There’s nothing quite like spending a sunny day at the beach. Unfortunately, most people feel the same way, meaning crowded car parks, loud music and all the prime spots being taken! That’s why finding a hidden beach is such a blessing, and we’re here to bless your summer.
Lonely Planet compiled a list of the 100 bes beaches in Australia, with a section dedicated to secret beaches. One of them is a short yet picturesque drive from Brisbane, so it’s a rare case of something being about the journey and the destination!
Seventy Five Mile Beach
You would, of course, be forgiven for thinking Seventy Five Mile Beach is 75 miles long, but its name is actually misleading. While it is quite a long beach, this gorgeous stretch of sand is actually 75 kilometres, which is “only” 46 and a half miles, approximately.
Despite its beauty and inviting waters, the one drawback of this secluded spot is that it is not a safe place to swim, due to dangerous currents and its large shark population. However, there are plenty of other things to do, plus spots nearby where you can scratch that swimming itch.
Fishing is one of the main attractions of Seventy Five Mile Beach, and it’s best done from August to October, when the Tailor Run brings fishers from all over the region to try to catch the best and biggest tailor fish.
If you’re giving fishing a try, we recommend looking for deep holes near the beach — where fish can escape to deeper waters — with clear water and foam from the waves on the surface.
Because it’s technically a highway, driving on Seventy Five Mile Beach is one of the biggest thrills you could experience! You will need a 4WD, either your own or on a guided tour, to cruise along this sandy road, and will need to be careful of the tides — some places might be inaccessible at high tide — and any hidden bumps along the way, but we can guarantee you’re in for a fun time.
If you’re feeling up for exploring beyond the beach, you’re in luck! The Maheno shipwreck is waiting to be discovered nearby, the stunning Champagne Pools beckon with their clear waters — which are safe for swimming, although we still recommend you only do so during low tide — and striking volcanic rock formation Indian Head towers over it all.
As for wildlife, K’gari, where Seventy Five Mile Beach is located, is home to a large number of dingos, which you can admire from a safe distance and, if you go during the winter months, there’s a high chance you may spot majestic humpback whales breaching as they migrate!
Getting there
Only a 3-hour drive from Brisbane — and a potential stop on one of Queensland’s most sought-after road trips — Seventy Five Mile Beach is the perfect stop for the adventurous, reachable only by 4WD vehicle.
While you’re there, you can’t miss out on the rest of K’Gari. Walk along McKenzie’s jetty circuit, or even venture out to the 90km K’gari Great Walk, but be sure to be prepared, as it takes 6 to 8 days to complete! If you’re in relaxation mode, Lake McKenzie is nestled among the rainforest, and its turquoise waters are infused with natural tea tree oil, creating an idyllic swimming sanctuary. Or grab a floaty drift down lazy Eli Creek, whose natural current takes you on an effortless, weightless journey back to Seventy-Five Mile Beach.