Australia’s most-loved holiday state.

Queensland has officially been crowned the country’s best holiday destination, taking home six major awards in Australian Traveller’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, more than any other state or territory.

The Sunshine State dominated across categories celebrating the country’s best travel experiences. The trophy haul was led by Noosa, which claimed Best Town to Visit thanks to its relaxed yet refined coastal lifestyle, world-class dining, and natural beauty that continues to charm travellers year after year.

Further north, Hamilton Island made a double appearance – taking out both Best Island Escape and Best Resort Destination. With its postcard-perfect Whitsundays setting, luxury stays like qualia and The Sundays, and easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island has become synonymous with the quintessential Aussie island getaway.

Meanwhile, the Gold Coast was voted Best Family Holiday Spot, recognised for its unbeatable mix of beaches, theme parks and entertainment for all ages. The family-friendly streak continued with Sea World Resort, which took home Best Family Accommodation, solidifying Queensland’s reputation as Australia’s playground for families.

Not to be outdone, Whitehaven Beach – the jewel of the Whitsundays – was crowned Best Beach. Its dazzling white silica sand and turquoise waters remain a bucket-list experience for domestic and international travellers alike.

The other state standouts

New South Wales came in second with five major wins, spanning everything from indulgence to the outdoors. Mudgee was named Best Country Escape, the Blue Mountains took Best Walk or Hike Destination, and Byron Bay was crowned Best Destination for Wellness. Meanwhile, Sydney dominated its home turf, with the Park Hyatt Sydney recognised as Best Hotel and Sydney Airport named Best Airport to Spend Time In.

Victoria followed closely with four wins, all anchored by the powerhouse appeal of Melbourne/Naarm. The city took out Best City to Visit, Best Cultural or Arts Experience and Best Foodie Experience, while the Great Ocean Road secured Best Road Trip, proving that Victoria continues to punch well above its weight when it comes to urban culture and coastal adventure.

South Australia and the Northern Territory tied for three wins each. The Barossa Valley reaffirmed its world-class reputation as Best Wine Region, the Adelaide Fringe lit up the events calendar as Best Festival to Travel For, and The Ghan – shared between SA and the NT – was voted Best Rail Journey. The NT’s other two wins went to Uluṟu, which dominated with Best Outback Destination and Best First Nations Experience, underscoring its powerful cultural and natural significance.

Western Australia took home two titles, with Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef named Best Glamping or Off-Grid Experience and The Kimberley – chosen by Australian Traveller editors – receiving the coveted Editors’ Choice Award.

And finally, Tasmania/Lutruwita earned one well-deserved nod as Best Under-the-Radar Destination, proving that smaller states can still make a big impact.

With thousands of votes cast nationwide, the results confirm what travellers already know: when it comes to dream holidays, Queensland reigns supreme.

Explore the full list of winners and runners-up.