{"id":4885,"date":"2023-10-30T16:39:55","date_gmt":"2023-10-30T05:39:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/?p=4885"},"modified":"2024-02-27T11:55:27","modified_gmt":"2024-02-27T00:55:27","slug":"airlie-beach-great-barrier-reef","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/airlie-beach-great-barrier-reef\/","title":{"rendered":"Why I\u2019m Now Obsessed with the Great Barrier Reef"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong><em>Sleeping under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef, hikes to secret coves and swims among stingrays at Australia\u2019s most beautiful beach \u2013 and I did it all from my Airlie Beach base, says Felicia Arhontissas.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For anyone venturing to tropical North Queensland, Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination. On a recent trip to the Sunshine State, my time revolved around this lively beach town. Year-round tropical weather, an electrifying night life and a UNESCO World Heritage site at its doorstep make it the perfect base for adventures to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is how I spent my short-but-sweet time in The Whitsundays, packed to the brim with incredible day trips.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"lux_UI lux_offer_carousel\">\n\t\n\t<h3>Discover Airlie Beach<\/h3>\t\n\t<section class=\"splide lux_offer_carousel_feed\" aria-label=\"Luxury Escapes: Discover Airlie Beach\">\n\t\n\t\t<div class=\"splide__arrows\">\n\t\t<button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button>\n\t\t<button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t<div class=\"splide__track\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide__list\">\n\t\t\t\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000Ez3OeAAJ\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/club-wyndham-airlie-beach-queensland-australia\/0062y00000Ez3OeAAJ\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"Club Wyndham Airlie Beach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/mqv6h3wksel69x7lgr7g.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/mqv6h3wksel69x7lgr7g.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/mqv6h3wksel69x7lgr7g.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/mqv6h3wksel69x7lgr7g.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/mqv6h3wksel69x7lgr7g.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/mqv6h3wksel69x7lgr7g.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Club Wyndham Airlie Beach, Airlie Beach, Queensland\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Queensland<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Club Wyndham Airlie Beach<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Airlie Beach Apartment-Style Resort with Ocean Views &#038; Outdoor Pool<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 apt. from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$392<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$405<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$549<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-26%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y000005JeClAAK\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/pavilions-collection-airlie-beach-queensland\/0062y000005JeClAAK\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"Pavilions Collection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/3hmt031mbg1g223djmn.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/3hmt031mbg1g223djmn.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/3hmt031mbg1g223djmn.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/3hmt031mbg1g223djmn.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/3hmt031mbg1g223djmn.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/3hmt031mbg1g223djmn.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Pavilions Collection, Airlie Beach, Queensland\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Queensland<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Pavilions Collection<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Ultra-Stylish Airlie Beach Apartment Escape Near the Waterfront<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$570<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$620<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$724<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-14%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000Do4fPAAR\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/the-boathouse-apartments-airlie-beach-queensland-australia\/0062y00000Do4fPAAR\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"The Boathouse Apartments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Queensland<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Boathouse Apartments<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Stylish Airlie Beach Apartment Escape for up to Seven Guests with Views of the Whitsundays<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$910<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$939<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$1,041<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-9%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000GvFwsAAF\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/mirage-whitsundays-queensland-australia\/0062y00000GvFwsAAF\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"Mirage Whitsundays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/wk2takl0oqd97shxh6ue.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/wk2takl0oqd97shxh6ue.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/wk2takl0oqd97shxh6ue.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/wk2takl0oqd97shxh6ue.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/wk2takl0oqd97shxh6ue.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/wk2takl0oqd97shxh6ue.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Mirage Whitsundays, Airlie Beach, Queensland\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Queensland<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Mirage Whitsundays<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Boutique Airlie Beach Waterfront Apartment Escape with Two Pools, Spa &#038; Onsite Restaurant<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 apt. from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$693<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$716<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_02353d91-09e9-4147-a35d-f0ea5f1d2b0e\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/coral-sea-resort\/02353d91-09e9-4147-a35d-f0ea5f1d2b0e\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Coral Sea Resort\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/xzbn2uihvvd1i6pk85ph.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/xzbn2uihvvd1i6pk85ph.