The 19 towns battling it out for NSW's Top Tourism Town Awards

The finalists for NSW’s Top Tourism Town Awards have been revealed. Did your hometown make the cut?

NSW is home to a range of beautiful and diverse towns, offering everything from coastal beauty and beachside vibes to mountain magic and regional charm.

Each year, Business NSW endeavours to find the cream of the crop with the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards. Battling it out across three categories – tiny, small and top – 19 towns across the state are in the running to be crowned the best, and you can influence the outcome by voting.

Tiny Tourism Town

The state of NSW is generously sprinkled with tiny towns (categorised as having a population under 1500 residents) that appear as a mere blimp on the map, but that doesn’t mean they don’t pack a punch.

They’re the places we go to recharge and escape from our everyday responsibilities, perfect for those of us who go on holiday to disconnect. Whether you like to book a tiny home, turn off your phone and go off-grid for the weekend or wander down the main street where nobody knows your name, tiny towns are great for getting away from it all. But which one should be at the top of your bucket list?

Broke

The first town up for the Tiny Tourism Town award is Broke, nestled in the Hunter Valley region between mist-covered mountains and flourishing valleys of green. It’s a village that few people know about, but for those who do, it’s a secret they want to keep.

Broke is in abundance of specialty, with a tight list of talents it does just right. The wineries on offer in Broke are a prime example, known across the country as being some of the most diverse and delicious. From the French-style Krinklewood Biodynamic Winery to the 100-hectare Margan Wines and Restaurant, each cellar door is world-class in its own right.

But there’s more to Broke than its wonderful wine. Visitors can also meet furry friends at Starline Alpacas. Admire ancient Aboriginal rock art along the Finchley Cultural Walk. Glamp in sophisticated luxury at Broke Estate. Meet the locals and sample the region’s finest flavours with the Smoke in Broke BBQ Festival. For such a tiny town, there’s so much to fall in love with.

Starline Alpaca farm in Broke, NSW — Meet furry-faced locals in Broke. (Image: Destination NSW)

Huskisson

Next, sitting on the stunning white-sand shores of Jervis Bay, is Huskisson on the NSW South Coast. The first thing visitors usually notice about this bucket-list-worthy destination, apart from the immediate peace and quiet, is its pristine, peaceful beaches. It’s bordered by the prettiest coastline in the state, with plenty of beaches to while away the day – you’ll have them all to yourself, too.

Visitors are encouraged to make the most of Huskisson’s coastal beauty by going diving with Woebegone Freedive or spotting marine life with Dolphin Watch Cruises. For those of us who prefer to stay on land, check out Flamin Galah Brewing Co. for boutique beverages or the innovative local flavours at Wildginger. Whatever you choose to indulge in, you’ll be left feeling satisfied.

Flamin Galah Brewing Co in Huskisson, NSW — Stop in at Flamin Galah for a craft beer on tap. (Image: Destination NSW)

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What other towns made the list?

The two other finalists up for the Tiny Tourism Town award are historic Eugowra in the Central West and the Hunter Valley’s scenic Wollombi.

Small Tourism Town

Small-town tourism has taken off in recent years, combining rural simplicity with everyday living. What could you want more from your holiday than a peaceful town where nobody knows your name and that has all the comforts of home? Think locally run boutiques, family-friendly experiences and unique accommodation options – all with supermarkets, bottle shops, pubs and cafes on your doorstep.

With a population between 1500 and 5000, these small settlements have found the sweet spot. But which one has done it best?

Oberon

Oberon, on the outskirts of the Blue Mountains region, is the epitome of cosy. It’s a town that exudes regional charm, from its mushroom foraging workshops to its Art-Deco streetscapes, it feels straight out of a picture book. And some would argue one of its best features is that it’s only around a three-hour drive from Sydney.

The scenery here is also spectacular. Simply arriving in town is sure to delight, with roads weaving through ancient rainforest and past sheep-studded farmland. One visit to the local Mayfield Garden or Jenolan Caves will leave you in awe. You’ll fall even more in love if you visit in winter when the town can become blanketed in snow.

Adding to its small-town allure are Oberon’s range of farmers markets, autumnal celebrations, crystal-clear creeks and kilometres of bushwalks. With all that’s on offer, it’s no wonder this sweet little town is in the running.

