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This historic port town was just crowned Australia’s best

Emily MurphyBy Emily Murphy
The secret’s out: this character-packed harbour town has just been named Australia’s number one.

Australia has a brand-new capital of cool, and this year, it’s all about the west. Fremantle in Western Australia has officially been named Australia’s Top Tourism Town for 2025, taking out the coveted Gold award at a ceremony held at Parliament House in Canberra.

The annual awards, run by the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC), celebrate the small towns, big characters and passionate guides that bring travel in Australia to life.

Fremantle takes the crown

View Of Fremantle At Riverbank
Freo is Australia’s best town. (Image: Getty Images/EyeEm Mobile GmbH)

Affectionately known as Freo, Fremantle charmed judges, confirming what locals already know – this port city is one of Australia’s most compelling coastal escapes.

“Fremantle, or Freo as the locals call it, is an exceptional destination," said ATIC CEO Erin McLeod.

“Its vibrant maritime heritage, thriving arts and music scene, world-class food and wine, and rich culture make it a standout winner as Australia’s Top Tourism Town for 2025."

The best of the rest

Aerial shot of Back Beach in Devonport, Tasmania
Devonport was the 2024 Top Tourism Town. (Image: S. Group)

While Fremantle took the top spot, other towns across the country also shone.

Silver went to Devonport in Tasmania, a charming port city that took home Gold last year, while Bronze was awarded to Kiama in NSW, home of the iconic blowhole and pristine South Coast beaches.

Small and tiny towns

The Bungendore Wood Works Gallery exhibits and promotes Australian wood art, giftware, sculpture and contemporary furniture by the country's foremost designer/makers in wood. The Gallery takes pride in the skill and art of Australia's craftspeople, and in the varied richness and beauty of native timbers.
Bungendore in the Canberra Region took won the Small Tourism Town. (Image: Destination NSW)

The awards also spotlight smaller communities that punch well above their weight.

Bungendore in the Canberra Region took Gold in the Small Tourism Town category, impressing with its historic streetscape and creative culture. Followed by Deloraine in Tasmania winning Silver, and Airlie Beach in The Whitsundays winning Bronze.

Trentham in Victoria claimed Gold in the Tiny Tourism Town category, with its charming main street, lush gardens and proximity to the Wombat State Forest. Silver and Bronze awards went to Huskisson in NSW and the Town of 1770 in Queensland, which was also voted one of Australia’s best beaches in 2025, proving that incredible visitor experiences are spread across the map.

Why the awards matter

High Street, Trentham
Trentham in Victoria won Gold for the Tiny Tourism Town.

Now in its fifth year, the Top Tourism Town Awards highlight the communities and guides that power Australia’s visitor economy. Tourism Australia’s executive GM of corporate affairs, Tanya Bowes, noted that tourism is the lifeblood of so many communities across Australia.

Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards chairperson Shaun de Bruyn said the awards shine a spotlight on the communities and guides who bring Australian tourism to life through local knowledge, warmth and genuine connection.

“Our regional destinations play a crucial role in Australian tourism, offering authentic experiences that support local towns and attract visitors from near and far."

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

    Lucy CousinsBy Lucy Cousins
    Continue
    As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

    As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

    Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

    Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

    Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach
    Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

    Where to eat in Noosa

    Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

    There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

    There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

    diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter
    Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

    Where to stay in Noosa

    Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

    There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

    For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

    a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa
    Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

    Things to do on land

    There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

    A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

    Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

    woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter
    Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

    Things to do in the water

    Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

    You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

    Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

    For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

    women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter
    Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

    Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.