Sublime beach suburb with moving sand dunes wins Aussie town of the year

Regional Australia rules in 2025 but one beachside suburb reigns supreme for capturing travellers' hearts in the Aussie Town of the Year Awards.

Port Stephens will be a hot tourist destination in 2025, according to Wotif which hosts the awards, and comes at a time when more Aussies are getting on the domestic travel train as they realise how good their own backyard is.

Port Stephens is just over a two-hour drive from Sydney or a 30-minute drive from Newcastle airport, and is home to pristine beaches, the Tomaree National Park and the Stockton Sand Dunes - the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.

It's home to The Poyer's, which won the best seafood restaurant at the 2024 Sydney Fish Market Seafood Excellence Awards, as well as award-winning sea life cruises.

And, according to Wotif, Port Stephens attracted a massive 75 per cent increase in traveller searches in 2024 compared to the previous year.

The 2025 Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards top 10 are:

Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson said: "Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, Port Stephens is the perfect place to escape, explore, and make memories. We invite Aussies to discover why Port Stephens is the ultimate holiday destination!"

Almost 80 per cent of Aussies plan to travel domestically this year, according to research from Wotif and YouGov.

Now in its eighth year, the Aussie Town of the Year Awards recognise trending Aussie destinations based on accommodation affordability, quality and traveller satisfaction.

The booking platform says over a quarter of Aussies want to visit new destinations in Australia in 2025.

Short breaks will remain key for many travellers, with 3 to 5 days being the sweet spot for domestic getaways this year.

Wotif Travel Expert Rebecca Hurley said Aussies are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring our backyard.

"The local hospitality and charm of regional Australia is a big draw card for many city-based travellers. Whether it's visiting the local farmers markets, the pub or B&B, regional Australian travel often offers a relaxed, welcoming experience," Ms Hurley said.

Ms Hurley said there are many wonderful regional areas to discover offering great value and world class travel experiences just a few hours from home.

"There are so many reasons Aussies love a local regional holiday. It's usually easier and quicker to plan than an overseas trip, good value for money, and with thousands of Aussie towns across Australia, there are many options, whether you are looking for a quick weekend break or a longer road trip holiday," she said.

While coastal areas make up the majority of this year's award-winners, inland destinations Beechworth and Murray Bridge are Aussie Town of the Year award finalists.

Rural City of Murray Bridge mayor Wayne Thorley said it was an honour for the rural city.

"Murray Bridge is a thriving rural city on the banks of the beautiful Murray River, just 40 minutes from Adelaide," he said.

"To be recognised like this is very exciting and reinforces the work we have been doing to showcase our region as a must-visit destination, with something unique to offer everyone who comes our way."

"Keeping an eye on new regional air routes is also important, with better accessibility leading to more traveller interest," she said.

"Just this week Qantas launched more seats and better accessibility from Adelaide to regional South Australian areas Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Mount Gambier and Kangaroo Island, so regional South Australia is also a destination to keep on the radar."

Wotif said value for money destinations will remain key in 2025 and one trend they predict is 'season swapping' whereby travellers will visit destinations in their traditional off-season.

"Not only does it cut costs but also provides unique experiences and supports the local tourism economy during their traditional quieter period," said Ms Hurley.

Short breaks are set to be popular, with three to five days being the sweet spot for domestic travel, according to Wotif.