Destinations

The Whitsundays

In the heart of Queensland's Great Barrier Reef, lie the Whitsundays; 74 islands floating like jewels in the tropical warm waters of the Coral Sea. From your very first sunset, you'll lose yourself to its beauty in unique places such as:

• The 74 Island Wonders that are mostly uninhabited provide the perfect setting for a day of exploring or simply relaxing on the secluded beaches and coves. Of the resort islands, there is a choice ranging from world-class luxury to budget hideaways. Resort islands in the region include Hayman, Hamilton, Daydream, Lindeman, Long and South Molle.
• Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island is a must-see. Experience walking along this 4 mile stretch of sweeping, pure white silica sand which is often voted as one of the best beaches in the world.
• Great Barrier Reef – The Whitsundays is a perfect access point to the Great Barrier Reef. Join a cruise, see the spectacular site from a seaplane or glass bottom boat, or take a diving or snorkelling tour.
• Heart Reef – Fly over this iconic site, a stunning composition of coral that has naturally formed into the shape of a heart.
• Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays, a cosmopolitan and vibrant beach town filled with palm-fringed beaches, waterfront parks and alfresco dining restaurants. Airlie Beach is the epitome of a beach town; you'll instantly feel the carefree and relaxed environment.

Once the sun sets on Airlie Beach, another ambiance embraces the town. You'll find a thriving energy from the bars and nightclubs where backpackers and travellers party together well into the night. This energy is both contagious and irresistible, often encouraging travellers to stay longer than expected.

The Whitsundays offer something for everyone, from a fun-filled, adventure-packed family holiday to a luxurious romantic escape for two. Explore this incredible diversity from the bow of a sailboat, cruise through the islands and disembark at a resort, or drop anchor for a quick snorkel or dive and fall asleep at night to the gentle rocking of the waves under a canopy of stars.

Whitsunday Islands

• Hayman Island
  The multi award-winning Hayman is widely recognised as one of the top resort destinations in the world. This private luxury island is the most northerly island of the Whitsundays, and offers magnificent views, beautiful accommodation and an array of activities.
• Hamilton Island
  The largest inhabited island in the Whitsundays, it is the only island with an airport catering for direct commercial and charter flights. It offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from 3-star bungalows to luxurious villas with private courtyards. Hamilton is great for both families and couples.
• Daydream Island
  Daydream Island Resort features an outdoor aquarium containing more than 1,500 species of fish and coral. It also has a unique outdoor cinema and one of Australia’s most advanced day spas.
• Lindeman Island
  The international Club Med resort occupies just a corner of the island's 690 hectares that is mostly national park. This family-friendly resort offers a wide range of water sports and activities.
• Brampton Island
  Surrounded by sparkling waters and coral gardens, with seven golden beaches and lush national park, Brampton Island is the ideal haven for couples. It is tranquil and romantic, with fewer rooms than most of the other island resorts.
• Long Island
  Long Island offers three resorts, catering to different budgets and needs. Comprising mostly national park, it has over 13 km of walking tracks that end at stunning lookouts and beautiful secluded beaches
• Hook Island
  This rugged island features breathtaking lookouts and excellent snorkelling and scuba diving. It has camping sites as well as resort accommodation that is great for budget travellers.
• South Molle Island
  Located in the heart of the Whitsundays, South Molle has undulating grasslands, sheltered bays and a palm-fringed beach. It offers various levels of accommodation including beachfront units and backpacker facilities.

Places to Visit

Bowen
Encircled by rolling hills to the west and idyllic islands to the east, Bowen is one of Queensland’s hidden gems. It has pristine beaches and coral, beautiful bays, rich fields, eucalypt forests and heritage architecture.

Proserpine
Proserpine is the administrative hub for the Whitsunday Shire, which embraces the rural mainland districts and national parks, the holiday coast and the islands of the Whitsunday passage.

Shute Harbour
This large sheltered inlet, sprinkled with boats and flanked by steep, wooded banks, is a hive of marine activity. It is the embarkation point for ferries to the island resorts as well as Fantasea's day trips to the reef.