From laid-back coastal cities to surreal desert towns, NSW is home to some incredibly magical holiday destinations. And while we’re always happy to share our personal favourite NSW spots for a staycation or adventure, it’s interesting to see which operators the people within the tourism industry think are the best in the state. Last night, the NSW Tourism Association announced the winners of the NSW Tourism Awards 2024 – here’s who came out on top.
This year’s winners came from all across the state, with the South Coast, Blue Mountains and Northern Rivers regions picking up a fair proportion of the gold awards. Several Sydney-based businesses also made it to the podium, with Lets Go Surfing and Oz Jet Boating taking the silver and bronze awards in the Adventure Tourism category respectively, Sydney’s Local Sauce Tours coming in second place in the Cultural Tourism category, Captain Cook Cruises scoring gold in the Major Tour and Transport Operators category and Sydney-based Activity Tours Australia coming in third place in the Tour and Transport Operators category. Another deserving Sydney winner was Sydney By Kayak, who took home gold in the Take 3 For The Sea Award For Visitor Litter Prevention and silver in the Ecotourism category.
Our friends up in the Byron region also won big, with several Byron-based activities (including Balloon Aloft and Lets Go Surfing) ranking among the winners, Northern Rivers Rail Trail scoring gold in the Tourist Attractions category, and Bluesfest Byron Bay scoring gold in the Major Festivals and Events category.
The stunning Sierra Escape was awarded gold in the Unique Accommodation category (it’s one of our favourite glamping spots in the state) and Pipit Restaurant in Pottsville (another Northern Rivers gem, and one of our favourite regional restaurants for 2024) took home silver in the Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services category.
You can check out a full list of all the winners from last night’s awards (and plan your next holiday accordingly) here.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do and travel inspo, straight to your inbox.