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/xzbn2uihvvd1i6pk85ph.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/xzbn2uihvvd1i6pk85ph.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/xzbn2uihvvd1i6pk85ph.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/xzbn2uihvvd1i6pk85ph.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Coral Sea Resort, Airlie Beach, Australia\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Australia<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Coral Sea Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. If you&#8217;re looking for recreational opportunities, you&#8217;ll find an outdoor pool and bicycles to rent. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,582<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_088a3341-3741-4838-93d1-c438d7fb7bed\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/candlelight-airlie-beach\/088a3341-3741-4838-93d1-c438d7fb7bed\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Candlelight - Airlie Beach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/g6eg7vlmkcf8igmgxx1.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/g6eg7vlmkcf8igmgxx1.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/g6eg7vlmkcf8igmgxx1.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/g6eg7vlmkcf8igmgxx1.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/g6eg7vlmkcf8igmgxx1.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/g6eg7vlmkcf8igmgxx1.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Candlelight - Airlie Beach, Airlie Beach, Australia\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Australia<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Candlelight &#8211; Airlie Beach<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Enjoy the recreation opportunities such as an outdoor pool or make use of other amenities including complimentary wireless internet access.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"no_price\">Select your dates<\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_13c5cf80-c995-40ba-a52f-a6c60e53551a\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/at-waterfront-whitsunday-retreat\/13c5cf80-c995-40ba-a52f-a6c60e53551a\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"at Waterfront Whitsunday Retreat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/ccfdghp6iugqophwpwr.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/ccfdghp6iugqophwpwr.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/ccfdghp6iugqophwpwr.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/ccfdghp6iugqophwpwr.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/ccfdghp6iugqophwpwr.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/ccfdghp6iugqophwpwr.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"at Waterfront Whitsunday Retreat, Airlie Beach, Australia\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Australia<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">at Waterfront Whitsunday Retreat<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Head down to the water and enjoy a day at the private beach, or take advantage of other recreational amenities, which include an outdoor pool. Additional features at this aparthotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$745<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_14dc020c-555a-4946-bd26-a4b8cda1a574\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/heart-hotel-and-gallery-whitsundays\/14dc020c-555a-4946-bd26-a4b8cda1a574\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/728oetxgwzu19vyglwo.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/728oetxgwzu19vyglwo.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/728oetxgwzu19vyglwo.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/728oetxgwzu19vyglwo.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/728oetxgwzu19vyglwo.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/728oetxgwzu19vyglwo.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays, Airlie Beach, Australia\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Australia<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Enjoy recreation amenities such as bicycles to rent or take in the view from a garden. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops\/newsstands.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$700<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_159b73b1-2918-4810-b57d-36c687df1a67\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_cef7fc65b1295195bbf21d7047fc904f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/toscana-village-resort\/159b73b1-2918-4810-b57d-36c687df1a67\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Toscana Village Resort\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/qb5im79lcajvoyl5lx4e.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/qb5im79lcajvoyl5lx4e.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/qb5im79lcajvoyl5lx4e.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/qb5im79lcajvoyl5lx4e.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/qb5im79lcajvoyl5lx4e.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/qb5im79lcajvoyl5lx4e.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Toscana Village Resort, Airlie Beach, Australia\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Australia<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Toscana Village Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Take in the views from a garden and make use of amenities such as babysitting (surcharge) and tour\/ticket assistance. This aparthotel also features a picnic area, barbecue grills, and a reception hall.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,214<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"offer_x\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_cta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/hotels\/location\/airlie-beach\/queensland\/australia\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"carousel\" data-name=\"View more Airlie Beach escapes\">\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"slide_cta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cta_tag\">Looking for something else?<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View all<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\t\n\t\t<div class=\"cta\">\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/hotels\/location\/airlie-beach\/queensland\/australia\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"carousel\" data-name=\"View more Airlie Beach escapes\">View more Airlie Beach escapes<\/a>\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 1: Whitehaven Beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Whitsundays&amp;destinationId=le_02785edd54b40735ce22cea83094508a&amp;adults=2&amp;children=none&amp;flexibleWithDate=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"An aerial view of the sandbars at Whitehaven Beach, one of the best places to visit near the Great Barrier Reef\" class=\"wp-image-4991\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/136307-400484-56-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Whitehaven Beach from Hill Inlet Lookout. Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>My time in The Whitsundays began with a visit to Whitehaven Beach with <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/experience\/airlie-beach-full-day-whitsunday-catamaran-cruise-with-buffet-lunch-snorkelling-and-byo-drinks\/led:0062y00000FMuFqAAL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Red Cat Adventures<\/a>. After their shuttle whisked me from <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/offer\/the-boathouse-apartments-airlie-beach-queensland-australia\/0062y00000Do4fPAAR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Boathouse Apartments<\/a> to Coral Sea Marina, I was handed a wetsuit before boarding a speedy scarlet catamaran \u2013 one of the fastest in The Whitsundays. \u201cHold onto your hats,\u201d our guide advised, \u201cbecause we\u2019re only stopping for a lost hat if there\u2019s a head attached to it.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cue AC\/DC\u2019s <em>Thunderstruck<\/em>, blaring from the speakers as the boat sped over choppy waves, intermittent sprays of saltwater drenching the first five rows, much to the delight of the thrill seekers up front. At Tongue Bay, we disembarked and meandered to Hill Inlet Lookout for some of the best views in the Whitsundays. The turquoise water below swirled in ever-changing patterns drawn by sand, the shapes dictated by the changing tides. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Itching to get into the water, we headed back along the walking trail, turning right off the main path toward the beach. The sand underfoot, made from quartz and 98% silica beads, felt soft as silk. And through the crystal-clear water we could clearly see the dark shapes of stingrays moving in a graceful dance around us while we swam.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 2: Reef World, Outer Great Barrier Reef<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Whitsundays&amp;destinationId=le_02785edd54b40735ce22cea83094508a&amp;adults=2&amp;children=none&amp;flexibleWithDate=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"A Catamaran in the ocean near Airlie Beach, one of the best activities to do near the Great Barrier Reef\" class=\"wp-image-4992\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-2048x1364.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/149849-2022_WYS_AirlieBeach_CruiseWhits-1200x799.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Reef World.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef? Sleeping on the Reef World pontoon above Hardy Reef. Here I was to learn about the Outer Great Barrier Reef firsthand, thanks to a Reefsleep stay with Cruise Whitsundays. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By late morning we arrived at our pontoon and home for the night. We were invited to don wetsuits and set off on a snorkelling safari, sign up for a diving excursion or simply soak up the sunshine with an icy drink on the top deck. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Snorkelling in Hardy Reef feels like dreaming in technicolour. Picture shimmering turquoise parrotfish, yellow-striped butterflyfish, fluorescent-blue-tipped hard coral, and peachy soft coral swaying with the current. Deeper out, we spotted a big-lipped M\u0101ori wrasse, giant clams, silver giant trevally and a 350kg Queensland grouper called George who liked to hang around the pontoon \u2013&nbsp;he\u2019d become a sort of celebrity out here.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The overnight included drinks and all meals prepared by a French chef. We even snacked on sunset canapes with prosecco. Dinner kicked off with scallops, cooked oysters with chili and grilled prawns followed by Spanish mackerel prepared to perfection and served with velvety sweet-potato mash and roasted broccolini and asparagus. A decadent brownie drizzled with raspberry compote capped off this memorable meal. Post dinner, I descended below deck to the underwater observatory. Here, time fell away as I sat mesmerised by a silver wall of giant trevally swimming before me, attracted by the lights from the pontoon.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Whitsundays&amp;destinationId=le_02785edd54b40735ce22cea83094508a&amp;adults=2&amp;children=none&amp;flexibleWithDate=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-1024x767.jpg\" alt=\"A deck aboard a cruise near the Great Barrier Reef\" class=\"wp-image-4990\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-1024x767.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-350x262.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-768x575.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-1536x1151.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-2048x1534.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Reefsleep-1-1200x899.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Reefsleep swags aboard the pontoon.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We slept in two-person swags on the top deck, overlooking the reef and kitted with a mattress, night light and fan. While every part of the Reefsleep was memorable, the moment that lingers in my memory was witnessing the sunrise from the comfort of my swag\u2019s flap door. Watching the sky shift from grey to purple, gold and finally blue as the sun rose over the horizon was well worth waking early for.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 3: Airlie Beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Whitsundays&amp;destinationId=le_02785edd54b40735ce22cea83094508a&amp;adults=2&amp;children=none&amp;flexibleWithDate=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments near the water in Airlie Beach, one of the best destinations near the Great Barrier Reef\" class=\"wp-image-5223\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2-350x197.jpeg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2-1200x675.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Boathouse-Apartments-2.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Airlie Beach is worth a day all to itself. Locals typically organise a catch up &#8216;at the Lagoon&#8217; where you can enjoy a splash or find a quiet spot on the grassy knoll for a sneaky afternoon nap. If you\u2019re willing to venture just out of town, you\u2019ll find some of Queensland&#8217;s most impressive beaches including Hideaway Bay, Coral Beach and Grays Bay.