Australia's Top Towns For 2025 Revealed

From sun-drenched beaches to heritage gems, these winners highlight Australia’s must-visit towns for the year ahead.

Each year, Wotif gathers intel from travel-savvy Aussies to spotlight trending towns on the rise. The 2025 winners have been revealed, with a NSW coastal destination taking the top spot and dethroning Bendigo, which reigned in 2024, while Albury held the crown in 2023. If you’re looking for your next adventure, start here.

1. Port Stephens, NSW

Windy sunset from Winda Woppa Reserve, overlooking Wind Woppa Lagoon and views to Mt Tomaree, Stephens Peak and Shoal Bay. — Port Stephens is Australia’s top town for 2025. (Image: Getty Images/lovleah)

Deservedly taking out the top spot, Port Stephens is famous for dolphin and whale watching, pristine beaches, towering sand dunes and its relaxed coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re tackling the Tomaree Head Summit Walk or dining on fresh seafood in Nelson Bay, there’s something for everyone in this dreamy destination. With not one, but three NSW towns on the list this year, Destination NSW Acting CEO Karen Jones says this recognition reinforces NSW’s position as a must-visit destination: “With three NSW towns – Port Stephens, Kingscliff, and Yamba – securing spots in Wotif’s top 10, more than any other state, it highlights the unrivalled diversity of experiences across regional NSW. From Kingscliff’s boutique coastal charm to Yamba’s laidback surf culture, our state offers a unique blend of experiences that resonate with visitors year after year."

2. Cairns, Qld

Golden hour over the ferris wheel, treetops, lagoon and hilly backdrop of the esplanade at Cairns - Coral Sea, Cairns; Far North Queensland, Australia — Cairns is a tropical playground packed with adventure. (Image: Getty Images/Jina Ihm)

A gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a tropical playground packed with adventure. Whether you’re snorkelling among vibrant marine life, chasing waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands or exploring the nearby Palm Cove, there’s no shortage of experiences to tick off your bucket list. Plus, with its thriving food scene and vibrant markets, Cairns is the heart of Tropical North Queensland.

3. Mandurah, WA

Santi Ikto by Thomas Dambo Giants of Mandurah — The Giants of Mandurah are a huge drawcard.

Just an hour south of Perth in south west WA, Mandurah is a dream location for boating, fishing and wildlife spotting. From exploring its Venetian-style canals to hopping on a dolphin cruise, Mandurah is all about getting out on the water. It’s also home to the renowned Giants of Mandurah, where visitors can see five striking large-scale art pieces by Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo.

4. Denmark, WA

Elephant Rocks in Denmark WA — Visit Elephant Rocks in Denmark. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

If you’re after breathtaking coastal scenery, boutique wineries and lush national parks, Denmark should be high on your list. This charming town is known for Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool, where turquoise waters meet dramatic rock formations. The region’s cool-climate wines and farm-fresh produce add to its appeal, making it a top pick for foodies and nature lovers alike.

5. Beechworth, Vic

Beechworth building in Victoria — Beechworth is one of Victoria’s most charming towns.

Steeped in gold rush history, Beechworth is one of Victoria’s most charming towns, filled with well-preserved heritage buildings and boutique shopping. But it’s not all about history – the town’s vibrant food scene, including the legendary Beechworth Bakery, is just as enticing.

6. Port Campbell, Vic

Ocean Rock Formation And Cliffs On Beach Against Sky In Great Ocean Road Australia — The Twelve Apostles are a sight to behold. (Image: Getty Images/EyeEm Mobile GmbH)

Home to the Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell is an essential stop along the Great Ocean Road. This small coastal town offers jaw-dropping views, rugged cliffs and iconic natural landmarks like the Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch. It’s also a great base for exploring the surrounding national parks and scenic lookouts.

7. Murray Bridge, SA

Monarto Safari Park is breathing life into Murray Bridge.

Sitting along the mighty Murray River, this South Australian town is all about waterfront relaxation and outdoor adventure. Home to the newly announced Monarto Safari Park, opening in May, Murray Bridge is about to be the 2025 destination.

8. Kingscliff, NSW

Kingscliff beach — Kingscliff is in NSW’s Tweed region.

Nestled on NSW’s Tweed Coast, Kingscliff is a laid-back beach town with an impressive food and wellness scene. The town is known for its white sandy beaches, top-notch surf breaks and fresh local produce – including the famous Tropical Fruit World.

9. Yamba, NSW

Horizontal high angle landscape photo of popular travel destination, Main Beach, Yamba, with people swimming, breaking waves, Pandanus palm trees, coastal scrub forest and Norfolk Pine trees growing on the grass areas above the beach. — Yamba is the go-to place to be in summer. (Image: Getty Images/lynnebeclu)

Yamba is a seaside escape known for its stunning beaches, coastal vibes and incredible seafood. It’s the kind of place where one visit turns into many.

10. Mackay, Qld

Aerial drone image at sunrise over Cape Hillsborough with blue water and green rainforest and nice morning warm sunlight — Base yourself in Mackay as you visit Cape Hillsborough. (Image: Getty Images/Sell Online Marketing)

Mackay is an underrated Queensland gem. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Whitsundays and Eungella National Park (home to wild platypuses). If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path Queensland adventure, Mackay delivers.

