Regional Australia has emerged as a popular destination for Australian travellers during the Easter break, according to new research from regional media collective Boomtown.

The research indicates that 69% of metro residents and 86% of regional travellers favour regional destinations for their Easter holidays. Among regional Australians, half are considering or planning a holiday over Easter, with 60% opting to stay within their own state. Similarly, 52% of metro travellers plan to remain in their state for the Easter break.

The travel preferences of industry executives also reflect this trend towards regional holidays. Chief Marketing Officer of The Iconic, Joanna Robinson, said: "Over Easter, I love visiting Boomerang Beach on the NSW North Coast with my family, because it offers such a beautiful, peaceful and calm environment. It's a place where we can truly unwind and relax, making it a cherished holiday destination for us. We are looking forward to swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on the pristine sands and beautiful clear waters. It really is a little piece of paradise."

Head of Trading at Omnicom Media Group, John Lynch, said: "What’s not to love about holidaying in Boomtown! This year has the added bonus of an Easter and ANZAC public holiday double hitter. It’s nice to get out of town and enjoy quality time with the kids. I love how regional Australia offers a unique charm with its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life that lets you truly unwind. Plus, the kids get to experience nature up close and personal, making memories that will last a lifetime. Boomtown has something for everyone."

Boomtown Chair, Brian Gallagher, favours the Hunter region in Northern NSW for Easter holidays. "Regional Australian destinations offer everything a family could want for Easter holidays – a relaxed environment, friendly locals, beautiful scenery – from the beaches to the bush at the Hunter, and not to mention one or two pretty good wineries and restaurants to choose from! It’s little wonder that Boomtown is such a popular travel destination over Easter – even regional residents want to travel to regional destinations and why wouldn’t you," he said.

Principal at Third Avenue Consulting, Rochelle Burbury, prefers the Margaret River in the south west of Western Australia for her autumn break.

"The Margaret River region, stretching from Cape Naturaliste in the north to Cape Leeuwin in the south where the Indian and Southern oceans meet, is a nature lovers – and wine and food lovers – paradise. A plethora of stunning beaches and world-class surf breaks dot the coastline, plus the famous Karri forests, while some of the nation’s best and most scenic wineries – 200 of them – are easily accessible from Caves Road. What I love about regional Western Australia is the locals, all friendly, helpful and passionate about what they do. Innovative winemakers and incredible chefs have sprung up all over the region, giving the big guns a run for their money. It’s exciting to be a part of. And no crowds!" she said.

Boomtown represents 9.8 million Australians living outside the five metro capitals. Its media owner members include SCA, WIN, Seven, ARN, ACM, Nine NBN, News Corp Australia, 10 Regional, and Imparja.