‘Worst list ever’: Karl Stefanovic slams decision to crown Bate Bay in Sydney as Australia’s best beach

Australia’s best beach for 2026 has been crowned, but not everyone is happy with the choice. From 12,000 Australian beaches and a 130-point evaluation ranking criteria, Brad Farmer AM, who has spent decades researching and visiting Australia’s diverse range of beaches, has created a top 10. He has given the prestigious No.1 spot to Bate Bay in Sydney’s south. But this spot is not one single beach, instead encompassing nine other beaches along a stretch of the Sutherland Shire coastline. The top choice has already attracted controversy. “I think it’s the worst list I’ve ever seen,” Karl Stefanovic said during an interview with Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell. “It’s a terrific beach. I don’t agree with you there,” Mr Farrell responded. Bate Bay is a 5km stretch of nine pristine beaches in the Sutherland Shire including Greenhills, Wanda, Elouera, North Cronulla and Gunnamatta Bay. “This huge honour highlights our coastline’s natural beauty, easy access to local public transport, surf culture, vibrant lifestyle and strong community connection,” Sutherland Shire Mayor Jack Boyd said. Second place in the rankings was held by Pinky Beach in Western Australia, followed by Beachcomber Cove (Queensland), Tallow Beach (NSW), Hellfire Bay (WA), Godfreys Beach (Tasmania), Inskip Point Queensland), Mount Martha (Victoria), Smoky Bay (South Australia) and Ellery Creek Big Hole (Northern Territory). “This year’s list is a celebration of the quiet, soulful spots that define our coastal identity and offer a true escape for those willing to wander a little further,” Mr Farmer said. Tourists have always had love affair with Australian beaches, with many swarming the country to get a glimpse of the beautiful water and warm sand. “Our beaches are just one of the many attractions that bring in international visitors to our state … last year our visitor economy soared past $59.4bn, and being named the home of Australia’s Best Beach in 2026 is a huge boost to attracting more visitors,” NSW Tourism Minister Steve Kamper said.