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Australia’s top 10 emerging towns to visit before everyone else

Credit: Rhiannon Taylor

Imogen Eveson Imogen Eveson
You heard it here first – these under-the-radar towns are officially on the rise.

Not every great destination is a household name – yet. Across Australia, a new set of holiday hotspots is making waves, drawing travellers with their fresh energy, unique charm and evolving local scene. Voted by a panel of industry experts and well-travelled Aussies for Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit list, these destinations are tipped as the next big thing.

1. Bicheno, Tas

Overall rank: 1/100

Palawa/Tasmanian Aboriginal Country

Sea Stacks in Bicheno, Tas
Sea Stacks Bicheno are inspired by the natural surroundings of Tasmania’s east coast. (Credit: Rhiannon Taylor)

Anyone who has ever driven Tasmania’s east coast can attest to the magnetic pull of its natural beauty and relaxed seaside towns found en route. If you’ve stopped off in Bicheno in recent years, you’ll still find the little penguins on their nightly parade, the blowhole spouting, seafood served in abundance and prime whale-spotting – located as it is along the East Coast Whale Trail.

coastal views in Bicheno, Tas
Bicheno is a prime location for whale-spotting.

“A Tasmanian hidden gem, very much worth the drive from either Hobart or Launceston," says panellist Brett Godfrey of this old fishing port just north of the Freycinet Peninsula. But you’ll find it has a fresh buzz, too: making it worthy of its top spot on our list of 100 Best Aussie Towns to visit.

Le Gulch wine bar in Bicheno, Tas
Sample Tasmanian wines at the newly opened wine bar, Le Gulch.

From Waubs Harbour Distillery crafting whisky out of an old oyster hatchery to new wine bar Le Gulch, set in an old fishing factory, a fresh batch of businesses is bottling its spirit. And Sea Stacks Bicheno is about to swing open its doors (with bookings due to open from June 2026), bringing design-forward accommodation to town.

Don’t miss: “I get hungry just thinking about this town," says panellist Catriona Rowntree. “Head to Lobster Shack Tasmania and thank me later!"

2. Kalbarri, WA

Overall rank: 19/100

Nanda Country

the Kalbarri Skywalk from above
Admire the expansive views from the vertiginous platforms at Kalbarri Skywalk. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

“Epic cliffs and stunning gorges," is how panellist Irene Jones describes the appeal of Kalbarri/Wurdimarlu. This Coral Coast town is on the map for its dramatic convergence of ocean and outback. New tourism infrastructure, including the spectacular Kalbarri Skywalk (completed 2020) suspended over the Murchison River Gorge and an ongoing Foreshore Revitalisation Project, which will include the restoration of Nanda cultural site Gidamarra Spring, is securing Kalbarri as one of Australia’s premier tourism towns.

Don’t miss: Wildflower season, from late winter through to spring.

3. New Norfolk, Tas

Overall rank: 36/100

Palawa/Tasmanian Aboriginal Country

The Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk, Tas
The award-winning Agrarian Kitchen is a beloved temple to Tasmanian produce. (Credit: Luke Burgess)

Over the years, this historic riverside town in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley has reinvented itself through its food, drink and antiques scenes. Award-winning dining destination and cooking school The Agrarian Kitchen continues to push New Norfolk’s narrative from its home within the ever-evolving Willow Court precinct, a former asylum that connects past to present.

Don’t miss: Your chance for a spot of vintage shopping. If you love contributing to the circular economy, this is your kind of town, says Catriona Rowntree. “Just keep plenty of space in your luggage, and yes, they do ship!"

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4. Katherine, NT

Overall rank: 37/100

Jawoyn, Dagoman & Wardaman Country

Baruwei Lookout at Nitmiluk Gorge
Take in jaw-dropping views from Baruwei Lookout at Nitmiluk Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/Safari Global)

Known for its intersection of Aboriginal cultures and pastoral history, this Top End town delivers a double drawcard of muscle-soothing hot springs and the breathtaking Nitmiluk Gorge right on its doorstep, as highlighted by panellist Paul Ah Chee. But Katherine is also emerging as a hotspot for coffee snobs. A growing collection of cafes – such as Finch Cafe, Maidens Lane and The Black Russian Caravan Bar – is punching well above its weight in the flat white stakes.

Don’t miss: Many Aussies will drive hundreds of kilometres for a decent coffee, but the reason you’re really here is Nitmiluk Gorge. For this alone, panellist Adrian Williams rates Katherine 11/10.

5. Healesville, Vic

Overall rank: 57/100

Wurundjeri Country

Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Healesville, Vic
Panoramic views from every vantage point at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat. (Credit: Dominey Flores)

“Once famous for its wildlife sanctuary, the ripple effect now offers brilliant food and wine alongside a calmer pace of life," says panellist Catriona Rowntree of this charming Yarra Valley town that has all the ingredients for the perfect weekend getaway. Dine in a converted cabinet makers factory at No.7 Healesville and stop in for a limoncello spritz at recently opened Zoncello Yarra Valley. Check into Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, where each mudbrick cabin features its own all-local wine bar and larder.

Don’t miss: Panellist Adrian Williams recommends checking out the platypus at Healesville Sanctuary, which he describes as one of Australia’s great zoos. While for panellist Paul Hamra, the Four Pillars Gin distillery is a standout experience.

