This ‘breathtaking’ Aussie beach has been named second best in the world – and many don’t even know it exists

A beautiful Aussie beach has been voted the second best beach in the world, even though many locals have never heard of it.

Stokes Bay, on the north coast of South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, is a hidden gem found at the end of a maze of rocks.

The crystal clear waters and sheltered rock pools create a tranquil paradise that welcomes adventurous travelers from Australia and around the world.

Enjoy travelinga global travel authority, awarded the beach second place out of 50 for its perfect water and sand, unique location and abundant wildlife.

New Zealand’s Piha Beach – a breathtaking tourist haven in Auckland known for its black sand and famous Lion Rock – took first place.

Stokes Bay is located on the north coast of Kangaroo Island in South Australia, a 30-minute flight from Adelaide or a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis

Upon arrival in Stokes Bay, visitors wander through a maze-like rock passage before emerging onto sun-drenched sand and water ‘as clear as glass’.

“The short walk to the beach has to be experienced to be believed, and then the beach with its perfect rolling waves and rock pools,” said a recent visitor.

‘Simply divine.’

Stokes Bay’s rock formations provide shelter from the rougher surf around Kangaroo Island and create a safe, shallow pool, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

This also makes it a great place for families to visit with children.

The rock formations of Stokes Bay provide shelter from the rougher surf around Kangaroo Island

A sunset over Stokes Bay is a sight to behold

The beautiful bay was also declared Tourism Australia’s best beach for 2023.

Stokes Bay is not only a dream destination for beach lovers, but is also home to white-bellied sea eagles and ringed plovers, as well as countless marine animals such as dolphins.

More adventurous visitors can also spend hours exploring the rugged coastline and cliffs.

The popular nearby Rockpool Cafe offers fantastic kiosk style food and fresh fish and is an ideal spot for a takeaway beach picnic.

Visit the bay and explore the winding roads of Kangaroo Island

Reviewers also describe the beach and surrounding Kangaroo Island as a ‘perfect’ natural setting for photography enthusiasts.

‘A beautiful beach and a great place to take beautiful photos, even when the water is too cold to swim in!’ one reviewer gushed.

Another who saw a pod of dolphins just 50 yards offshore called Stokes Bay an “excellent gem of a beach.”

“Straight to my bucket list,” wrote another.

Kangaroo Island is a quick 30-minute flight from Adelaide.

There is also a 45 minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw, where you can drive to Stokes Bay on closed roads in an hour and twenty minutes, or take a taxi or shuttle service.