Whitsunday Islands Australia

Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef on the Queensland coast, lies 74 island wonders, the Whitsunday Islands Australia. The majority of the Whitsunday Islands are uninhabited national park islands, but four islands offer a variety of resort accommodations, all with the Great Barrier Reef and fringing coral reefs at their doorstep. Whether it be eco-style, family-friendly, all-inclusive, activity-based, food and wine focused or pure luxury, there is a resort experience to please everyone.

Let the spectacular landscape and endless horizon dotted with islands wash over you as you experience the ultimate in adventure and relaxation. A true paradise, the clear protected waters of the Whitsunday Islands lends itself to some of the best sailing in the southern hemisphere, so why not hire charter a yacht or go boating and be the captain of your own crew.

Relax with a sunset cocktail on board your vessel or by the resort pool. Swim at one of the many secluded beaches and witness the incredible marine life which calls the fringing reefs around the islands home. Enjoy great local seafood and produce at one of the many restaurants, and take advantage of the spa facilities to get a massage or treatment.

Or hire a jet ski and skim along the water, or take in the panorama of the Whitsundays from the air in a seaplane or helicopter. Or for the ultimate birds-eye-view, take the plunge and go skydiving above one of the most amazing natural landscapes in Australia. There really is something for everyone in the Whitsundays!  People travel from all over the world to see the white sands of Whitehaven Beach and the beauty of Heart Reef, as well as stay at some of the world’s best hotels. The Great Barrier Reef protects the islands from large swells, making them ideal for sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on secluded beaches and in hidden bays.

Whitsunday Islands Weather (When to Visit)

The Whitsundays enjoy a tropical climate of hot summers, warm winters and bright spring and autumn days. Average daily temperatures are around 73°F in the winter months of June and July, and up to 86°F in December and January during the height of summer. Water temperatures remain a welcoming 77°F most of the year round.  The tropical wet season occurs during January to March when days can be steamy and the summer heat is often broken by tropical showers.

The months of October through May is known as ‘stinger season.’ During this time, the waters may contain the box jellyfish and the Irukandji, both of which can deliver a painful and/or potentially fatal sting. Though jellyfish fatalities are highly uncommon in the Whitsunday Islands, it is always recommended to take the proper precautions. During the stinger season, swimmers and snorkelers should always wear protective stinger suits, which prevent jellyfish tentacles from accessing the covered skin. You should always pay attention to any posted signs in an area, noting if swimming is prohibited or if there are other warnings.This doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t visit the Whitsundays in stinger season. 8 million tourists visit the islands annually, throughout the entirety of the year.

September is the ideal time of year to visit the Whitsundays. It provides sunny days and the least expected rainfall, with temperatures around a maximum of 78°F. Humidity is low this time of year, and the water is generally perfect for swimming and snorkeling.  Boating enthusiasts consider September a wonderful time to enjoy a bare boat yacht charter. The tides result in beautiful full moon nights and clear skies, wonderful to enjoy from the deck. In addition to the weather considerations, the beginning of September typically does not coincide with any school holidays, meaning there are less crowds on the Whitsunday Islands.

Best Whitsunday Islands Beaches

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A.K.A The disappearing beach! Langford island is made up of a lush bluff at the west end and a tidal sand spit out to the east. Get there on a low tide and enjoy this little stretch of beach perfection with its view over looking Hayman, Black an Hook islands and corals reefs on the north side of the spit. Enjoy swimming & snorkeling with its resident turtle community, a game of beach cricket or a picnic lunch.

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Voted best beach in Australia year after year for good reason. This 7km stretch of beach earned its iconic mark with its famous silica sand & swirling sands of hill inlet at the north end – not to mention it’s crystal clear water & soft waves to lull you into relaxation while swimming! Take your jewellery! The fine silica sand is a well-known local favorite for cleaning silver & gold.

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Take a break from boat life & dock at Hamilton Island marina for the day to head to Catseye Beach. Let someone else make the cocktails while you relax in one of the hammock scattered along the beach or get amongst the action of the many water sports on offer. A resort feel is prominent at this beach & is sure to keep everyone from kids to grownups happy with it’s cheerful island vibes & palm tree lined stretch of sand.

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This popular coral beach has found a loyal following with it’s rocky backdrop and coral gardens just waiting to be explored off the shore. A popular snorkeling & diving spot, most visitors never step foot on the beach but with your boats dinghy you have the privilege of being able to head to shore and discover secret enclaves such as Dolphin Point, or have it all to yourself once the crowds have gone for the day.

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Located across the other side of Hill Inlet from Whitehaven Beach, this little gem of a beach offers picturesque rock formations and greenery close to the water to hide away in the shade in between ocean dips. If exploring is more your thing than sun baking, wander up the beach into the inlet to try spot a stingray in the shallows!

