Whitsundays

Renowned around the world for its superb sailing waterways and breathtaking beauty, the Whitsundays will dazzle visitors with its rich blue sea, pristine beaches and magnificent islands.

It stretches from Laguna Whitsundays in the south, then north to Conway National Park, Airlie Beach and Bowen. It also includes a paradise of 74 islands surrounded by the world’s largest natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef.

Of the 74 islands, only 8 are inhabited leaving 66 virtually untouched islands which provide the perfect setting for a day of exploring or simply relaxing on the secluded beaches and coves.

One of the most famous spots in the Whitsundays is the beautiful Heart Reef. Fly over the reef in a sea plane or helicopter and marvel at this breathtaking composition of coral that has been formed naturally into the shape of a heart.

Another jewel in the Whitsundays’ crown is Whitehaven Beach, consistently voted as one of the world's best beaches. Don't miss the experience of walking along this 6km stretch of pure white silica sand.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsundays, a colourful and cosmopolitan holiday town lying on the shores of a palm fringed beach and overlooking the calm waters of Pioneer Bay dotted with yachts.

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.

Whitsunday Islands

Hayman (www.hayman.com.au)

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 (www.hamiltonisland.com.au)

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 (www.daydreamisland.com)

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 (www.clubmed.com.au/lindeman/index.php)

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 (www.brampton-island.com)

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 (www.oceanhotels.com.au/longisland)

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 (www.southmolleisland.com.au)

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.