The Top Emerging Towns To Visit Before Everyone Else

You heard it here first – these under-the-radar towns are officially on the rise.

Not every great destination is a household name – yet. Across Australia, a new set of holiday hotspots is making waves, drawing travellers with their fresh energy, unique charm and evolving local scene. Voted by a panel of industry experts and well-travelled Aussies for Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit list, these destinations are tipped as the next big thing.

1. Bicheno, Tas

Overall rank: 1/100

Palawa/Tasmanian Aboriginal Country

Sea Stacks in Bicheno, Tas — Sea Stacks Bicheno are inspired by the natural surroundings of Tasmania’s east coast. (Credit: Rhiannon Taylor)

Anyone who has ever driven Tasmania’s east coast can attest to the magnetic pull of its natural beauty and relaxed seaside towns found en route. If you’ve stopped off in Bicheno in recent years, you’ll still find the little penguins on their nightly parade, the blowhole spouting, seafood served in abundance and prime whale-spotting – located as it is along the East Coast Whale Trail.

coastal views in Bicheno, Tas — Bicheno is a prime location for whale-spotting.

“A Tasmanian hidden gem, very much worth the drive from either Hobart or Launceston," says panellist Brett Godfrey of this old fishing port just north of the Freycinet Peninsula. But you’ll find it has a fresh buzz, too: making it worthy of its top spot on our list of 100 Best Aussie Towns to visit.

Le Gulch wine bar in Bicheno, Tas — Sample Tasmanian wines at the newly opened wine bar, Le Gulch.

From Waubs Harbour Distillery crafting whisky out of an old oyster hatchery to new wine bar Le Gulch, set in an old fishing factory, a fresh batch of businesses is bottling its spirit. And Sea Stacks Bicheno is about to swing open its doors (with bookings due to open from June 2026), bringing design-forward accommodation to town.

Don’t miss: “I get hungry just thinking about this town," says panellist Catriona Rowntree. “Head to Lobster Shack Tasmania and thank me later!"

2. Kalbarri, WA

Overall rank: 19/100

Nanda Country

the Kalbarri Skywalk from above — Admire the expansive views from the vertiginous platforms at Kalbarri Skywalk. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

“Epic cliffs and stunning gorges," is how panellist Irene Jones describes the appeal of Kalbarri/Wurdimarlu. This Coral Coast town is on the map for its dramatic convergence of ocean and outback. New tourism infrastructure, including the spectacular Kalbarri Skywalk (completed 2020) suspended over the Murchison River Gorge and an ongoing Foreshore Revitalisation Project, which will include the restoration of Nanda cultural site Gidamarra Spring, is securing Kalbarri as one of Australia’s premier tourism towns.

Don’t miss: Wildflower season, from late winter through to spring.

3. New Norfolk, Tas

Overall rank: 36/100

Palawa/Tasmanian Aboriginal Country

The Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk, Tas — The award-winning Agrarian Kitchen is a beloved temple to Tasmanian produce. (Credit: Luke Burgess)

Over the years, this historic riverside town in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley has reinvented itself through its food, drink and antiques scenes. Award-winning dining destination and cooking school The Agrarian Kitchen continues to push New Norfolk’s narrative from its home within the ever-evolving Willow Court precinct, a former asylum that connects past to present.

Don’t miss: Your chance for a spot of vintage shopping. If you love contributing to the circular economy, this is your kind of town, says Catriona Rowntree. “Just keep plenty of space in your luggage, and yes, they do ship!"

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

4. Katherine, NT

Overall rank: 37/100

Jawoyn, Dagoman & Wardaman Country

Take in jaw-dropping views from Baruwei Lookout at Nitmiluk Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/Safari Global)

Known for its intersection of Aboriginal cultures and pastoral history, this Top End town delivers a double drawcard of muscle-soothing hot springs and the breathtaking Nitmiluk Gorge right on its doorstep, as highlighted by panellist Paul Ah Chee. But Katherine is also emerging as a hotspot for coffee snobs. A growing collection of cafes – such as Finch Cafe, Maidens Lane and The Black Russian Caravan Bar – is punching well above its weight in the flat white stakes.

