whitsundays tourist attractions

Must-see attractions in The Whitsundays

Whitehaven Beach

The Whitsundays

One of of Australia's most photogenic and hyped beaches, Whitehaven is a pristine 4.3 mile-long (7km) stretch of blinding sand (at 98% pure silica, some…

Whitsunday Island

The largest of the paradisaical group to which it gives its name, Whitsunday Island is ruggedly forested, and surrounded by clear teal waters and coral…

Conway National Park

Airlie Beach

This serene national park encompasses the Conway Peninsula, once the hunting grounds of the Giru Dala and still home to large swaths of lowland tropical…

Hook Island

The 53-sq-km Hook Island, the second-largest island in the Whitsunday group, is predominantly national-park territory, its highest point being Hook Peak …

Lindeman Island

The best known of the 13 coral-fringed specks in the Lindeman Islands National Park, this island is traditionally owned by the Ngaro, an Aboriginal…

South Molle Island

The largest of the Molle Islands group, South Molle is virtually joined to its reef-fringed siblings, Mid and North Molle Islands. The island is mostly…

Armit Island

Little-visited Armit, in the northern Whitsundays, boasts fringing reef, secluded anchorage, nesting birds from October to March, and a peaceful, facility…

Hayman Island

The most northerly of the Whitsunday group, little Hayman is just 4 sq km in area and rises to 250m above sea level. It has forested hills, valleys and…

Escape Beach

This sheltered, sandy cove, lapped at by azure waters, is Hamilton Island's loveliest beach - all the more because you're likely to have it all to…

Butterfly Bay

On the northern side of Hook Island is this protected bay, which flutters with butterfly song each winter. Popular with discerning bareboat-charter-goers,…

Daydream Island

The rainforest-cloaked, reef-fringed Daydream Island is only 1km long and 200m wide, and very popular with day visitors due to its accessibility. Much of…

Gloucester Island

Part of the northern Whitsundays, tree-swaddled Gloucester is so close to the Queensland mainland at Hideaway Bay that Captain Cook declared it 'Cape…

Cedar Creek Falls

These beautiful falls, a popular swimming spot when there's sufficient water, can be reached by turning east from the Proserpine–Airlie Beach road at…

Saddleback Island

Little Saddleback, in the northern Whitsundays, sits just north of George Point (on the mainland). The basic, sandy campsite on its western side is…

Hamilton Island Wildlife

Hamilton Island

This sweet little wildlife centre is a good place to introduce your kids to various marsupials, including wallabies and koalas, as well as a dingo,…

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• TRAVEL TIPS

Whitsundays , Australia , Queensland

25 best things to do in the whitsundays.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Located on the east coast in Queensland, the Whitsunday islands are a little piece of heaven. There are so many things to do in the Whitsundays!

Crystal blue waters, white-sand beaches, coral reefs… they have it all!

Over a third of the tourists visiting Australia go to the Whitsundays. This gives you an idea of how popular these islands are.

Popular yes and rightfully. The Whitsundays are stunning and should be on everyone’s bucket list!

In this article, you will discover the most beautiful places and activities in the Whitsundays !

🔎 Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in the Whitsunday Islands

This is a very complete travel guide and you will find some practical information further down but let’s start with the good part and discover exactly what to do in the Whitsundays.

Visiting Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet

Whitehaven Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Australia. It’s very often displayed on postcards and for good reason: it’s stunning!

There is just no place that can beat it!

It’s 7km long so you will get plenty of space to go for a walk and swim.

But that’s not all! The best spot to see Whitehaven Beach is not the beach itself, it’s Hill Inlet.

To get there, you will go on a bushwalk up to the Hill Inlet lookout. From there, you will be able to admire the STUNNING views over Whitehaven swirly sand and water. It looks like a painting, almost unreal!

HOW TO GET THERE: The best ways to get to Whitehaven Beach are by boat or helicopter. No ferry goes to this island however you will find many tours from Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island.

I highly recommend the 2-day Summertime cruise . I absolutely loved that cruise. Prices & info.

If you are short in time, you can also opt for a day trip to Whitehaven beach. Prices & info.