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I opted to spend my evening soaking up the town. My self-contained two-bedroom apartment boasted a prime location along the marina, and my furnished balcony overlooked super yachts docked in the marina \u2013 it was the perfect spot for a sunset drink. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I was an easy five-minute walk from the town\u2019s main street where I passed restaurants, pubs, bars and shops. On the hunt for live music, I followed the crowds to Magnums\u2019 beer garden and was met by cheap pints, a buzzing atmosphere and some toe-tapping tunes. For dinner, I was spoilt for choice, with everything from juicy burgers and frozen daiquiris at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitsundaymenu.com.au\/little-vegas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Little Vegas Burger &amp; Bar<\/a>, to seafood towers at Airlie Beach institution <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au\/where-to-eat\/fish-dvine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fish D\u2019vine<\/a>, and sizzling steaks at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au\/where-to-eat\/kcs-bar-and-grill\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">KC\u2019s Bar &amp; Grill<\/a>. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"lux_UI lux_single_dealcard cacheid_d46c3570717d7291e528b44e35faf92d\">\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_preview\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide lux_dealcard_gallery\" aria-label=\"Luxury Escapes: The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland\"><div class=\"splide__arrows\"><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button><\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/the-boathouse-apartments-airlie-beach-queensland-australia\/0062y00000Do4fPAAR\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC  LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"The Boathouse Apartments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\"><div class=\"splide__track\"><div class=\"splide__list\"><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 1\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/ifhechgz6yijbqzhiy17.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/ifhechgz6yijbqzhiy17.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/ifhechgz6yijbqzhiy17.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/ifhechgz6yijbqzhiy17.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/ifhechgz6yijbqzhiy17.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 2\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9smy4iuxc07sz3yacjqn6.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/9smy4iuxc07sz3yacjqn6.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/9smy4iuxc07sz3yacjqn6.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/9smy4iuxc07sz3yacjqn6.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9smy4iuxc07sz3yacjqn6.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 3\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/6xdbktx8sgrll9p2mamb.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/6xdbktx8sgrll9p2mamb.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/6xdbktx8sgrll9p2mamb.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/6xdbktx8sgrll9p2mamb.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/6xdbktx8sgrll9p2mamb.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 4\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/844tciwiealnkjwhzlu.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/844tciwiealnkjwhzlu.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/844tciwiealnkjwhzlu.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/844tciwiealnkjwhzlu.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/844tciwiealnkjwhzlu.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 5\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/xfyysnapen66cuqfwg0v.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/xfyysnapen66cuqfwg0v.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/xfyysnapen66cuqfwg0v.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/xfyysnapen66cuqfwg0v.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/xfyysnapen66cuqfwg0v.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 6\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/r52qcf9ypy2lf3x5vxa.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/r52qcf9ypy2lf3x5vxa.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/r52qcf9ypy2lf3x5vxa.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/r52qcf9ypy2lf3x5vxa.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/r52qcf9ypy2lf3x5vxa.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 7\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/asqdp2vstl13jtoiv66.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/asqdp2vstl13jtoiv66.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/asqdp2vstl13jtoiv66.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/asqdp2vstl13jtoiv66.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/asqdp2vstl13jtoiv66.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach, Queensland 8\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_details\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/the-boathouse-apartments-airlie-beach-queensland-australia\/0062y00000Do4fPAAR\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC deal_card LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"The Boathouse Apartments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t\t<div class=\"dealcard_details_inner\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Airlie Beach, Queensland<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Boathouse Apartments<\/div><span class=\"inclusions_label\">Luxury Escapes inclusions:<\/span><div class=\"inclusions_list\"><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/clock_with_plus.svg\" alt=\"clock_with_plus\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>Late 11am checkout, subject to availability<\/span><\/div><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/drink_tray.svg\" alt=\"drink_tray\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>Welcome bottle of wine (3+ nights)<\/span><\/div><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/tag.svg\" alt=\"tag\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>5% discount on any tours booked through reception (7+ nights)<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"rating_box\"><span class=\"rating_count gold \">9.0<\/span><span class=\"rating_label\">Exceptional<\/span><span class=\"rating_reviews\">282 reviews<\/span><\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$910<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$939<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$1,041<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-9%<\/span><\/div><div class=\"tax\">taxes &#038; fees apply<\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View offer<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\n    \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n    \"@type\": \"Hotel\",\n    \"name\": \"The Boathouse Apartments\",\n    \"address\": {\n        \"@type\": \"PostalAddress\",\n        \"addressLocality\": \"Airlie Beach\",\n        \"addressCountry\": \"Queensland\"\n    },\n    \"telephone\": \"+1201 977 8523\",\n    \"aggregateRating\": {\n        \"@type\": \"AggregateRating\",\n        \"ratingValue\": \"4.5\",\n        \"reviewCount\": 282,\n        \"bestRating\": 5,\n        \"worstRating\": 1\n    },\n    \"priceRange\": \"3 nights from $939 USD\",\n    \"photo\": \"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/0kdnrw8lcalbiha8x2o.webp\",\n    \"image\": \"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/ifhechgz6yijbqzhiy17.webp\",\n    \"description\": \"Stylish Airlie Beach Apartment Escape for up to Seven Guests with Views of the Whitsundays\",\n    \"amenityFeature\": [\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Late 11am checkout, subject to availability\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Welcome bottle of wine (3+ nights)\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"5% discount on any tours booked through reception (7+ nights)\"\n        }\n    ],\n    \"geo\": {\n        \"@type\": \"GeoCoordinates\",\n        \"latitude\": -20.271490770474536,\n        \"longitude\": 148.72316687289756\n    }\n}<\/script>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 4: Hamilton Island<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Whitsundays&amp;destinationId=le_02785edd54b40735ce22cea83094508a&amp;adults=2&amp;children=none&amp;flexibleWithDate=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"The Giant Chair on Hamilton Island, one of the best destinations close to the Great Barrier Reef\" class=\"wp-image-4993\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/154650-2023_WYS_GBR_HamiltonIsland_Sout-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Giant Chair on the South East Head trail. Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Hamilton Island is ripe with experiences for any type of traveller, from nature enthusiasts to spa seekers and gourmands in search of their next feast. Today, I branded myself a hiker, keen to explore some of the bushland \u2013 which makes up 70% of the island. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My backpack crammed with sunscreen, water, snacks and a camera, I set off for Coral Cove. Following the trail through bushland, I paused at the halfway point to take in views of the mangroves cropping out from aquamarine waters. This moderate trek takes approximately two hours to complete and starts just a five-minute golf buggy ride from the marina. The prize? A pristine beach, fringed by palm trees and featuring a giant swing. I stayed for what felt like hours, enjoying a mini picnic, lazing on the sand with a book in hand and cooling off in the glassy water. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Felicia Arhontissas visited The Whitsundays as a guest of Tourism Whitsundays.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Feature image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready to visit Airlie Beach?<\/strong> Book a stylish, self-contained stay at <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/offer\/the-boathouse-apartments-airlie-beach-queensland-australia\/0062y00000Do4fPAAR\">The Boathouse Apartments<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/queenslands-most-exclusive-island-resort-lizard-island-resort\/\">Is This Queensland&#8217;s Most Exclusive Island Resort?&nbsp;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sleeping under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef, hikes to secret coves and swims among stingrays at Australia\u2019s most beautiful beach \u2013 and I did it all from my Airlie Beach base, says Felicia Arhontissas. For anyone venturing to tropical North Queensland, Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination. On a recent trip to the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":5228,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18,11],"tags":[12,13],"location":[],"customertype":[],"class_list":["post-4885","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-queensland","category-australia","tag-bucket-list","tag-outdoor-adventure"],"acf":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/GBR-scaled.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"lux_id":4885,"lux_link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/airlie-beach-great-barrier-reef\/","lux_title":"Why I\u2019m Now Obsessed with the Great Barrier Reef","lux_excerpt":"Sleeping under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef, hikes to secret coves and swims among stingrays at Australia\u2019s most beautiful beach \u2013 and I did it all from my Airlie Beach base, says Felicia Arhontissas. For anyone venturing to tropical North Queensland, Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination. On a recent trip to the [\u2026]","lux_excerpt_trimmed":"Sleeping under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef, hikes to secret coves and swims among stingrays at Australia\u2019s most beautiful beach \u2013 and I did it all from my","lux_image_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/GBR-scaled.jpg","lux_image_url_medium":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/GBR-350x233.jpg","lux_image_url_large":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/GBR-1024x683.jpg","lux_image_url_square":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/GBR-500x500.jpg","lux_categories":[{"label":"Queensland","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/australia\/queensland\/"},{"label":"Australia","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/australia\/"}],"lux_tags":[{"label":"Bucket List","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/bucket-list\/"},{"label":"Outdoor &amp; Adventure","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/outdoor-adventure\/"}],"lux_locations":[],"lux_customer_types":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4885","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4885"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4885\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5228"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4885"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4885"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4885"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=4885"},{"taxonomy":"customertype","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/customertype?post=4885"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}