Don’t miss: Many Aussies will drive hundreds of kilometres for a decent coffee, but the reason you’re really here is Nitmiluk Gorge. For this alone, panellist Adrian Williams rates Katherine 11/10.

5. Healesville, Vic

Overall rank: 57/100

Wurundjeri Country

Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Healesville, Vic — Panoramic views from every vantage point at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat. (Credit: Dominey Flores)

“Once famous for its wildlife sanctuary, the ripple effect now offers brilliant food and wine alongside a calmer pace of life," says panellist Catriona Rowntree of this charming Yarra Valley town that has all the ingredients for the perfect weekend getaway. Dine in a converted cabinet makers factory at No.7 Healesville and stop in for a limoncello spritz at recently opened Zoncello Yarra Valley. Check into Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, where each mudbrick cabin features its own all-local wine bar and larder.

Don’t miss: Panellist Adrian Williams recommends checking out the platypus at Healesville Sanctuary, which he describes as one of Australia’s great zoos. While for panellist Paul Hamra, the Four Pillars Gin distillery is a standout experience.

6. Terrigal, NSW

Overall rank: 73/100

Darkinjung Country

the Terrigal Boardwalk — Waves break against Terrigal Boardwalk. (Credit: Megann Evens)

The Central Coast’s glow-up is continuing apace and nowhere is it more evident than in Terrigal: a sea-changer’s dream of golden sands paired with an increasingly buzzy social scene centred on its Norfolk pine-lined esplanade. “It’s the perfect mix of beach, cafes, boutique shops, wine bars and restaurants," says panellist Katie Carlin. Opened late last year, the Terrigal Pavilion (known as the Pav) is a multi-level dining destination right on the beachfront that cements its status as a place on the ascendant.

beachside dining tables at the Terrigal Pavilion, NSW — Dine al fresco with unbeatable beachside views. (Credit: Kitti Gould)

Don’t miss: Golden hour at The Tropic – the Pav’s must-try Mediterranean-influenced restaurant.

7. Stanthorpe, Qld

Overall rank: 78/100

Kambuwal Country

hiking near Stanthorpe — Get a bird’s-eye view of the Granite Belt. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

When we think wine in Australia, we don’t often think Queensland. Stanthorpe lies at the heart of the Granite Belt, which – under three hours west of Brisbane – is not only the country’s highest wine region, atop the Great Dividing Range, but also among its most under-the-radar. This cool-climate enclave is winning accolades for its rare, alternative varietals. Add to that abundant fresh produce to enjoy at farm-to-table or pick-your-own experiences, plus eclectic accommodations, and it makes for one of Australia’s most unique country getaways.

Don’t miss: The chance to stay in Australia’s first luxury wine barrel accommodation – Barrel View Luxury Cabins – in nearby Ballandean.

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8. Woolgoolga, NSW

Overall rank: 88/100

Gumbaynggirr Country

the Woolgoolga Beach, NSW — Woolgoolga Beach is one of the region’s most quintessential Aussie beaches.

This Coffs Coast gem offers everything you could want from a beachy getaway: unspoilt sands framed by a dramatic headland, and activities – from swimming, surfing, fishing and snorkelling to walking, cycling and whale-watching – in and out of the water. Plus a village of cafes, bakeries and even a distillery. Panellist Brad Farmer let the cat out of the bag when he crowned Woolgoolga the best mainland beach in the official list of Best Australian Beaches for 2025.

Don’t miss: Underpinning life in Woopi, as it’s known locally, is its multicultural community – the town is home to Australia’s largest regional Sikh/Punjabi population. Visit the Sikh Heritage Museum of Australia or time your visit for the annual Curryfest in September.

9. Goulburn, NSW

Overall rank: 99/100

Gundungurra & Ngunnawal Country

an outdoor setup at the Goulburn Brewery — The Goulburn Brewery is known as the home of Wayback beer.

While history is built into the foundations of Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city is evolving. Two hours from Sydney and an hour from Canberra, it has long been known as a stopover, with the landmark Big Merino symbolising its status as a major wool centre. But planned CBD upgrades and renewed heritage buildings – including the Goulburn Brewery, one of the mainland’s oldest, which reopened in 2025 after a two-year restoration – are giving visitors more reason to make it their destination.