Finally, you can also opt for a scenic flight from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island. Not only will you get to see Whitehaven but you’ll also discover the Heart Reef !

Discovering Hamilton Island

Hamilton Island is known for its amazing resorts and beautiful beaches. It’s the perfect destination for honeymooners and families!

If you’d like to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday, it’s the perfect place for you!

You can go to the spa, golfing, working on your tan on Catseye Beach… and plenty more!

Hamilton Island is also a great place to go hiking in the Whitsundays.

FUN FACT: There are no cars on Hamilton Island. You will get around the island with a buggy! It’s super fun.

While a lot of people choose to stay on Hamilton Island, in one of the beautiful resorts such as Reef View , you can also go there on a day trip from Airlie Beach.

Simply book the island hopper ticket and take the ferry there.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day cruise that includes both Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island.

Seeing the Heart Reef

This is one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks! Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays (yep! The pun was intended), the Heart Reef is a beautiful heart-shaped coral reef.

Unlike what you may think, it’s actually not that big. It’s 17 meters wide.

The best way to see the Heart Reef is to go on a scenic flight .

I particularly recommend the scenic flight from Airlie Beach. It lasts 1 hour. You will be taking off from Proserpine airport and fly above Whitehaven, Hill Inlet, the Great Barrier Reef and of course, the Heart Reef.

The best thing about it is that the pilot will also be your guide. S/he will tell you where to look so you can see the Heart Reef and get beautiful photos.

If you want to know more about this, check out my full review of the scenic flight .

You can also find more information and prices here.

If you are staying on Hamilton Island, you can also go on a scenic flight from there. Click here to see the latest prices.

Finally, if you really want to experience the heart reef. You can also book a trip to the heart island . You will first be going on a helicopter flight before landing on the heart island. This pontoon, located by the reef, is perfect to enjoy some relaxing time in one of the most beautiful places in Australia .

Going on a sailing cruise in the Whitsundays

It would be impossible to explore the Whitsundays without going on a cruise. Not only is this the best way to get to some famous places (like Whitehaven) but sometimes it’s also pretty much the only way.

Ferries only go to Hamilton Island, Daydream Island and Airlie Beach. If you wish to visit more , you will need to jump on a boat.

There are many cruises departing from Airlie Beach every day.

If you can, book the summertime cruise . It’s a 2-day cruise during which you will:

• Walk up to Hill Inlet
• Swim at Whitehaven Beach
• Kayak in the sea
• Go snorkelling
• And plenty more!

If you want to know more, make sure to check out my full review of the Summertime sailing trip. You can also find prices here.

If you don’t want to spend 2 days on a sailing boat, you can also opt for a day trip in the Whitsundays . The Ocean Rafting cruise is particularly popular. Prices here.

Chartering a yacht in the Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a paradise for sailors. More importantly, sailing is accessible to everyone here.

The Whitsundays are one of the only places in the world where you can go bareboating (without a license).

If you’ve always dreamt of having a yacht for a few days, that’s your time to shine!

There are a couple of options to charter a boat in the Whitsundays .

The first one is bareboating. You can directly rent a boat and go explore the islands. The staff will train you before you leave. You don’t need a license for that but previous boat experience is always a good thing.

Alternatively, you can rent a yacht with a skipper and crew. This is a way better option if you don’t know anything about boating but still want to enjoy a private sailing holiday.

When you rent a crewed boat in the Whitsundays, the crew will work directly with you to come up with your dream itinerary. They will give you loads of suggestions but you are free to make it your own.

Unlike with group tours, renting a boat has the advantage of being more private and the itinerary is bespoke.

You can rent a boat for up to 10 people.

Now let’s talk about prices. You can rent a boat from Hamilton Island . This can get pretty expensive but the services are amazing.

You can also rent this crewed yacht from Airlie Beach. It will, of course, cost a bit more than a tour however, if you are a big group, it gets pretty interesting in terms of budget.

Click here to see the latest prices.

Hiking in the Whitsundays

The Whitsunday Islands National Park is home to a lot of great hikes! If you want to discover off-the-beaten-path places in the archipelago, it’s a great way to do so.

