Wellness tourism

Wellness tourism is travel that intentionally enhances, maintains or improves mental and physical well-being. 

NSW contributes significantly to this trend. The state recorded $60.4 billion in visitor expenditure in 2025, supported by high interest in nature-based and wellness activities including spas, health resorts, yoga retreats, guided walks in nature, locally sourced food experiences or Aboriginal-led cultural experiences.

While these activities are an important aspect of wellness tourism, accommodation and experience providers can also add wellness elements into their regular visitor experiences. ​

Key statistics

According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments, valued at more than $1,340 billion. This growth reflects strong consumer demand for health-focused travel experiences.

Key 2024 insights for Australia:

• The wellness economy is valued at more than $43 billion.
• Australia ranks 5th globally in wellness tourism.
• 15.7 million wellness trips, with an average annual growth rate of 18.8 per cent.

Source: Global Wellness Institute