Don’t miss: Goulburn is an essential pit stop on any NSW road trip, says panellist Rae Johnston. She recommends hitting up The Big Merino for wool supplies and Trappers Bakery for the veggie pie.

10. Ballina, NSW

Overall rank: 100/100

Bundjalung Country

surfers in Ballina, NSW — Ballina is a surf haven. (Credit: Elise Hassey)

Long considered the gateway town to its famous neighbour, Ballina has always had the beaches to rival Byron Bay. And now it’s got some of the coastal-cool lifestyle to match with businesses serving fresh energy – see the newly renovated Shaws Bay Hotel and oceanside Italian diner Capiche. “Underrated, as it is often thought of as the transit centre for the Northern Rivers region," panellist Paul Hamra says of Ballina. “A quieter version of Byron Bay with a beautiful coast and vibrant, artistic community."

Don’t miss: Getting out on the water with Out of the Blue Adventures for whale-watching and dolphin-spotting.

This article is part of Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit, as chosen by a panel of industry experts, well-known Aussies and travel insiders. See our full list of 100 best Aussie towns here and visit the special 100 best Aussie towns hub here.

Whether you’re after the perfect family holiday or after something a little more romantic, Accor has the stay for you.

Nothing sets the tone of your holiday quite like the accommodation you’ve chosen. After all, who can imagine a wellness retreat without an on-site day spa, or a sprawling family resort without a kids’ club (or babysitting service)? The truth is there are as many ways to holiday as there are types of travellers – but happily, there’s accommodation for every type of traveller.

Fun family holidays

A successful family holiday requires plenty of space – not to mention essential amenities, like a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, a central location near plenty of activities and attractions, and those all-important beaches. The following properties all fit the bill and were designed with kids in mind.

1. Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas

inside room at Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas — Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas is perfect for a family getaway.

Will it be a day of snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, horse riding along the golden sands of Cape Tribulation, or trying your hand at watersports at Four Mile Beach? For those checked in at Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, the correct answer can only ever be ‘all of the above’ – but only if you can convince the kids to get out of the hotel’s lagoon-style swimming pool.

Featuring one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments (some with private swim-up pool decks), the hotel is also conveniently located moments from the town centre.

2. Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour

Kids’ club: the two words most parents of little ones long to hear. With Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour, however, that’s only the beginning. This eco-friendly hotel (which is famous for its spacious rooms) pulls out all the stops, serving up a 10-metre outdoor pool, tennis court and a signature restaurant, The Ternary.

Located in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant Darling Harbour precinct, the hotel is steps from WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and the Australian National Maritime Museum.

3. Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff

Mantra On Salt pool — The Tweed offers the best of both worlds.

When the kids are screaming ‘Gold Coast theme parks’ but your body needs a little Byron Bay downtime, the answer arrives in the form of Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff, an airy resort located in The Tweed. Some of Queensland and New South Wales’s top beaches and attractions are only a short drive away.

Featuring one- and two-bedroom suites, a tennis court and a lagoon-style pool (plus a children’s wading pool), guests also have the option to rent a bike, book a treatment at the onsite day spa, or organise child-minding for date night.

Couples getaways

Remember those candlelit dinners when you first got together? Or what about those long walks along the beach and lazy sleep-ins – complete with room service?

If you’re still searching your memory, it’s time to hit reboot on romance by booking a hotel geared around good food, good times and more than a little privacy.

1. Sofitel Melbourne On Collins

inside room at Sofitel Melbourne — Soak in the gorgeous view.

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s shopping and theatre districts, there’s every reason those checking into Sofitel Melbourne On Collins will want to head out and explore. A night in, however, can mean a champagne or signature cocktail (or two) at The Atrium Bar on 35 before an intimate feast at No35, where French gastronomy reaches new heights.

Top tip? Book the Romance Getaway Package, which includes a bottle of French champagne, breakfast in bed and a leisurely 2pm check out.

2. Mondrian Gold Coast

inside a room at The Mondrian — Enjoy classy surrounds at The Mondrian.

