Port Douglas in the Yirrganydji territory is still considered one of the best beach towns in the country. Close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree National Park makes this laid-back spot the ideal base for exploring the natural wonder of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its prime location comes with the territory – expect crowds so consider visiting during the winter months when temperatures are still hitting highs of the mid-20s.

This coastal town lives up to its colourful namesake thanks to the rainbow-hued sandy beachside cliffs that line the coastline. Take a drive along Rainbow Beach to take in these mammoth sand dunes before making your way to the scenic spot of Carlo Sand Blow, made famous by its moon-like landscape. When you’re ready for a feed, the homemade pasta at Arcobaleno on the Beach will go down a treat.

What do Rio de Janeiro, Mauritius and the coastal town of Yeppoon have in common? They all share the same line of latitude resulting in stunning subtropical climates. This central Queensland town along the Capricorn coastline is home to glistening corals and an abundance of marine life. Head into the town centre for a dip in the public lagoon, a spot of op shopping and a bite to eat at one of the many beach-side cafes.

The largely untouched coastal town of Bowen in North Queensland is often referred to as “the jewel” in the Whitsundays crown. With eight different beaches to choose from within ten minutes, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to swimming, exploring, snorkelling or just lounging on the sand. Australia’s affinity for comically large fruit structures extends to Bowen where you’ll find the Big Mango. We reckon that in itself deserves a mention in our Instagram Stories dump.