It’s that time of year again—when we fire up the road trip playlist and shine a spotlight on Australia’s top trending destinations for the year ahead. The Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards are back for their eighth legendary year, celebrating this year’s must-visit spots.** Need an excuse to pack the car (or book that flight) and explore more of your own backyard? We’ve got you.
And here’s the cherry on top—you can score 25% or more off select hotels with Mates Rates*! But first, let’s explore where your next great getaway should be…
1. Port Stephens, NSW
All hail Port Stephens, our Aussie Town of the Year WINNER for 2025! And honestly, it’s no surprise why. Just over two hours from Sydney (or a quick 30-minute hop from Newcastle Airport), this coastal paradise brings the wow factor. Think pristine beaches, epic lookouts, and the jaw-dropping Stockton Sand Dunes—the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Hikers, don’t miss Tomaree National Park, and foodies, get ready to feast at The Poyer’s, NSW’s top seafood spot. Oh, and if you’re up for more, hop on an award-winning cruise to take in the stunning coastline from a whole new perspective. Port Stephens has it all—experience the Aussie Town of the Year for yourself!
The place to be: Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
2. Cairns, QLD
Back in the spotlight after its 2021 win, Cairns is once again strutting its stuff on this year’s awards list! As one of the ultimate gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is your go-to for snorkeling that’ll blow your mind. Short on time? A half-day tour lets you experience the reef and be back before you know it! Once you’re done making waves, head to the newly opened Mexicairns—the ultimate social hub to chill, sip, and feast. Trust us, Cairns is bringing the heat in all the best ways.
Unwind in style: Crystalbrook Riley
3. Mandurah, WA
Just an hour south of Perth, this coastal playground is serving up endless ways to make a splash. With an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour (yep, twice), spending time on the water is a must. ️Try a sunrise kayaking tour, cruise on water bikes, or take a dip in the Insta-worthy Kwillena Gabi pool. And when you’re done soaking up the views, go on a treasure hunt for the Giants of Mandurah—an epic outdoor art installation sticking around until 2026. Big vibes, bigger adventures—who’s in?
Post play stay: Nautica Residences Mandurah
4. Denmark, WA
Nature, wine, and a pub with a glow-up? Say less. Perched on WA’s stunning Southwest Coast, Denmark is all about jaw-dropping scenery—think the turquoise waters of Greens Pool and the epic Elephant Rocks (yep, they really look like elephants). But wait, there’s more! New vineyard tours with bespoke experiences are popping up, and the newly renovated Denmark Hotel has had a serious glow-up—so get ready to sip, soak, and explore!
Rest up: Denmark Hotel
5. Beechworth, VIC
This historic gold rush town (just three hours from Melbourne) sits at the foot of the Aussie Alps, serving up all the charm, adventure, and drool-worthy eats you could ask for. Start your day with a famous Beechworth Bakery beesting (trust us, one is never enough), sip your way through local wineries, then hit the Indigo Epic Mountain bike trails for a ride that’s as thrilling as its name suggests. Coastal towns, step aside—Beechworth is coming in hot!
Recharge here: Beechworth Motor Inn
6. Port Campbell, VIC
Buckle up, because big things are happening at this coastal gem! A brand-new viewing platform at the 12 Apostles? A fresh trail linking Port Campbell to Timboon? And coming soon—the Loch Ard Gorge Blowhole lookout, guaranteed to blow your mind (literally). Foodies, don’t worry—we haven’t forgotten you. The 12 Apostles Food Artisan Trail is serving up the freshest local bites, and Crayfest is bringing the party with top-tier seafood, live music, and local art. Honestly, if this lineup doesn’t have you itching to visit, we don’t know what will!
Sleep by the sea: Sea Foam Villas
7. Murray Bridge, SA
Just a hop, skip, and an hour from Adelaide, this riverside beauty is packing big adventure energy. Where else can you feed lions at Monarto Safari Park (yep, the biggest open-range zoo in Australia), dine riverside, and stargaze like a pro—all in one trip? Honestly, say less—we’re already packing our bags. Who’s coming?!
Catch some Z’s: Bridgeport Hotel
8. Kingscliff, NSW
Only 15 minutes south of the QLD border, this Tweed Coast stunner is serving up more than just postcard-perfect beaches. Sure, it’s a dreamy resort town, but scratch the surface, and you’ll find seaside markets, award-winning eats, and endless ways to make a splash. Oh, and here’s a tasty little bonus – Kingscliff is playing host to the Savour The Tweed food and drink festival later in the year. So, who’s up for a trip? We’ll save you a seat (and a cocktail)!
Settle in: Blue Water Motel
9. Yamba, NSW
A beach town with main character energy! Surrounded by national parks, pristine beaches, and surf spots, Yamba is pure coastal magic. Whether you’re chasing waves at Main Beach, browsing the Yamba markets, paddling down the Clarence River, or soaking up the vibes at the region’s first-ever bathhouse (fancy, huh?), there’s something for everyone. So, round up your mates and get ready for a good time!
Kick back: The Sands Resort
10. Mackay, QLD
The cat’s outta the bag! This tropical stunner is home to Australia’s longest stretch of subtropical rainforest (yep, longest – let that sink in) and one of the country’s most iconic wildlife experiences, the Cape Hillsborough Wallaby Experience. Sunrise selfies with wallabies? Tick! With nature, adventure, and culture all in one spot, Mackay’s got everything. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get amongst it.
Unwind here: Quest Mackay on Gordon
A big congrats to Port Stephens and all our incredible finalists!
FIND YOUR FAVOURITE AUSSIE GETAWAY
*Sale ends 31 March. T&Cs apply. Deals for Wotif members are valid for travel until 8/9/2025. Selected properties only. Book by 31/3/2025 11:59pm in the hotel property’s local time. Stay between 25/02/2025-8/9/2025. Wotif Mates Rates are available to logged in Wotif account holders and Wotif app users. Travel restrictions, limited availability, blackout periods apply.
Behind the research:
Wotif research commissioned in collaboration with YouGov. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1,024 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 13th – 15th January 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Australian adults (aged 18+).
**About the 2025 Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Award index:
Trending traveller interest: Based on accommodation searches on Wotif.com in 2024, compared to 2023
Affordability: Based on the average daily rate for accommodation demand on Wotif from January to November 2024
Accommodation: Based on accommodation quality and quantity on Wotif in 2024
Reviews: Based on the average traveller review rating on Wotif for each destination in 2024
