Located in the heart of the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, this spectacular destination encompasses a number of majestic islands and is the gateway to the pristine white sands of Whitehaven Beach and the crystal-clear waters of Heart Reef. Home to some of the world’s most luxurious tropical resorts, the Whitsundays is a perfect dream destination for sailing, swimming, helicopter rides and snorkelling in its secluded beaches and hidden bays.
Whitehaven Beach
One of the most famous beaches in Australia, Whitehaven has sands so white, they remain cool in the hottest of days and turquoise waters so clear, you can spot marine life and coral. Stretching over 7km, you can enjoy the absolute seclusion of a private beach while experiencing all the fun of a highly coveted tourist destination.
Sailing
Charter a yacht and sip champagne as you sail the glassy waters of Queensland’s Whitsunday Passage. If you have time, you can even live aboard a boat for several days, island hopping and discovering hidden bays, spectacular hikes and remote snorkelling locations, completely immersing yourself in the vast beauty of nature.
Snorkelling/ Diving
Stretching over 2300km long, the Whitsundays gives you access to the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy an aquatic adventure aboard a speedy and spacious ocean raft, luxury yacht or charter boat before plunging into the tropical waters to snorkel or dive your way around the coral-fringed islands and multiple reefs, surrounding yourself with a myriad of colourful fish.
Scenic Flights
Enjoy breathtaking aerial views over the Whitsundays beaches and rainforests. Fly over the breathtaking Heart, Hook and Hardy reefs. Marvel at the stunning sight of the reef’s turquoise water melting with the striking white sands of Hill Inlet.
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How to get there:
The best way to access the Whitsundays is by plane. The Whitsundays has two airports. The Whitsunday Coast Airport near Proserpine, this is the best option if you are staying on the mainland in the suburbs surrounding Airlie Beach. The second airport is The Great Barrier Reef Airport located on Hamilton Island. Transfers are then arranged out to the surrounding island resorts. If you are travelling from overseas, connections to these airports are from Brisbane, Sydney, Cairns or Melbourne.
Best time to go:
September is an ideal time to visit the Whitsundays as the early spring weather provides sunny days, minimal rainfall, low humidity, and comfortable temperature of up to 26°C. Winter is another popular time to visit the area to escape the colder weather elsewhere! Water temperatures remain a welcoming 25 degrees Celsius most of the year round. Keep in mind that ‘Stinger Season’ is Oct to May. The likelihood of being stung is minimal however tour operators recommend wearing a full length lycra suit during these higher risk periods.
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