Thomas Keneally, an author who frequently travels to research for his novels, has chosen the Smoky Cape Lighthouse near South West Rocks as his number one pick.

While Simon McGrath, the chief operating officer of Accor Pacific hotels and resorts, nominates Crescent Head as number six on his list.

"A beautiful spot to recharge. It is no wonder Crescent Head is popular with surfers, the point break here is known for being one of longest rides in Australia," he said in the article published on the website Traveller.

Kempsey Shire Council General Manager, Craig Milburn said it was terrific to see the Macleay Valley Coast rightly included in the NSW best places to go.

"It is great for the region to be recognised by leading tourism experts as a top place to be travelling now COVID restrictions have eased," he told the Argus.

"We are encouraging visitors to explore their own backyard, and this article is an excellent acknowledgement of some of the amazing spots we have here in the Macleay."

All NSW travel restrictions were lifted on June 1, allowing holidays anywhere in the state. All transport methods, including flights, are allowed, and camping grounds, along with the majority of national parks can reopen.

Restaurants, pubs, cafes and clubs are allowed to have 50 customers inside their venues, but social distancing is still required.

Alcohol can be purchased without food, but customers need to stay seated and not queue up at the bar.

With visitors now allowed to return to the Macleay, General Manager Milburn hopes to see many new faces in the area over the next few weeks.

"Our tourism operators are looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the beautiful Macleay Valley Coast with open arms after enduring unprecedented times through the bushfires and then COVID," he said.

"Since the announcement of intrastate travel restrictions easing we have been using the tagline 'You've been dreaming... now's the time to drop in', pushing visitors to plan and book their next holiday to the Macleay."

For the full list of NSW wonders as chosen by the experts, head to Traveller by clicking here.

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