By Jeff Scotch
It might be small – tiny, in fact – but what Portsea lacks in size it more than makes up for in visitor appeal: our southern Peninsula gem has been named Victoria’s Top Tiny Tourism Town for 2026.
In presenting the award for towns with fewer than 1500 people, the Victorian Tourism Industry Council said of Portsea: “It’s a place shaped by movement, from swimming and snorkelling in calm bay waters to exploring rugged coastlines and the rich history of Point Nepean National Park.
“In the village, cafés, boutique shops and the local bar and pub create a lively, social atmosphere that carries into the evening. Just over an hour from Melbourne, it’s an easy escape that feels distinctly new and different, best experienced with your loved ones who want to make the most of it.”
Portsea will join Top Tourism Town Echuca and Top Small Tourism Town Portarlington in representing Victoria at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards next month.
The Victorian awards are determined through a combination of public voting – this year attracting a combined 30,000 votes – and independent judging, assessing each destination’s visitor appeal, tourism excellence and collaboration across the local community. They acknowledge towns that demonstrate a strong commitment to tourism; deliver outstanding visitor experiences; encourage visitation and overnight stays; and showcase collaboration between tourism operators, local businesses and their communities.
Council CEO Lisa Patroni said the awards celebrate the communities, tourism operators, volunteers and businesses that make Victoria and its regions one of Australia’s most sought-after visitor destinations.
“One of the things I love most about these awards is the pride communities take in welcoming visitors,” Ms Patroni said. “Towns rally behind one another because they understand tourism isn’t just about attracting people to visit; it’s about creating opportunities for our state.
“Every finalist has earned its place. Whether it’s incredible food and wine, breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage or unforgettable local experiences, these destinations showcase the very best of regional Victoria.”
Ms Patroni said tourism remained one of Victoria’s strongest economic drivers, contributing $48.6 billion to the Victorian economy in 2025-26 while supporting more than 322,000 jobs and almost 110,000 tourism businesses.
“When visitors stay an extra night, book a local experience or enjoy a meal in town, they’re investing directly in Victoria’s economy. That’s why these awards matter. They recognise the destinations that consistently deliver exceptional visitor experiences while supporting local economies.”
