Hellfire Bay
Best Beach · WA
Tourism Australia's Best Beach 2026, No. 5.
Hellfire Bay, despite its blazing namesake, is one of those places that can cool you down just by staring into its pristine waters.
Tucked along Western Australia's remote south coast, about seven hours southeast of Perth, it's often mentioned in the same breath as nearby Lucky Bay and Wharton Beach — and for good reason. Set within Cape Le Grand National Park, the bay is framed by stunning granite headlands that shelter a stretch of dazzling white sand and gin-clear water. The contrast between the pale sand, rounded boulders, and cliff-face clashes is striking, and it charms with its light throughout the day. It's a kind of beach you don't want to rush at. Vehicles aren't permitted on the sand here, which helps keep the place feeling calm and untouched. Kangaroos regularly wander down to the shoreline, unfazed by visitors (though it's best to admire them from a distance), and dolphins are often spotted just beyond the break. On calmer days, swimming and snorkeling are popular, with conditions usually gentle compared to more exposed beaches nearby. Hellfire Bay attracts a mix of travellers — those slowly circling the country in vans and RVs, packed just the going concerned, families who've made the journey from Perth to experience WA's simplicity to switch off for a while. Creature comforts and camping supplies can be sourced from Esperance some 45 mins away. With both big Hellfire and Little Hellfire close by, this corner of the coast consistently leaves a lasting impression. It's simple, unspoilt, and quietly spectacular — exactly what many people come looking for, and rarely forget.
⚠️ Ocean conditions can change quickly and rips can form even on calm days. Only swim at patrolled beaches, and supervise children at all times.