Here are some popular walks in the Whitsundays:

• Whitsunday Cairn on Whitsunday Island (4km)
• Whitsunday Peak on Whitsunday Island (5km)
• Passage Peak on Hamilton Island (5.5km)
• Bauer Bay on South Molle Island
• Honeyeater Lookout in Airlie Beach (8km)
• Hill Inlet Lookout on Whitsunday Island

No matter what, make sure you are wearing good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen .

Staying in Australia’s first underwater hotel, Reefsuites

The Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays are home to Australia’s first underwater hotel. It’s called Reefsuites and is located in the heart of the reef.

Not only is it the best location you can ever think of in terms of accommodation but it’s also an unforgettable experience.

You can easily book a 2-day trip to Reefsuites which includes transportation from Airlie Beach to the Hardy Reef, drinks, breakfast, dinner, 2 lunches, snorkelling and of course, an incredible night underwater.

This is an experience of a lifetime and an excellent thing to do for couples. It’s pretty much as romantic as it gets!

Click here to see the prices.

Snorkelling in the Whitsundays

The Whitsunday islands are ideally located by the Great Barrier Reef which makes them the perfect places to go snorkelling.

There are a lot of snorkelling spots in the Whitsundays. Some of them are pretty famous and therefore popular. Loads of tours go there and they can get a bit overcrowded.

But there are also a lot of secret snorkelling spots!

Depending on your budget and tastes, you can opt for either option.

The best places to go snorkelling in the Whitsundays are Hook Island, Border Island and Hayman Island.

If you are staying on Hamilton Island or Daydream island, you will also find a few snorkelling spots there.

Finally, there is the ultimate snorkelling spot: the hardy reef! This means you will be snorkelling in open waters though.

If you don’t feel comfortable with this, make sure to opt for one of the islands where you can snorkel off the beach.

HOW TO GO SNORKELLING IN THE WHITSUNDAYS: Again, if you are staying on one of the islands, you can go snorkelling directly from the beach. Make sure to either bring your own equipment or rent some beforehand.

The other option is to go on a tour. Snorkelling is often included in most sailing trips.

Here are some recommendations:

• 1-day cruise from Airlie Beach with Ocean Rafting. It includes an hour at Border Island, Dumbell Island or one of the secret snorkel spots. Prices here.
• Snorkelling day tour from Hamilton Island. It includes several spots around Bait Reef. Click here to see the price.
• 2-day sailing cruise from Airlie Beach with snorkelling near Hook Island. Click here to see the latest prices.

Scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the holy grail for scuba divers. If you have your PADI, I’m sure you are already obsessed with the idea of going diving at the GBR.

And so you should! It’s absolutely amazing!

It’s actually so beautiful that you are kind of spoilt for life after that! Nothing can beat it!

If you don’t have your PADI, you can still opt for an introductory dive.

HOW TO GO DIVING AT THE REEF: There are a lot of diving centres in Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island.

If you are looking for a bespoke itinerary, you can just drop by once you’re there and ask them what they can do. They will work with you to plan the trip of your dream.

If you are short in time and just want to go for 1 or 2 dive (or don’t have your license and want an induction dive), you can also opt for a diving cruise to the Outer Reef. Prices here.

Enjoying a luxury holiday in a resort

The Whitsunday Islands are home to some of the best resorts in Australia. Whether you want to enjoy a full week in one of these beautiful resorts or just treat yourself for a day or two, that’s possible!

The best resorts in the Whitsundays are located on Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Hayman Island and Long Island.

They all have direct access to the beach and offer wellness services. Massages, treatments… everything you need! If you want to be pampered, that’s the best place to do so.

They also feature amazing pools with views over the islands.

Click here to check the current deals and packages.

Going on a scenic flight in the Whitsundays

The best thing about the Whitsundays is that there is more than one way to explore them. Sailing is must-do of course but if you can, going on a scenic flight is well worth your time (and money).

The Whitsundays are a pretty big archipelago. There are loads of islands! 74 to be exact. And, the Great Barrier Reef is also very big.

The only way to truly understand how beautiful the Whitsundays and GBR are is by seeing them from the sky.