Why settle for another landlocked weekend away when you could spend a thrilling few days sipping cocktails poolside with friends and family, taking in a Broadway-style musical, and having once-in-a-lifetime adventures—all without leaving Australia?

Royal Caribbean’s summer 2025/26 season packs all the excitement and variety of a cruise holiday into a new lineup of weekend getaways. There’s something for everyone on board, from your mum who just wants to relax at a spa to your adrenaline-junkie mate who is keen to skydive in a simulator on the deck. With two world-class ships making debut voyages from Brisbane and Sydney, there’s never been a better time to plan the ultimate short getaway with a Royal Caribbean Australia cruise.

Why cruise?

Royal Caribbean Weekend Cruises cruising from Australia. — The ultimate adventure, close to home.

On a short cruise holiday, you’ll set sail with zero planning stress, booking drama, or traffic woes, knowing your itinerary is jam-packed with fine dining and adventure (or relaxation, if that’s more your vibe). And everyone’s needs will be catered to, from your parents to your gourmand partner to your toddler niece. All main meals* and most onboard activities are seamlessly included in your fare, from Royal Caribbean Entertainment to the Adventure Ocean® Kids’ Club.

The ship

Boy rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak on Royal Caribbean Weekend Cruises, excitement, thrills, effort, challenge, fun. — Scale new heights at sea with onboard rock climbing.

Sailing from Sydney for the first time, Anthem of the Seas® is an award-winning ship. It boasts 360-degree views from its thrilling North Star® observation capsule – the tallest viewing deck on any cruise ship, anywhere, stretching an astonishing 91 meters above the ocean. And it offers tailored adventures for families and friend groups alike.

Thrill-seekers can on the FlowRider® Surf Simulator, or try out the bumper cars. For those looking to chill, relax poolside at the adults-only Solarium with a cocktail in hand. Experience some culture and show-stopping entertainment with a Broadway-style production of We Will Rock You.

Or set sail aboard Voyager of the Seas® , making her debut voyages from Brisbane this summer with a turbo-charged slate of activities, including mini golf and ice skating, as well as The Perfect Storm℠ – a three-storey high-speed waterslide.

Onboard activities

meal at giovannis on a royal caribbean ship — The onboard dining scene is legendary.

Royal Caribbean’s onboard dining scene rivals what you’d find in any top global city, bringing top chefs and inventive flavours from around the world right to your ship’s deck. From Japanese sushi bars to old-world Italian joints, late-night cafes, private room service and five-course, white-tableclothed Chef’s Table culinary journeys, there’s something to suit every mood and palate.

For those craving relaxation, the Vitality℠ Spa and Fitness Centre offers a full menu of massages, facials, hair and nails, teeth whitening and even medi-spa treatments to plump skin and smooth wrinkles. Not to mention state-of-the-art gym facilities. Or take in the pristine views at the adults-only Solarium, a serene retreat space featuring tranquil pools and whirlpools.

Meanwhile, the thrill-seekers in your group can pack more adrenaline into three or four nights than most holidays do in a week. Royal Caribbean’s signature RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator* delivers the singular rush of a freefall without ever boarding a plane. And the 12-metre-long FlowRider® surf simulator lets everyone from beginner boogie-boarders to advanced shredders catch a wave without ever leaving the deck. Launch yourself down a multi-story waterslide against a backdrop of ocean views or grab the whole crew for Battle for Planet Z℠*, a glow-in-the-dark laser tag experience. Top it all off with rock climbing, ice skating, pickleball, or a game of basketball on the sports court.

When night falls, the drama amps up with a slate of award-winning shows: We Will Rock You, the Queen musical playing on board Anthem of the Seas®, or Ice Odyssey, a dazzling and futuristic spectacle performed on Voyager of the Seas® ’ very own ice rink. Or bar hop before catching some live music, a comedy show, a silent disco, an outdoor film night, and so much more.

Where can you sail?

people snorkelling on a day trip with royal caribbean cruises — Snorkel along the Great Barrier Reef.

Departing from Brisbane, take a four-night getaway to stunning Airlie Beach, Queensland on board Voyager of the Seas®. Along the way, spend time immersed in Airlie Beach, where you can take a Segway tour, hop on a glass-bottom boat and try an ocean rafting eco-adventure. Book a Shore Excursion and take a trip to the Whitsunday Islands for snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, or hike to secluded beaches in Molle National Park.

If you prefer to depart from Sydney, hop on board Anthem of the Seas® for a five-night holiday to Hobart, Tasmania. You’ll spend time docked in Hobart experiencing Tasmania’s other-worldly beauty and famous culinary scene, from hikes and horse rides on Mount Wellington to strolls through the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens to winery tours in the countryside and up-close encounters with Tasmanian devils.

Days at sea are a chance to create your own adventure and savour it all, from the ships’ astonishing breadth of dining experiences and activities to the serenity of the open seas to unhurried moments with loved ones – the most memorable part of any holiday.

Book a short getaway that everyone will love (and don’t compromise on forever memories) at RoyalCaribbean.com.au.

Australia’s top 10 towns for 2025 revealed