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Best Whitsunday Island Tours & Activities by Viator

Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach

Enjoy a full-day tour of the stunning Whitsunday Islands, traveling on a sturdy motorized raft to world-famous Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Beach. You get to choose from two tours that offer either more snorkeling or more beach time. Gain exclusive access to secluded spots where you can snorkel around pristine coral reefs, and take a walk with your guide in the national park to a lookout point with spectacular views. Your boat travels quickly across the ocean, giving you more time to enjoy the Whitsundays.  Learn more about the Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach.

Reef and Island Scenic Flight from Airlie Beach

Take a 1-hour scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef that provides unobstructed views of tropical islands surrounded by turquoise ocean and coral reef. Your pilot-guide shares informative commentary and points out landmarks including Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, and Hill Inlet. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Airlie Beach.  Learn more about the Reef & Island Scenic Flight from Arlie Beach.

Whitehaven Beach Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise

Set sail for the Whitsundays on-board an authentic 62-ft gaff rigged schooner and spend the day swimming and snorkeling around the islands. Admire the famous powder-white sands of Whitehaven beach, jump off to take in the views from Hill Inlet and dine on a delicious lunch on-board. Finish your adventure snorkeling amid vibrant corals and schools of brightly colored fish and keep a look out for unique varieties like parrot fish and humphead wrasse. Learn more about the Whitehaven Beach Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise.

Whitsundays Seaplane Tours

Be amazed by Queensland’s Whitsunday Islands on a seaplane tour that provides stunning panoramic aerial views. When booking, select one of five options that take you either over this picturesque section of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Australia’s number one famous beach—Whitehaven Beach. Depending on what tour you choose, sip a glass of sparkling wine on the striking white sands of Whitehaven Beach, enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride and snorkeling at your very own private lagoon at Hardy Lagoon, see the Heart Reef from the air, or all three!  Learn more about the Whitsundays Seaplane Tours.

2-Night Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure on Trimaran ‘Avatar’

Climb aboard the only commercial sailing trimaran in the Whitsunday Islands for an unforgettable 2-night voyage through these unspoiled isles that lie between the Queensland coast and the Great Barrier Reef. Soak up the sun on spacious decks, drop anchor to feel the sand between your toes on the pristine beaches of various islands, and snorkel among vibrant marine life at spots like Blue Peal Bay and Caves Cove. You won’t go hungry with all meals freshly prepared right onboard.  Learn more about the 2-Night Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure.

Best Whitsunday Islands Restaurants

Déjà Vu Restaurant  $11 – 30

With stunning views over Airlie Beach and a tropical seafood dining theme, Déjà Vu Restaurant is home to some of the best cuisine in the Whitsundays.  You’ll find Déjà Vu on the famous hillside accommodation strip, affording outdoor diners a panoramic view of the sea and Whitsundays Islands. The owner / chefs take a personalized approach to service to make sure diners have an unforgettable experience.  From poolside lunches to romantic dinners, the menu makes the most of some of the freshest seafood to complement innovative salads, gourmet panninis, and specialty dishes.  Telephone:  07 4948 4309  Web:   Déjà Vu Restaurant.

Fish D’vine  $11 – 30

No trip to Airlie Beach is complete without a trip to Fish D’vine and Rum Bar. The award winning seafood restaurant is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and scrumptious food, particularly the local chili mud crab with Hemingway Daiquiri.  Both the seafood restaurant side and the rum bar could each stand on their own. But together they infuse to create marvelous creations like the “Retro banana fritters” drizzled in “house spiced Rum syrup” and “Rum and pepper painted fish”. Telephone:  07 4948 0088  Web:   Fish D’vine.

Coca Chu  $11 – 30

Coca Chu is a beachfront restaurant with a modern Asian menu, overlooking the crystal clear Whitsundays. It doesn’t get much better than this casual dining experience with delicious, fresh food and an abundance of cocktails. They even do their own take on Yum Cha, so be sure to book a table before it fills up.  Telephone: 07 4946 9999 Web:   Coca Chu

Romano’s Restaurant  $11 – 30

Ideally situated on Hamilton Island, facing straight out onto the marina, Romano’s Restaurant is a perfect part of this island paradise. Come in for the relaxed atmosphere and delicious meals made with love and a flare for fine food.  Known for fantastic risottos, Romano’s serves a wonderful array of fresh seafood including Moreton Bay Bugs, scallops, spanner crab and many more tastes of the sea. Polish it all off with authentic gelato, tiramisu or panna cotta.  Telephone:  07 4948 8212  Web:  Romano’s Restaurant.