The landscapes are jaw-dropping and you get to see so much, so differently! It’s a very unique experience.

There are loads of scenic flights in the area.

If you are staying in Airlie beach, you can book this scenic flight . You will get to see Airlie, Daydream Island, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, the Heart Reef and the Outer Reef.

Skydiving in Airlie Beach

Any thrill-seekers here? If you are a bit of an adrenaline junky or just want to try skydiving, there is no better place than Airlie Beach.

There are a lot of places where you can go skydiving in Australia . Some of them, like Mission Beach, are pretty famous too!

However, nothing can really beat the Whitsundays. It’s a magical place!

There is a skydiving centre in Airlie Beach where you can experience the thrill of a tandem skydive.

If you are interested in what it is like to skydive for the first time in Airlie Beach, check out this article .

I’m terrified of flying and heights. Yet, this is one of the best things I’ve done in my life.

You start at Proserpine airport and go on a 20-min flight before jumping. Once you jump, there is 30 minutes of freefall before the parachute opens.

The landscapes are so incredibly stunning that you completely forget what you are actually doing. It’s like being struck by pure beauty.

Once you are gliding, you will get to enjoy the views for quite a while and even stir the parachute if you want to.

It’s such an incredible experience and I can’t recommend it enough.

Visiting Chalkies Beach

If you are looking for unusual things to do in the Whitsundays, you may want to visit Haslewood Island. Located next to Whitsunday Island, Haslewood is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Whitsundays: Chalkies Beach.

Chalkies is one of the rare beaches that has the same sand as Whitehaven. It’s made of silica which means it’s just as white and soft!

But because it’s so close to Whitehaven and not many tours go there, it’s still considered a bit of a hidden gems in the Whitsundays.

If you love taking beautiful photos, snorkelling and want to stay away from the crowds, a visit to Chalkies and Haslewood Island in general will be an excellent option!

HOW TO GET THERE:  If you choose to charter a yacht , just make sure to ask your captain to add it to the itinerary. Otherwise, you can opt for a day tour from Hamilton Island that includes both Whitehaven and Chalkies Beach.

Relaxing on Catseye Beach

Catseye Beach is the most famous beach on Hamilton Island. It’s ideally located near the resorts ( Beach Club and Reef View ) which makes it a pretty popular spot.

The sand is soft and white, making it the perfect place to relax and work on your tan!

When the tide is high, you can also go snorkelling. If you are lucky, you will see some turtles!

It’s also a good place to visit with low-tide. You can go walk on the rocks and look for crabs!

Visiting Daydream Island

Daydream Island is a small inhabited island located between Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island.

It’s quite secluded which is why it’s a great place to either stay or go on a day trip .

Amongst the best things to do on Daydream island, there are: – Seeing and feeding the stingrays – Hiking – Relaxing by the pool of Daydream Island Resort – Watching the sunset at Lovers Cove

You can easily get to Daydream island by ferry or on a day tour from Airlie Beac h or Hamilton Island.

Going on a jet ski tour

Another way you can go around the islands is by booking a jet ski tour!

This is a pretty cool thing to do. It lasts 2 hours during which your guide will take you to some of the most beautiful places in the Whitsundays.

Not only will you discover stunning gems, but it’s also really good fun.

Click here to see all Jetski Tours in the Whitsundays.

There are different places you can explore with a jet ski:

– Daydream and South Molle Islands. Prices here. 

– Airlie Beach surroundings. Prices here.

– Long Island. Prices here.

Visiting South Molle Island

South Molle Island used to be a popular destination back in the days. It was home to one of the most stunning resorts in the Whitsundays.

Unfortunately, this resort was destroyed by a cyclone a few years ago. Nowadays, South Molle Island doesn’t host guests anymore but it’s still a good place to explore.

It’s mainly known for its hikes and beaches. Bauer Bay is particularly stunning.

If you like spooky things, you can also visit the abandoned resort.

You can easily get there from Daydream island, with a private boat or a taxi boat.

Chill out at Airlie Beach Lagoon

If you are staying in Airlie Beach, make sure to head to the lagoon. It’s located on Shute Harbour Road and is the perfect place for families or visitors wanting to swim and relax in Airlie.

