NSW coastal town set to outshine most popular Aussie holiday spots
As Australia fast approaches Easter and the school holidays, Expedia and Wotif have released the April Travel Outlook, revealing its most popular domestic destinations.
April is set to be the most popular holiday period of the year and beach getaways are still very much the top choice for travellers this time of year.
Domestically, Aussies are still favouring many of the popular destinations across QLD and NSW, but there are some new spots that are trending as well.
Here are the most popular domestic destinations for April - and the coastal suburb that's had a huge spike in interest.
10. Wollongong, NSW
Wollongong is a seaside city located south of Sydney in NSW. It is the 10th most popular destination for the Easter break.
9. Coffs Harbour, NSW
Coffs Harbour on the north coast of NSW is known for its beaches and, of course, the famous Big Banana monument and amusement park. It's a common stop on road trips for families and the ninth most popular destination right now.
8. Central Coast, NSW
The eight most popular spot - and the fourth highest trending right now - is the Central Coast of NSW. Towns like Terrigal and Avoca Beach offer expansive beaches and surfing. The Entrance and Tuggerah Lake, a saltwater wetland, are also well visited.
7. Byron Bay, NSW
Despite being impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred early last month, travellers continue to flock to the famous beachside town of Byron Bay on the far-north coast of NSW. It has surged in popularity again with a 51 per cent increase in accommodation interest (the third top trending overall).
6. Jervis Bay, NSW
With some of the whitest sand in the world, Hyams Beach, is one of the drawcards for visitors to Jervis Bay on the south coast of NSW. It's sixth most popular for holiday-makers this Easter period.
5. Port Stephens, NSW
Port Stephens in NSW has seen a 36 per cent increase in booking interest making it one of the top trending destinations right now. Overall it is the fifth most popular among Aussies this April.
4. Newcastle, NSW
Staying in coastal NSW, the city of Newcastle is the fourth most popular destination for Aussies right now. At the heart of the Hunter region, Newcastle blends the best of laid back coastal life, with a city bustling with restaurants, events and nightlife.
3. Cairns, QLD
In third place is Cairns in far north QLD offering travellers a gateway to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. It has also surged in popularity with a 63 per cent increase in bookings making it the second top trending destination overall.
2. Sunshine Coast, QLD
Also in Cyclone Alfred recovery mode, it hasn't put travellers off visiting the Sunshine Coast in QLD. It's the second most popular destination for Aussies in April.