These are the 'top Aussie towns' to visit in 2025
If you're craving a small town getaway not too far from home, one of these Aussie hidden gems could be your next travel destination.
Wotif's list of the top 10 Aussie towns to visit in 2025 span five states, with plenty of stunning beaches and nature, historical monuments, and food trails to explore.
Read on to find out the top 10 Aussie towns for 2025.
10. Mackay, QLD
After eight years, the inaugural Wotif Aussie Town of the Year winner returns. Home to Australia's longest stretch of subtropical rainforest and one of Australia's most iconic wildlife activities, the Cape Hillsborough Wallaby Experience, the secret is well and truly out on this Queensland gem.
With so many nature, adventure and cultural experiences at your fingertips, Mackay is the ultimate travel destination, home to some of the best hiking, fishing, events, and mountain biking.
9. Yamba, NSW
At the mouth of the Clarence River on the North Coast of NSW, Yamba is a nostalgic beach town surrounded by national parks, pristine beaches and top surf spots.
Whether you want to surf at Main Beach, visit the Yamba markets, kayak the Clarence River, or relax in the region's first (and new) bathhouse, there is something for everyone.
8. Kingscliff, NSW
Along Tweed's stunning coastline in northern NSW, only 15-minutes south of the Queensland border, lies Kingscliff.
While many know it as a charming resort town, celebrated for its pristine beaches, there is more to explore with seaside markets, award-winning restaurants, endless aquatic adventures, in addition to being one of the hosts for the new food and drink festival, Savour The Tweed.
7. Murray Bridge, VIC
Less than an hour from Adelaide and nestled on the banks of the Murray River, Murray Bridge is full of breathtaking scenery and diverse experiences for everyone.
Spend your visit at Murray Bridge feeding lions at the Monarto Safari Park, the biggest open-range zoo in Australia and largest Safari Park outside of Africa, dining riverfront or experiencing one of the best spots to explore the cosmos in South Australia.
6. Port Campbell, VIC
There's a lot to be excited for in Port Campbell this year.
The newly open viewing platform at the iconic 12 Apostles and a trail connecting Port Campbell to Timboon is already impressing travellers, while the soon to open Loch Ard Gorge's Blowhole lookout is set to revitalise the area.
For the foodie lovers, the 12 Apostles Food Artisan Trail is a wonderful showcase of fresh local produce, while the Crayfest festival celebrates the region's food and drink, local music and art.
5. Beechworth, VIC
Beechworth's spot on the awards list proves there's more than just the coastline to explore this year.
The historic gold rush town sits three hours' drive from Melbourne at the foot of the Australian Alps, the highest mountain range in the country, and offers an unmatched inland experience.
Whether it's a trip to the bakery to sample their famous beestings, visiting local Beechworth wineries, or enjoying the world-class Indigo Epic Mountain bike trails, Beechworth is the ultimate country town getaway.
4. Denmark, WA
On the Southwest Coast of Western Australia, Denmark is full of natural beauty waiting to be explored – from the turquoise waters of the Greens Pool to the awe-inspiring Elephant Rocks.
Beyond that, new tours with bespoke experiences at local vineyards and the newly renovated institution Denmark Hotel make the town a must this year.
3. Mandurah, WA
Less than an hour south of Perth, Mandurah is set against a backdrop of magnificent beaches and an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour.
Spending time on the water is a must with new sunrise kayaking tours, water bikes and the circular Kwillena Gabi pool to enjoy.
It doesn't stop on the water - the outdoor art installation Giants of Mandurah by artist Thomas Dambo is on until at least the end of 2026, so be sure to get your visit in before it is gone.
2. Cairns, QLD
After taking out the win in 2021, Cairns makes its comeback on the awards list this year.
As one of the best gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers unmatched snorkeling opportunities, made even better thanks to a new half-day tour, perfect for visitors short on time.
Once done on the water, the newly opened social hub, Mexicairns, is the place to be.