The Gold Coast suburb of Burleigh has all the ingredients needed for a romantic escape. And the best place to explore it all from is the stunning beachfront lifestyle precinct, Mondrian Gold Coast.

Stay in one of 208 accommodation options, including studios, suites, homes and houses. Taste your way through the levels of dining options, from authentic Italian and surf-to-plate seafood, and dive into the lively pool club. Or relax with a restorative treatment together at the spa.

City escapes

Nabbing a front-row seat to urban life (and momentarily feeling like a local) is as easy as checking into a city hotel and letting the streets around you set the pace for your next holiday.

Laidback retreats and coastal getaways will always have their place, but here you can step straight into galleries and boutique stores, roll into restaurants and tumble out of bars – all before watching the sun rise across a gleaming skyline.

A convenient location, of course, is key.

1. 25hours Hotel The Olympia

25hours Sydney Atrium — Book into Sydney’s newest boutique spot.

Hotels are all too often about retreating from the city they’re located in, but at Sydney’s newest boutique spot, 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia, a stay is all about immersing yourself in the area. Channelling the energy and creativity of its Oxford Street location, the hotel’s bold and playful design is a nod to the building’s arthouse beginnings as West’s Olympia Theatre. Guests can choose to stay in either a light and airy Dreamers room or the more dramatic Renegades option.

This is home to two stand-out bars (one of them on the rooftop) and a cafe serving Lune croissants, as well as The Palomar, a hot dining spot that serves as a love letter to the Mediterranean.

2. Hyde Melbourne Place

Some of Melbourne’s finest restaurants might be on Hyde Melbourne Place’s doorstep, but there’s no need for guests to venture out the front door for a bite to remember. The innovative brand’s first Australian offering is not only home to three distinctive venues (including an atmospheric rooftop restaurant), but is also the winner of a Michelin Key 2025.

Conveniently located in the east end of the city’s CBD within moments of the city’s iconic laneways, accommodation ranges from a soothing General Admission Queen to the spectacular Headliner Suite (many with balconies overlooking the city buzzing below). A high-end fitness space and Peach Pilates streamed straight to your in-room tablet are available too. Our top tip? Call ahead for a Sonna Brightening LED Face Mask and say yes to winding down with a meditative ritual designed to support skin health, clarity and calm.

Tranquil retreats

There’s no question 2026 is going to be your year, but it would be foolish to hard-launch this new and improved you without first taking some time to relax, rejuvenate and reflect on how you can find better balance in the year to come.

It’s time to treat yourself to a wellness getaway that’s designed around peace, natural beauty and more than a few spa treatments.

1. Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

Pullman Bunker Bay pool — Relax into Pullman Bunker Bay Resort.

Kangaroos at dawn, Margaret River wineries at noon and a long evening of life-affirming massage treatment come the late afternoon; there’s a lot to love about a stay at Pullman Bunker Bay Resort. And that’s without even touching on the resort’s secluded beachfront location.

Whether you check into a studio villa or a three-bedroom, three-bathroom villa, the views stretching out over the lake or garden will help you hit reset as you ponder the important questions: should you take a drive to nearby Geographe Bay to enjoy the dive of a lifetime, settle in for a long and lazy day in the resort’s heated infinity-edge pool, or make booking after booking at Vie Spa to try its extensive range of massages, facials and treatments?

The cherry on top? The resort has a complimentary – albeit seasonal – kids’ club, too.

2. Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

couple in spa at Peppers Cradle Mountain — Connect with yourself and nature at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Welcome to the ultimate alpine wellness experience, a luxurious lodge nestled in the lush peaks of Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, where ‘forest bathing’ takes on a whole new meaning.

Offering quick and easy access to some of the region’s most iconic walking trails (not to mention a window to our most striking flora and fauna), every cabin and suite at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge – some with their own fireplace – is designed to help you exhale.

Say yes to a wealth of included activities, such as an evening wildlife safari, a guided Crater Lake mountain walk or the Aboriginal Heritage & Bush Tucker tour. Unwind by retreating to the famous Waldheim Alpine Spa, where treatment rooms overlook rugged mountains and ancient forests.

Wellness has never looked – or felt – so luxurious.

Learn more and plan your next escape at All.com.