The 2026 NSW Top Tourism Towns have been unveiled, shining a spotlight on regional destinations that deliver exceptional visitor experiences and inspire travellers to see more of the state.
The awards program recognises towns across three population categories and includes a public vote through the NRMA People’s Choice Award, celebrating the destinations most loved by visitors.
Kiama won gold in the Top Tourism Town category (population over 5,000) for the third consecutive year, earning it a spot in the Hall of Fame alongside fellow NSW South Coast hotspot Huskisson (for Tiny Tourism Town).
Orange and Wollongong took silver and bronze, respectively, while Orange was also named the winner of the NRMA People’s Choice Award in the Top Tourism Town category.
Gulgong in the NSW Central Tablelands achieved gold in the Small Tourism Town division (population between 1,500 – 5,000), followed by Gloucester on the Barrington Coast hinterland and Thirlmere in the Macarthur region. The Port Stephens suburb of Shoal Bay won the NRMA People’s Choice Award.
For Tiny Tourism Town (population under 1,500), Broke in the Hunter Region won gold, followed by silver and the NRMA People’s Choice Award for the Central West heritage village of Millthorpe and bronze for Mungindi on the NSW/Queensland border.
NSW Tourism Association CEO Natalie Godward said the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Towns program continues to showcase the depth and diversity of regional tourism across the state.
“These awards shine a spotlight on the amazing towns and communities that make regional NSW so memorable. Every finalist and winner should be incredibly proud of the way they welcome visitors and showcase the best of their region. There’s never been a better time to get out, hit the road, support local businesses and discover the incredible experiences right across our state,” she said.
Like the 2026 Queensland winners, all gold-winning 2026 NSW Top Tourism Towns will represent the state at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra later this year.
KARRYON UNPACKS: The 2026 NSW Top Tourism Towns winners highlight how regional communities continue to convert local character, hospitality and visitor-ready experiences into compelling reasons for travellers to explore further.
