The winners of Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards were revealed earlier this week, putting a spotlight on some incredible regional destinations from around the country. And to our delight, we spotted a few familiar names among the winners, with Portsea taking home the gold for the best Tiny Tourism Town. Meanwhile, Portarlington was named as the third best Small Tourism Town, with Echuca winning the bronze for Top Tourism Town.
Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards 2026
Top Tourism Town (population over 5,000) Winners
- Stanthorpe, QLD
- Kiama, NSW
- Echuca, VIC
Echuca, less than 3 hours away from Melbourne, was celebrated for its timeless inland port, filled with peaceful paddlesteamers, as well as its selection of outdoor activities and natural sights, such as going stand up paddleboarding along the river. Its local food and drink scene was also a highlight, with venues like Echuca Distillery, Monkee & Co and St Anne’s Winery receiving a shout-out. The Great Aussie Beer Shed was also listed as a regional highlight.
“Visitors are increasingly looking for authentic regional experiences, and this award highlights the exceptional experiences available here on the Murray,” said Cr Daniel Mackrell, Campaspe Shire Mayor.
Top Small Tourism Town (population between 1,500 and 5,000)
- Airlie Beach, QLD
- Gulgong, NSW
- Portarlington, VIC
Portarlington on the Bellarine Peninsula won the bronze this year, after taking home the gold in the Victorian awards. This coastal spot farms 60 per cent of Australia’s blue mussels, and it is for that reason that it is known as the ‘mussel capital of Australia’. Along with its seaside vibe, this town also has plenty of wineries and golf courses.
Throughout the year, Portarlington hosts events such as the National Celtic Folk Festival, Portarlington Mussel Festival and Portarlington Greek Festival. It’s just a 90 minute drive from Melbourne, but you can also take the ferry.
“National recognition like this reinforces Portarlington’s growing reputation as one of Australia’s standout coastal destinations and shiens a spotlight on the incredible experiences available across the region,” said Tracy Carter, Executive Director of Tourism Greater Geelong & The Bellarine.
Top Tiny Tourism Town (population under 1,500)
- Portsea, VIC
- Toogoolawah, NSW
- Port Arthur, TAS
Portsea, found at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula, was named as the best Tiny Tourism Town in Australia. So close to Melbourne, this little town was described as a place of contrast, with family-friendly bayside beaches on one side, and powerful, wild ocean waves on the other. There’s plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy, such as swimming, snorkelling, hiking and cycling around Point Nepean National Park. When you’re not exploring the great outdoors, stay in the village and unwind in the cafes and bars, or pop into one of the boutique shops.
“Portsea may be a tiny village, but it has an enormous sense of place, a massive heart and a remarkable ability to leave a lasting impression,” said Councillor Cam Williams.
To learn more about the winners, click here.
