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The term ‘hidden gem’ gets thrown around a lot – and in the world of TikTok and Instagram, it’s not long until some slice of paradise gets fed into the algorithm. But true hidden gems – that is, beautiful destinations that are yet to blow up big time – are still out there, if you know where to look. Now, a new study has uncovered ten incredible yet lesser-known destinations in Australia that are still flying under the radar. And guess what? The country’s top hidden gem is right here in New South Wales.
RELATED READ: NSW’s 8 most enchanting small towns revealed – bookmark for your next road trip.
To determine these hidden gems, the team at Rollin’ analysed destinations across the country using five key factors: average monthly Google search demand (the lower, the better), social media visibility, the number of accommodations and attractions, distance from the nearest capital city and weather suitability. These scores were then combined to create an overall index, revealing the top ten under-the-radar locations in Oz.
Dangar Island, a tranquil car-free island just an hour north of Sydney, claimed the top spot as Australia’s ultimate hidden gem for 2026. Loved for its sense of remoteness – you’ll need to drive or catch a train to Hawkesbury River Station, then hop on a boat to reach the island – and the fact there’s no traffic, it’s a low-key island dream. Plus, with lots of stunning trails throughout the bushy headland, turquoise waters, a character-rich RSL serving cold beer and juicy burgers, it’s a perfect, still mostly under-the-radar spot to escape with a good book.
Dangar Island isn’t NSW’s only hidden gem, with second place going to Killcare, found on the Central Coast. Located on the Bouddi Peninsula between bush and beach, the coastal village offers the best of both worlds – with stunningly untouched natural environments ready for you to explore (just be sure to leave it how you found it).
In fourth place was Manyana, a charming small town on NSW’s south coast, known for its pumping waves, tight-knit community and abundant wildlife.
The top 10 hidden gem destinations in Australia:
1. Dangar Island, NSW
2. Killcare, NSW
3. Mintaro, SA
4. Manyana, NSW
5. Dawesville, WA
6. Aldgate, SA
7. Pialligo, ACT
8. Watervale, SA
9. Woonona, NSW
10. Littlehampton, SA
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