Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

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Luxury Escapes Guide to Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays — Introduction

At the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, just off the beautiful tropical coast of Queensland, you’ll find the Whitsundays — a group of 74 jewel-like islands ranging from well-developed vacation hubs to mostly uninhabited national parks. Among them you’ll find tropical havens such as Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Daydream Island, Long Island and Hook Island — each offering their own stunning scenery, beautiful discoveries and unique snorkeling and diving conditions.

Back on the mainland you’ll find Airlie Beach — a relaxed resort town known for its palm-fringed beaches and aquatic adventures. Launchpad to the Whitsunday Region and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach offers plenty of action, as do northern country gems such as Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine.

The Whitsundays is an unmatched playground for adventurers and resort-loungers. Australia’s dreamiest destination is home to turquoise water, sheltered coves, white-sand beaches, abundant marine and plant life, and endless gems to discover. Don’t miss one of the region’s major drawcards — Whitehaven Beach. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches on earth, its 98 percent silica sand is so white it appears surreal.

Whether you come for the tranquil scenery, to sail the rarely ruffled waters, snorkel with the whole ocean at your fingertips or simply sink your toes into a fusion of white sand and iridescent water, there is a Whitsundays experience for you.

Why not check out Luxury Escapes Guide to Hamilton Island for more inspiration.

Please note that due to current restrictions some operators may be temporarily closed. Check their websites for the most up-to-date information.

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Things to see and do

Enjoy a quick dip in the Airlie Beach Lagoon

Located on the waterfront of Airlie Beach, Airlie Beach Lagoon is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation. Providing an environment that is completely safe from stingers all year round, this patrolled haven was constructed on a raised breakwater, allowing excellent views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. As well as featuring several pools for all ages and fitness levels, this man-made watering hole is surrounded by lush grassy knolls and landscaped gardens, perfect for a spot of sunbathing. Best of all, there is no admission fee.

Get away from it all on the Honeyeater Lookout Trail

Home to some of the most diverse and impressive landscapes in the world, Australia is spoiled for choice when it comes to spectacular hiking destinations. Located just outside the Whitsundays, the tropical refuge of Conway National Park features one of the finest: the Whitsundays Great Walk. If you’re not quite ready for a 30-kilometer hike, tackle just part of the walk with the shorter Honeyeater Lookout Trail. Winding through a magnificent tropical setting and past seasonal creeks, this two-hour round-trip walk will eventually lead you to a lookout offering magnificent views beyond Cannonvale, Dryander National Park and the Whitsunday Islands.

Cool off at Cedar Creek Falls

Located halfway between Airlie Beach and Proserpine, Cedar Creek Falls is a spectacular waterfall set in a natural rock amphitheater. Surrounded by white cedar trees, Alexander palms, wild orchids and dry eucalyptus forest, the clear water of the famed rock pool is an easy walk from the parking lot. Don’t forget your swimsuits! After a refreshing dip, head to the lookout, a 20-minute round-trip, easy trail offering incredible waterfall views. You can also venture deep into the ancient Conway National Park to Cedar Creek Falls — on the lookout for unique flora and fauna — on a Rainforest & Waterfalls group tour.

Get up close to the Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays

The Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach are regarded as some of the most unique and incredible natural wonders in the world. With Cruise Whitsundays, you can explore the region’s hidden corners, uninhabited sand cays, small islands, exotic sea life and pristine reef systems, all in complete comfort. Accompanied by expert guides on purpose-designed and built expedition ships, you’ll be brought closer to remote sites and natural habitats in the most immersive and educational experience possible.

Go barramundi fishing at Lake Proserpine

There are over 4,000 species of fish in Australia, but the elusive barramundi is the one everyone wants on the end of their line. Cast a line at Lake Proserpine — also known as Peter Faust Dam — from the shore or aboard a boat, any time of day or night (barramundi bite all year round in both fresh and saltwater), and benefit from the recent barra-boom. Everybody has an opinion on the best way to catch barra, so if it’s your first time, join a tour or charter and be shown everything you’ve ever wanted to know.