A recent poll by iSelect has crowned the Gold Coast as Australia's top domestic travel destination for 2026. The survey of 1,002 Australians highlighted the region's beaches and appeal, with 11.4% selecting it as their favorite local getaway. Queensland spots dominated the rankings, underscoring the state's strong tourism draw.
The Gold Coast has emerged as the leading choice for domestic holidays in 2026, according to a poll conducted by iSelect among 1,002 Australians. The beachside region received 11.4% of votes, edging out Melbourne, which secured 11.1% thanks to its "Every Bit Different" campaign emphasizing cultural offerings. This marks a shift, as Melbourne surpassed Sydney in the rankings.
Queensland locations performed strongly overall, with Brisbane placing fourth, the Sunshine Coast fifth, and Cairns seventh. The full top 10 list includes: Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Hobart, Cairns, Adelaide, Byron Bay, and Tasmania. The poll reflects preferences for stress-free escapes amid busy lifestyles, with sun, sand, and surf cited as key attractions.
iSelect spokesperson Sophie Ryan commented on the results: "We’re all so busy with work and life commitments, when it comes to holiday planning – most of us want it to be stress-free." She added, "With a destination like the Gold Coast, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to relaxing, and there’s plenty to do if you feel like being active."
The survey positions the Gold Coast as the jewel in Queensland's tourism crown, highlighting its blend of relaxation and activities. No specific timeline for the poll was detailed beyond its recent release, but it aligns with ongoing trends in domestic travel preferences.