Is Australia's Most Cherished Beach at Risk of Being Overrun? The Case of Squeaky Beach
Squeaky Beach, a pristine stretch of white quartz sands on the east side of Wilsons Promontory National Park in Victoria, has been named Australia's best beach by Tourism Australia in 2024 and runner-up in Lonely Planet's list of the world's best beaches in 2025. Its unique feature, the squeaking sound made by the sand when walked upon, has become a major draw for visitors.
However, the beach's newfound popularity has raised concerns among advocates and locals. The rapid increase in visitor numbers, from an estimated 400,000 in 2024 to over 600,000 expected this year, has led to a range of issues, including an influx of rubbish, illegal parking, traffic congestion, and vandalism. The beach's delicate sand dunes, which are vital ecosystems and cultural heritage sites, are also under threat.
The story of Squeaky Beach highlights a broader issue: the challenge of managing natural wonders in the face of growing tourism. As more people discover and love these places, the risk of them being 'loved to death' increases. This phenomenon is not unique to Squeaky Beach; similar concerns have been raised about other popular natural attractions, such as the Blue Mountains, where a K-pop star's Instagram post led to a surge in visitors, causing significant damage to the environment.
The solution lies in sustainable management. Parks Victoria has launched a consultation to develop a new management plan for Wilsons Promontory, aiming to limit visitor numbers to ensure the park's long-term sustainability. However, the state government has delayed the draft plan, and the number of park rangers and staff has decreased, making it challenging to manage the increasing visitor numbers effectively.
The case of Squeaky Beach serves as a reminder that while tourism can bring economic benefits, it must be managed responsibly to preserve the natural environment and cultural heritage for future generations.
