Each Australian town has its own unique charm that sets it apart from the rest. Whether you’re wanting to holiday by the beach, escape the city to a country town, or sip and dine on the finest wine and produce in an award-winning wine region, there’s something for all holidaymakers looking to explore beyond the cities. But how do you pick the best when they all have something different to offer? 

Each year travel app Wotif takes on the mammoth task of selecting the Aussie Town of the Year. It uses its internal data index that looks at trending traveller interest, accommodation affordability, quality and traveller satisfaction to determine which town will be crowned the best in the country for the year. 

Credit: Destination NSW

In 2025, the honours go to a New South Wales holiday hotspot, Port Stephens. The coastal region is known for its stunning beaches, iconic Stockton Sand Dunes and the natural wonder that is Tomaree National Park. An easy two-hour drive from Sydney, it’s a go-to spot for citysiders looking for a beachside break. 

Forever popular holiday destination, Cairns in Queensland, came in second. Followed by Mandurah in Western in Australia. 

It looks like seaside retreats are high on the bucket list for travellers this year with six out of the 10 top Aussie towns being coastal regions or by the sea. Denmark, a coastal town in Western Australia, came in fourth; Seaside village Port Campbell, in Victoria, was named sixth best; And beachside towns, Kingscliff and Yamba in NSW, placed eighth and ninth respectively. 

Here is the full list of the top 10 destinations named in Wotif’s Aussie Town of the Year Awards: 

1. Port Stephens, NSW  
2. Cairns, QLD 
3. Mandurah, WA 
4. Denmark, WA  
5. Beechworth, VIC  
6. Port Campbell, VIC 
7. Murray Bridge, SA 
8. Kingscliff, NSW 
9. Yamba, NSW 
10. Mackay, QLD 

Feeling inspired to book a short break? We’ve found the best beach towns in South Australia and the 15 best NSW beach towns for your next weekend getaway. You can also Escape the city at 11 of the best beach towns in Victoria or kick back at 8 of the best beach towns in Queensland. 

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