The Whitsundays has been revealed as Australia’s most over-touristed destination, with 4.2 international tourists to every resident, beating other well-known tourist hotspots such as the Gold Coast, with an average of 1.04 tourists to every resident.
Australian-based luggage brand, Kadi Luggage, uncovered which popular Australian tourist destinations are the most over-touristed by comparing the latest international visitor arrival data from Statista with resident population sizes from official government data sources.
For those seeking a more peaceful getaway, Kadi has suggested quieter alternatives that offer the same breathtaking landscapes, just without the crowds.
Harry Saunders, Co-founder of Kadiluggage.com commented:
“Australia’s iconic destinations like the Whitsundays and Gold Coast are undeniably breathtaking, but their growing popularity can make it hard for visitors to truly enjoy the serenity and natural beauty they’re known for.
“Many cherished destinations worldwide and locally are experiencing over-tourism which can have negative impacts on the local environment and residents. The good news is that Australia has plenty of lesser-known gems that offer an authentic experience without the overwhelming crowds.”
The Most Over-Touristed Regions in Australia
Click here to see the full dataset
1) Whitsundays, Queensland
With 4.20 tourists to every resident, the Whitsundays is revealed as the most over-touristed destination in Australia.
Located off the Queensland coast, the Islands are best known for their breathtaking natural beauty. The crystal clear waters are one of the main attractions, as many tourists visit to snorkel and take in the beautiful marine life it is home to. The beautiful scenery of the Whitsunday islands teamed with the subtropical climate, makes it one of the most popular beach destinations in Australia.
Quieter alternative: The Keppel Islands, Queensland
Just off the Yeppoon coast, the beautiful Keppel Islands serve as a more tranquil alternative to the Whitsundays. While there are water activities like kayaking and snorkelling for tourists, the area is much less crowded.
2) South Coast, New South Wales
Revealed as the second most over-touristed region in Australia is the South Coast with 1.82 tourists per resident.
The South Coast region of New South Wales stretches from Wollongong in the north to the Victorian border in the south. Home to many national parks with lagoons, beaches and rainforests, this tourist hotspot is perfect for nature lovers looking to explore. One of the popular attractions in this region is Jervis Bay, known for its pristine beaches which boast some of the whitest sand in the world.
Quieter alternative: Gippsland, Victoria
For nature-loving tourists looking for the same environment as the South Coast to explore but with less tourist traffic, the Gippsland region is home to scenic landscapes from lush national parks for wildlife spotting to peaceful beaches to wander.
3) Tropical North, Queensland
Another region making the over-touristed list is the tropical north, with 1.53 tourists to every resident.
The tourist hotspot is located in north Queensland and is known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches and coral reefs. The area’s unique mixture of tropical biodiversity from the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree rainforest makes it a great spot for tourists to experience the many wonders Australia has all within one place.
Quieter alternative: Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
The Kakadu National Park serves as a quieter alternative to the rainforests in tropical north Queensland, home to breathtaking natural wonders such as Waterfalls, billabongs, and Indigenous rock art.
The Most Over-Touristed City in Australia
Gold Coast, Queensland
The popular tourist hotspot, the Gold Coast, was revealed as the most over-touristed city in Australia, with 1.04 tourists to every resident.
Located in south-east Queensland, the “glitter strip” boasts a vibrant social scene catering to all. The beachfront area is home to Surfers Paradise, a popular stretch of beach that offers activities for everyone, whether it be having a drink and sunbathing or, for the more adventurous, joining in on the surfing culture the Gold Coast is renowned for.
Quieter alternative: Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
Coffs Harbour is less frequented than the Gold Coast, offering a quieter alternative for tourists to venture to. With beautiful beaches, surfing spots and a growing food scene, this location is ideal for those looking for the coastal environment but without the crowds the Gold Coast attracts.
