Picturesque Aussie town named best of the year in 2025

A picturesque coastal town in New South Wales has been named the best Aussie town in 2025. 

In a break from the usual voting criteria, a collection of bays and beaches sitting just 2.5 hours drive up the coast from Sydney and just past Newcastle in NSW, the winning town is ever-growing in popularity. 

The areas of Salamander Bay, Corlette and Nelson Bay have banded together to see the region of Port Stephens crowned as the best in the country.

Port Stephens has been praised for its must-see beaches, stunning sand dunes, sea life and national parks, with the region’s growing accommodation, adventure and food options.

Popular travel app Wotif has announced the winners of its 2025 Aussie Town of the Year Awards, with new research revealing that 78 per cent of Aussies plan to travel domestically this year.

Speaking to news.com.au, Wotif’s Travel Expert Rebecca Hurley said the winning town is “the perfect place to switch off” thanks to the region’s “laid-back luxury” and “endless beaches”.

“This year’s awards prove Aussies are being drawn to iconic coastal destinations right across the country, and Port Stephens stands out as this year’s number one,” Ms Hurley explained.

“The region’s popularity has risen significantly in the last twelve months, with accommodation interest jumping up over 75 per cent."

“It’s the perfect destination to just switch off and relax. It’s laid-back luxury, meets nature haven thanks to the endless beaches, parks, wildlife and sand dunes. Whether it’s a relaxing beach escape, or an adventure packed getaway, Port Stephens has something for everyone.”

Ms Hurley said coming in second this year was Cairns in Queensland, while Mandurah in Western Australia ranked third.

Check out the top 10 list of best Aussie towns for 2025 below. 

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 

Image credits: Shutterstock