As Easter and the school holidays draw near, Aussies are finalizing their travel plans, with many turning to their favorite domestic destinations. According to the latest April Travel Outlook from Expedia and Wotif, beach getaways remain the top choice for holidaymakers this time of year, especially in New South Wales and Queensland.
While well-loved spots in both states dominate the rankings, a coastal town in NSW is making waves with a significant increase in interest.
Here are the most popular domestic destinations for April — and the NSW coastal suburb that’s experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity.
Popular Domestic Destinations for April
Gold Coast, QLD
The Gold Coast takes the top spot for most popular holiday destination this Easter. With the region now recovering from Cyclone Alfred, it’s a prime time to explore its beaches and vibrant tourism offerings.
Sunshine Coast, QLD
Also recovering from the cyclone, the Sunshine Coast continues to be a favorite for travelers, ranking second overall.
Cairns, QLD
Cairns, a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, takes third place with a 63% rise in bookings, making it the second most trending destination overall.
Newcastle, NSW
In fourth place, Newcastle in coastal NSW is attracting travelers with its blend of laid-back coastal life and bustling city vibes, including restaurants, events, and nightlife.
Port Stephens, NSW
Port Stephens saw a 36% increase in bookings, landing it in fifth place. Its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities continue to draw visitors.
Jervis Bay, NSW
Known for its pristine white sand beaches, Jervis Bay ranks sixth as a top destination, especially with its iconic Hyams Beach.
Byron Bay, NSW
Despite some earlier setbacks from Cyclone Alfred, Byron Bay’s popularity is soaring again, with a 51% increase in accommodation interest, making it the third most trending destination.
Central Coast, NSW
The Central Coast, home to towns like Terrigal and Avoca Beach, remains a popular spot for expansive beaches and surfing, ranking eighth overall.
Coffs Harbour, NSW
Famous for its beaches and the Big Banana, Coffs Harbour remains a key stop for road trippers, ranking ninth overall.
Wollongong, NSW
Wollongong, a seaside city south of Sydney, rounds out the top ten list, making it a sought-after destination for Easter holidays.
Top Trending Destination: Merimbula, NSW
Despite Queensland dominating the rankings, an unexpected NSW coastal town has surged in interest — Merimbula. With a staggering 70% increase in accommodation bookings compared to last year, Merimbula is becoming a must-visit destination this April. Its stunning beaches and tranquil atmosphere have made it a favorite for travelers seeking a quieter retreat.
As we head into the peak holiday period, it’s clear that both Queensland and New South Wales are the go-to regions for Aussies looking to unwind by the beach. But with new trends emerging, Merimbula is proving to be a rising star in the coastal tourism scene.
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