Kingscliff, Tyalgum, Ballina, Grafton and Maclean seen as some of the best tourist towns in NSW

These 5 towns on the North Coast are considered to be some of the best in the state after being selected for their tourism efforts.

Five towns on the North Coast have been announced as finalists in the NSW Top Tourism Towns Awards.

The inaugural NSW Tourism Industry Council program is designed to recognise both well-established and emerging tourism towns in NSW.

Kingscliff, Tyalgum, Ballina, Grafton and Maclean were selected in the two categories - Top Tourism Town and Small Tourism Town.

Finalists were chosen based on a range of criteria, including the provision of excellent visitor experiences, a strong commitment to encouraging tourism and increasing visitation, as well as having a focus on local collaborations to maximise the potential of the visitor economy.

Tweed Tourism Company general manager Bradley Nardi said that having two Tweed towns selected as finalists, one in each of the nominated categories, was testament to the strong local drive to nurture tourism for the benefit of both business and community.

“We are thrilled that both Kingscliff and Tyalgum have been recognised as finalists in the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, presenting a great opportunity to celebrate the people, places and experiences that the Tweed offers, from coast to hinterland,” Mr Nardi said.

Kingscliff Photo: Ryan Fowler

“Tourism is so important to our local businesses, particularly after a year that has seen communities navigate the impacts of bushfires, floods, the COVID pandemic and state border issues, emerging from all of this with an optimism and strong desire to enhance their tourism offering and continue welcoming our valued visitors.

“Whether you're local to the Tweed or have visited Kingscliff and Tyalgum on holidays, we’re encouraging everyone to share their love of the Tweed and show it with a vote!”

Public voting is now open until Friday, May 14.

Kingscliff has been nominated as a finalist in the NSW Top Tourism Town category while Tyalgum has been nominated as a finalist in the NSW Small Tourism Town category.

Other North Coast towns have also been nominated, including Ballina, Maclean and Grafton.

To vote, visit the NSW Top Tourism Award website.