Plus, why you should plan a cruise in the Kimberley this year.
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Lonely Planet has just revealed the world's best beaches, across several categories. And needless to say, Australia has a starring role, with dream-worthy locations - from Lucky Bay in Western Australia's Esperance, which has been named the best beach for wildlife-spotting, to the Pass in Byron Bay, which has been ranked number five when it comes to family-friendly stretches right by the sea.
![Bondi has taken the top gong under two categories. Picture: Unsplash/Laura Barry Bondi has taken the top gong under two categories. Picture: Unsplash/Laura Barry](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/190394412/5e40920b-ffff-4e41-8f7a-ca1622886dc1.jpg/r0_1990_3712_4261_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Bondi - arguably the country's most famous beach - has taken the top gong under two categories: Top 5 Beaches Worth the Crowds and Top 5 Beaches to People Watch; while Tangalooma Beach on Queensland's Moreton Island has snagged the top spot when it comes to beaches with access to pristine nature. Discover other incredible locations in Australia and beyond in Lonely Planet's Best Beaches book. $49.99; booktopia.com.au
Luxe it up in the Kimberley
![A Ponant cruise in the Kimberley region. A Ponant cruise in the Kimberley region.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/190394412/86f053ca-776d-47ae-9e8f-59cb286171d2.jpeg/r0_0_1280_853_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
When it comes to cruising, Australia has the best of both worlds: summer and winter. In the warmer months, ships of some of the world's best cruise lines sail along our shores with itineraries that range from family-friendly holidays to adventurous getaways. With the advent of cold weather, though, the focus shifts to the Kimberley region. And this year's season is going to be bigger and better than ever, with some key players bringing brand-new ships to this rugged part of Western Australia. Sign up for Scenic's 11-day journey from Broome to Darwin aboard Scenic Eclipse II. Departing May 20, the culinary-themed cruise is hosted by renowned chefs Tom Gotter and Dale MacKay. Or book a 10-day voyage on Seabourn's expedition vessel, Pursuit, with rooms for just 264 guests. And if this winter is too close to book, Ponant has just put its 2025 Kimberley voyages on sale, aboard the ethereal Le Jacques-Cartier. scenic.com.au; seabourn.com; au.ponant.com
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