Village Café  $11 – 30

Right in the heart of the Whitsundays is the Village Café Restaurant & Bar, home to a unique all day dining experience. The Village offers an excellent selection of freshly prepared food, a variety of drinks and alcoholic beverages.  One of the restaurant’s specialties is the Hot Rock dining experience. Volcanic stones are subjected to extreme heat in a special oven for 10 hours before being placed in specially designed stoneware plates and delivered to you with your chosen hot rock meal. The stone locks in the nutrients, natural juices and flavors. You can choose to cook the meal yourself on the stone, or the chefs can do the cooking before presenting your meal on the hot rock.   Telephone:  07 4946 5745  Web:   Village Café.

Best Whitsunday Islands Nightlife

Anchor Bar Airlie Beach

A funky poolside rooftop restaurant with stunning views over the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands.  You’ll find great food, good music, and amazing views.  Telephone:  07 4946 6678  Web:   Anchor Bar Airlie Beach.

Shuckz Oyster and Champagne Bar

SHUCKZ Oyster and Champagne Bar specializes in oysters shucked to order, fresh appetizers, exquisite champagnes, wines, top shelf spirits and liqueurs. Telephone:  07 4948 0599  Web:  Shuckz Oyster and Champagne Bar.

Walter’s Lounge

Their warm and friendly atmosphere can be found just a short 5 minute stroll from the south east end of the main street.  Outstanding cocktails and a hand picked boutique wine list can all be enjoyed while overlooking the beautiful Port of Airlie Marina.  Indoor and outdoor seating is available from which you are invited to explore their unique daily cocktail list and food specials. If the decisions are all too much, then go for their tasting menu or just ask the team to look after you! Telephone:  07 4948 2537  Web:  Walter’s Lounge.

Fish D’Vine Rum Bar

The best place to enjoy a cocktail is at Fish D’Vine’s Rum Bar.  You can’t miss the Rum wall as you order your Hemingway Daiquiri, Mojito, or any other cocktail which may tickle your taste buds.  Not to mention the friendly staff who are pros at putting together the tasty treats. Telephone:  07 4948 0088  Web:   Fish D’vine Rum Bar.

Sorrento Restaurant & Bar

If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning Whitsunday views, Sorrento is the place to be.  Located at Abell Point Marina, Sorrento offers a range of tasty cocktails as well as a full lunch and dinner menu seven days a week. Telephone:  07 4946 7454  Web:   Sorrento Restaurant & Bar.

Best Whitsunday Islands Hotels


32 Comments

  1. Amy

    An absolute paradise that I have added to my bucket list! I didn’t realize that the Great Barrier Reef is here, and that looks absolutely amazing to see. I’m not a diver so the glass bottom boat is my go-to…! I love the idea of going to the Airlie Beach Lagoon – it sounds like a lovely place to enjoy and relax. Never heard of the Whitsunday Islands before, and thanks for this info! Thinking of changing my vacation plans now!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I am glad I could show you a wonderful part of Australia that probably, quite a few have not heard of. If you are interested in the Great Barrier Reef, then Whitsunday Islands, Australia is where you want to go. Please let me know if you have any questions.

      Reply
  2. Mick Krug

    Whitsunday Islands in Australia looks like a great beach destination. Close to the Great Barrier Reef which everyone should see at least once. Whitehaven Beach is beautiful, great video. Lots to see and do around the island.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Yes, you are right Mick. It is one of those places everyone needs to visit. And then two must sees: the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach. Wonderful beach destination. Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations.

      Reply
  3. Yuji

    Thank you very much for this guide! I am now very interested in visiting the Whitsunday Islands this coming summer for my vacation. It looks so beautiful with so much to offer. On the restaurants you have listed, which do you recommend the most?

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Hi Yuji! When you head there for your vacation, make sure you go to Fish D’vine. That is my #1 choice. I am hoping that you like seafood? If so, this is the place you must make time for 🙂 Thanks for visiting the Whitsunday Islands Australia.

      Reply
  4. Dwyan Anthony Alford

    One of the best reviews I have since on travel destinations! Congratulations. What a great resource for the traveller to Whitsunday Islands. No need to go anywhere else for the information. Ha ha. Great. I love the way you laid everything out. Very clear to see what you are getting or where you might go. Abel Point Marina looks really nice and interesting layout there!!! wow. The ocean looks beautiful. Also lots of convenient ways of getting around as well. You covered everything for the entire family, with good detail, that’s the strength of this post. Thanks again!!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I am glad you enjoyed reading about the Whitsunday Islands Australia Dwyan! It is a wonderful beach destination for the whole family to enjoy for sure.

      Reply
  5. Evan Cruz

    Very nice post Leahrae; we are working on getting there. I’ll keep this destination in mind for sure. Thanks.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Great Evan, please let me know if I can answer any questions for you.