Merimbula

Opposite in offerings but equal in beauty is the coastal town of Merimbula, around 100 kilometres from the NSW-Victoria border.

This town is known for its thriving foodie scene, especially when it comes to oysters. There’s even a foodie trail dedicated exclusively to the briny bivalves. Local favourites include the award-winning Broadwater Oysters and Wheeler’s Seafood Restaurant and Oyster Bar.

A delicious variety of cafes and restaurants are also on offer here, so foodies are sure to have a good time. But for those seeking something more than just an adventure of the tastebuds, you won’t be disappointed. There are so many other great things to do in Merimbula. Why not go on an Indigenous heritage tour? Or play a round of golf? Come for the food, stay for the friendly locals, pretty beaches and family-friendly vibes.

Broadwater Oysters in Merimbula, NSW — Get a taste of the sea with Broadwater Oysters. (Image: Destination NSW)

What other towns made the list?

The other four towns in the running for the Small Tourism Town award are Berry, Bulahdelah, Gloucester and Ulmarra.

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Top Tourism Town

In Australia, more and more people are opting to holiday in towns over cities, and it’s not hard to see why. Bigger cities can become overcrowded, overpriced and, quite frankly, overstimulating. With a more laid-back vibe, fewer tourists, intimate experiences and hidden gems, towns are increasingly becoming the place to be.

With a population of over 5000, nine NSW towns have been listed as finalists for the 2024 Top Tourism Town. Each offers its own unique appeal, but which will come out on top?

Orange

Situated in the Central West, it’s no surprise the charming town of Orange has been named a finalist this year. It may be well-known for its food and wine scene, but there’s so much more going on in Orange, if you linger a little longer.

Yes, a visit to any of the stunning wineries in Orange will have you saying ‘wow’ faster than a bottle of sparkling can be popped. With its high-altitude, cool-climate location, the region produces some of the country’s best wines. From the ever-popular Borrodell Estate to boutique Nashdale Lane, oenophiles are truly spoilt for choice here.

But there is so much more to this regional town than meets the eye. Orange is bursting with things to do, from cafe hopping and boutique browsing to cultural tours and guided hikes. There are countless unique accommodation options too. Why not cosy up in a countryside escape? Or splash out on an architecturally designed dream?

With a main town riddled with boutique shops and a calendar full of unique markets, trying to squeeze everything into one weekend simply won’t work. You’ll have to come back for another visit, and that’s just one of the reasons why Orange may just be named the Top Tourism Town of NSW this year.

Orange, NSW — The Central West town of Orange is full of rural charm. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle

Flip the coin, however, and you’ll see the harbour city of Newcastle on NSW’s North Coast. For locals of the vibrant town, this won’t come as a shock; they’re well aware of this coastal town’s allures. But for those of you who aren’t, let us enlighten you.

The hip and happening town of Newcastle has been on the rise for years, thanks to its burgeoning arts scene, foodie culture, friendly locals and gorgeous swimming spots. Not only is it home to some of the coolest ocean pools in Australia – we’re looking at you Bogey Hole and Merewether Baths – but stunning beaches, coastal walks, restaurants and arts spaces.

Bogey Hole in Newcastle, NSW — The Bogey Hole was built by convicts in 1819. (Image: Destination NSW)

And with events like Newcastle Food Month pushing the envelope, it’s no wonder this town is attracting attention. Newcastle is a perfect example of how the past meets the present, of how history and modernity can intertwine and create something beautiful. Heritage sites like Fort Scratchley sit in proximity to contemporary art galleries, boutique breweries and cafe-dotted streets. It’s definitely a strong contender for NSW’s Top Tourism Town award this year.

What other towns made the list?

The seven other finalists for the Top Tourism Town award are Ballina, Bathurst, Grafton, Kiama, Murwillumbah, Shellharbour and Ulladulla.

Has your hometown been listed? Cast your vote to see it named the top tourism town in its category. Voting closes 13 May, 2024

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe.

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca, which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie, the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach. Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen, which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse.

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach, where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne, Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s.

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

The 19 towns battling it out for NSW’s Top Tourism Town Awards

The finalists for NSW’s Top Tourism Town Awards have been revealed. Did your hometown make the cut?