Travel Experts Share the Hottest Destinations
Pack your bags and get ready for an extraordinary year of Australian travel. At Alluxia, we’re passionate about uncovering the most inspiring destinations, luxurious stays, and unforgettable experiences across the country. From tranquil coastal hideaways to vibrant city escapes, Australia is bursting with opportunities to explore, relax, and indulge.
With so many incredible options, deciding where to go next can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve turned to some of Australia’s most esteemed travel writers to share their expert picks for 2025.
Below, these seasoned insiders reveal their must-visit destinations, exciting new hotel openings, and timeless favourites to inspire your next Aussie adventure.
Quentin Long | Australian Traveller
Mondrian Gold Coast is the hottest hotel opening of 2025... get your selfie lips ready for some serious glam socials.
Coffs Harbour - investment renewal is arriving so this is a destination on the rise.
Adelaide - the capital city on the up. Hobart has grown so strongly it is hard to maintain that same level of growth, while Adelaide will lean into its essence of the good life and be the surprise of 2025
Bellarine - the underrated Victorian region that will surprise many
Kakadu - always an astonishing place for soft adventure
Ningaloo Reef - truly great for water lovers
Read more insights from the Australian Traveller team here.
Sonya Gellert | Travel Writer & Wordsmith
It might come as a surprise to some, but the Sunshine Coast is heating up on the travel radar – especially its hinterland, which has become dappled with thoughtfully curated accommodation offerings and is home to a pub that turns casual dining on its head. Road trip to Mapleton Public House for a pub experience like no other, where a wholesome menu pays homage to provenance and features plenty of produce grown on-site. And, nearby, Baxter Lodge offers a handsomely dressed place to rest among a naturally scenic setting. In the Noosa hinterland, The Doonan presents plenty of sun-drenched spots – across its two-hectare site – on which to sip cocktails and snack on flavourful fare (think crab brioche). The food scene in this region is blooming, and its beaches are always worth revisiting. And, closer to those dazzling beaches, construction is set to begin on Noosa’s own Calile Hotel this year.
Liz Bond | This Magnificent Life
In the next few weeks, Sydney's hotel scene is about to get a serious upgrade. Culinary superstar Josh Niland and his wife Julie are set to open The Grand National Hotel by Saint Peter in Paddington. The 14-room boutique property sits above their world-renowned restaurant and bar, Saint Peter. Meanwhile, The Eve Hotel in Surry Hills and the CBD's revamped Adina Town Hall are stepping up to fill Sydney's long overdue need for accommodation that goes beyond the standard hotel formula with genuine personality.
Julie Jones | Travel Without Limits
Western Australia is the next hot destination, particularly for travellers with access needs. While the well-travelled roads south of Perth are popular, it's the more remote and wildlife filled Coral Coast that should not be overlooked. From Perth to Exmouth nature can be seen in abundance, from wildflowers to sea life this stretch of WA has much to offer.
Coastal towns like Jurien Bay and Coral Bay are admired for their pristine beaches of white sand and turquoise water but the best bit is access is assured for travellers with mobility restrictions thanks to the provision of free to loan beach wheelchairs.
For travellers keen to explore Western Australia's National Parks, The Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri Skywalk and Monkey Mia are not to be missed. The limestone pillars that dot the sandy Pinnacles Desert can even be appreciated from a two-wheel drive vehicle with an accessible loop circling the otherworldly site. Kalbarri Skywalk offers stunning accessible cantilever platforms with panoramic views of Kalbarri National Park and the Murchison Gorge below. And Monkey Mia's world-famous dolphins can be easily spotted from an accessible beachfront villa or by taking a Perfect Nature Cruise where lucky guests may even spot the shy dugongs that call Shark Bay home.
Kerry Heaney | Eat Drink & Be Kerry
You don’t have to venture far to discover Queensland’s latest hotspots. The freshest face on the map? Bokarina! If you’re wondering where the hell is Bokarina, picture that no-man’s land on the Sunshine Coast between Caloundra and Kawana. Once home to a shooting range and a swamp frequented by nudists (true story), it’s now been transformed into a haven of stylish apartments and mouth-watering eateries. Talk about a glow-up!
Another favourite of mine right now is Tamborine Mountain. It’s been an age since this area had anything new and exciting, and while Gallery Walk still feels like a time capsule from the ‘80s, the mountain’s bougie side is emerging. A chic new hotel, a boutique amaro distillery, a dangerously indulgent French patisserie, and a fabulous French bistro are giving this spot a well-deserved refresh.
Last but not least, Mon Repos near Bundaberg has caught my eye. It’s famous for its turtles, but now there’s a swanky new resort adding a touch of luxe to the experience. I’m not sure how the turtles feel about it, but it’s certainly worth revisiting to find out!
Inspired to discover more of Australia in 2025? Dream, browse and book at alluxia.com.