      Reply
  6. Shalisha Alston

    Hi there. I can’t believe there’s a resort for type person’s interest. I’m a foodie. So if I went, I would go on the food and wine-based focused resort. I don’t like traveling, because I don’t like flying, but I love going to places and visiting their restaurants and bars. If I do decide to go, I’d go with Whitsunday Apartments with a group of friends. I love modernity. And spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and huge bedrooms with a beautiful view are what I like when I need to book a place to stay.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I have to agree with you Shalisha! I thinkg the Whitsunday Apartments are the way to go. I love to eat out, I’m a foodie too. But sometimes it is nice to just have a meal in. Thanks for visiting the Whitsunday Islands Australia.

      Reply
  7. Ash

    OMG there is literally so many different places to choose from!! This article would be perfect for someone who is planning a honeymoon or romantic getaway. So informative! lol Everywhere looks so lovely and relaxing!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Yes, lots to see and do in the Whitsunday Islands! Thanks for stopping by Ash.

      Reply
  8. Robert M Doyle

    Another incredible post. Australia–another place I have yet to visit. I almost had an opportunity to, but it fell through. Going in June and July would be perfect since their seasons are the opposite of us. Let’s go Kayaking!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Yes, kayaking here is a dream Robert! Wow, well you have to get another opportunity to visit. Wonderful place. Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  9. Spencer Smith

    Wow what a paradise! You cover everything from restaurant prices to fun activities and beautiful amenity pictures! Those waters are so clear and just breathtaking! You have it easily layer out so anybody could get all the information they need to take a trip to paradise!

    My husband and I have been looking into vacations to take because we never got a honeymoon so this will definitely be on my list to venture!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      This is one of those places that is great for a honeymoon! You will have a wonderful time either just relaxing or out enjoying the area. Thanks for visiting the Whitsunday Islands Australia.

      Reply
  10. Eric

    What is a Whitsunday island? Are they on top of the reef or just regular islands with a funny name? Other than that, I absolutely know I will venture there at some point because the Aussies make it sound so much fun. Except for the poisonous things that dwell in that area.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      There are 74 islands that comprise the Whitsunday Islands, and they are just beautiful islands of the coast of Australia with the Great Barrier Reef surrounding them. Yes, fun and beautiful place!

      Reply
  11. Rick

    Leahrae,

    Excellent, informative article. You covered all the bases. I almost feel like I visited. I’ll be looking at your other articles as well.

    Best Regards,

    Rick

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thank you so much Rick for stopping by and taking the time to leave me comments. I am glad you enjoyed reading and visiting Beach Travel Destinations.

      Reply
  12. David

    What a beautiful setting as I was reading the article all I could Imagine is me out in that beautiful blue water. It almost makes you want to move there. This article leaves nothing out of the many adventures you could have. Thank you so much.

    David

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thanks David for visit Beach Travel Destinations. I am glad you enjoyed reading about the Whitsunday Islands Australia.

      Reply
  13. Daniella

    What a great article, I love it!

    The Whitsunday is so beautiful that we have decided, the whole family, to charter a boat there. I was looking for information on activities do to and marinas to stay. And here I am, on your website, happy than ever because all the things I was looking for are right here:) I don’t need to search anymore, you have saved me plenty of time, and I thank you for it!
    Just a question if you don’t mind. It may sound stupid, but I am a kind of paranoid person when it comes to snorkeling. I always have this impression there is a shark behind me:) So I would like to know if there are sharks in the Whitsundays?

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      That is a great question Daniella! There are several species of shark that you may encounter in the Whitsundays, most being non-agressive and great to see while snorkeling. Sharks that frequent the reefs are not a danger to divers, and are often more afraid of you than you are of them. So no worries while snorkeling in the Whitsundays! Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  14. Alexis Enriquez

    This is awesome! I want to hop on a plane right now and go. It reminds me so much of my home in Belize. Super Beautiful.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You do live in a beautiful part of the world! How awesome to live in Belize. Thank you for stopping by and visiting Whitsunday Islands Australia.

      Reply
  15. Vicki Crawford

    So gorgeous here – I love it and I am definitely going to travel across the ditch to visit these wonderful places.
    Thank you for giving me the chance to read all about Whitsunday islands and all you can do- so cool

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thank you for stopping by Whitsunday Islands Australia. Glad you enjoyed reading 🙂

      Reply
  16. Helen

    Really great review and such a beautiful part of the world to visit. I’m an Aussie so I’m probably a bit biased lol. But I really love Port Douglas, it’s on the top of my list of places to go in far North Qld. There’s some awesome cruises to that part of the world too.
    You’ve covered everything really well 🙂

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thank you so much Helen. You are so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world! Thanks for stopping by and visiting Whitsunday Islands Australia.

      Reply

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