6. Terrigal, NSW

Overall rank: 73/100

Darkinjung Country

the Terrigal Boardwalk
Waves break against Terrigal Boardwalk. (Credit: Megann Evens)

The Central Coast’s glow-up is continuing apace and nowhere is it more evident than in Terrigal: a sea-changer’s dream of golden sands paired with an increasingly buzzy social scene centred on its Norfolk pine-lined esplanade. “It’s the perfect mix of beach, cafes, boutique shops, wine bars and restaurants," says panellist Katie Carlin. Opened late last year, the Terrigal Pavilion (known as the Pav) is a multi-level dining destination right on the beachfront that cements its status as a place on the ascendant.

beachside dining tables at the Terrigal Pavilion, NSW
Dine al fresco with unbeatable beachside views. (Credit: Kitti Gould)

Don’t miss: Golden hour at The Tropic – the Pav’s must-try Mediterranean-influenced restaurant.

7. Stanthorpe, Qld

Overall rank: 78/100

Kambuwal Country

hiking near Stanthorpe
Get a bird’s-eye view of the Granite Belt. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

When we think wine in Australia, we don’t often think Queensland. Stanthorpe lies at the heart of the Granite Belt, which – under three hours west of Brisbane – is not only the country’s highest wine region, atop the Great Dividing Range, but also among its most under-the-radar. This cool-climate enclave is winning accolades for its rare, alternative varietals. Add to that abundant fresh produce to enjoy at farm-to-table or pick-your-own experiences, plus eclectic accommodations, and it makes for one of Australia’s most unique country getaways.

Don’t miss: The chance to stay in Australia’s first luxury wine barrel accommodation – Barrel View Luxury Cabins – in nearby Ballandean.

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8. Woolgoolga, NSW

Overall rank: 88/100

Gumbaynggirr Country

the Woolgoolga Beach, NSW
Woolgoolga Beach is one of the region’s most quintessential Aussie beaches.

This Coffs Coast gem offers everything you could want from a beachy getaway: unspoilt sands framed by a dramatic headland, and activities – from swimming, surfing, fishing and snorkelling to walking, cycling and whale-watching – in and out of the water. Plus a village of cafes, bakeries and even a distillery. Panellist Brad Farmer let the cat out of the bag when he crowned Woolgoolga the best mainland beach in the official list of Best Australian Beaches for 2025.

Don’t miss: Underpinning life in Woopi, as it’s known locally, is its multicultural community – the town is home to Australia’s largest regional Sikh/Punjabi population. Visit the Sikh Heritage Museum of Australia or time your visit for the annual Curryfest in September.

9. Goulburn, NSW

Overall rank: 99/100

Gundungurra & Ngunnawal Country

an outdoor setup at the Goulburn Brewery
The Goulburn Brewery is known as the home of Wayback beer.

While history is built into the foundations of Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city is evolving. Two hours from Sydney and an hour from Canberra, it has long been known as a stopover, with the landmark Big Merino symbolising its status as a major wool centre. But planned CBD upgrades and renewed heritage buildings – including the Goulburn Brewery, one of the mainland’s oldest, which reopened in 2025 after a two-year restoration – are giving visitors more reason to make it their destination.

Don’t miss: Goulburn is an essential pit stop on any NSW road trip, says panellist Rae Johnston. She recommends hitting up The Big Merino for wool supplies and Trappers Bakery for the veggie pie.

10. Ballina, NSW

Overall rank: 100/100

Bundjalung Country

surfers in Ballina, NSW
Ballina is a surf haven. (Credit: Elise Hassey)

Long considered the gateway town to its famous neighbour, Ballina has always had the beaches to rival Byron Bay. And now it’s got some of the coastal-cool lifestyle to match with businesses serving fresh energy – see the newly renovated Shaws Bay Hotel and oceanside Italian diner Capiche. “Underrated, as it is often thought of as the transit centre for the Northern Rivers region," panellist Paul Hamra says of Ballina. “A quieter version of Byron Bay with a beautiful coast and vibrant, artistic community."

Don’t miss: Getting out on the water with Out of the Blue Adventures for whale-watching and dolphin-spotting.

This article is part of Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit, as chosen by a panel of industry experts, well-known Aussies and travel insiders. See our full list of 100 best Aussie towns here and visit the special 100 best Aussie towns hub here.
Imogen Eveson
Imogen Eveson is Australian Traveller’s Print Editor. She was named Editor of the Year at the 2024 Mumbrella Publish Awards and in 2023, was awarded the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) Australia’s Media Award. Before joining Australian Traveller Media as sub-editor in 2017, Imogen wrote for publications including Broadsheet, Russh and SilverKris. She launched her career in London, where she graduated with a BA Hons degree in fashion communication from world-renowned arts and design college Central Saint Martins. She is the author/designer of The Wapping Project on Paper, published by Black Dog Publishing in 2014. Growing up in Glastonbury, home to the largest music and performing arts festival in the world, instilled in Imogen a passion for cultural cross-pollination that finds perfect expression today in shaping Australia’s leading travel titles. Imogen regularly appears as a guest on radio travel segments, including ABC National Nightlife, and is invited to attend global travel expos such as IMM, ILTM, Further East and We Are Africa.
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Exploding supernovas & gold fever: discover the past at this outback Qld town

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

    While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

    Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

    Getting there

    car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland
    Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

    You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

    Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

    Best accommodation in Clermont

    Theresa CreekDam in clermont
    Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

    Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

    To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn.

    Things to do in Clermont

    three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting
    Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

    One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters, Four Mile, Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings. To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting. They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

    Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum. Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

    The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

    Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland
    See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

    Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services. Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

    Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs. The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

    Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

    meal at Commercial Hotel
    Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

    Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

    Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

    For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

    Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

    Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.