The views are beautiful and it’s ideally situated near the beach. You can quickly go on a walk if you want to and come back to sunbathe.

The advantage of going to Airlie Lagoon is that you don’t need to wear a wetsuit. A normal bikini is enough.

At the end of the day, that’s a pool! This means there is no danger.

You will also find a lot of facilities there including toilets and lifeguards.

Eating delicious seafood in one of the Whitsundays restaurants

If you love seafood, you are in for a treat! There is no better place than a coastal town or an island to taste delicious fish. The Whitsundays are no exception!

Due to their proximity to the sea, restaurants in the Whitsundays get supplied with delicious products.

Because the Whitsundays are also a world-class destination, there are loads of amazing restaurants.

If you are staying in Airlie Beach, make sure to go to Shuckz Oyster & Champagne Bar or the Whitsundays Sailing Club.

On Hamilton Island, book a table at Long Pavilion or at the restaurant of the Beach Club. Make sure to book in advance for this last one though. They give priority to their guests so if you are not staying at the Beach Club, you will need to book early.

Going on a glass-bottom boat tour

The Whitsunday islands are all about water activities however, everything doesn’t like being in the water (or know how to swim).

If this is your case but you still want to enjoy the beauty of the environment, you can opt for a glass-bottom boat tour.

It’s ideal to make the best of both worlds. You will be going on a 70-min cruise to the reef. Not only will you soak up the views of the islands but you will also get to see the marine wildlife!

No need to get wet, you will be able to see the corals, turtles and other marine life from the boat!

Click here to see more information and prices.

Watching the sunset in the Whitsundays

Australia is famous for its beautiful sunsets but I must say something, the Whitsundays set the standard!

Watching the sunset in the Whitsundays is an amazing experience. The colours are incredibly bright and warm. The orange, red, pink… so beautiful!

More importantly, you can look at the horizon and see the islands, the sea, the sailing boats and dolphins!

Catching a glimpse of dolphins jumping in this stunning place is just a magical experience.

You can see the sunset from most beaches on the islands; however, the best place to see it is from a boat.

Again, if you opted for the summertime cruise , you will get to see that (and the sunrise too!). If you don’t want to book a multi-day cruise, you can also opt for a sunset cruise.

The crew will bring you to one of the best sunset spots in the Whitsundays. You will get drinks and snacks and bring back wonderful photos.

Enjoying a retreat on Long Island

Long Island is a pretty secluded island where you can truly enjoy a retreat. If you dream of massages, treatments, swimming in the pool while looking at the islands… Long Island is for you!

Most people going to Long Island choose to stay in one of the retreat resorts: Elysian Retreat or Palm Bay resort .

Alternatively, you can also go there by yourself and explore.

Partying in the Whitsundays

Want to experience the nightlife while visiting the Whitsundays? Good! Because you are in for a treat!

There are several places where you can go partying in the Whitsundays.

Airlie Beach is a popular place, especially for backpackers . There are loads of bars, clubs and restaurants. In the evening, make sure to hit the main street and you will find plenty!

The islands are also a good place to party as some of the resorts have nightclubs and organise things in the evening.

Finally, the ultimate way to party in the Whitsundays is to go on a party boat. You will get to explore the islands and the famous sites and enjoy some crazy nights on the boat. Music, drinks, games… everything is there.

The Tongarra is known as the ultimate party boat in the Whitsundays. It’s a 3-day, 2 nights cruise. Click here to see the latest prices.

Exploring Hook Island

Located in the northern part of the archipelago, Hook Island offers very well preserved landscapes.

It’s particularly known for its snorkelling and diving spots. Luncheon Bay, Butterfly Bay and Manta Ray Bay are particularly popular.

If you choose to go on the summertime cruise, you will go there.

Learning about the native-Australian culture and seeing rock art at Nara Inlet

There are a lot of stories and traditions in the Whitsundays. The Great Barrier Reef is very important for the aboriginal culture.

If you want to know more about this, check out these fun facts about the GBR .

If you wish to learn more about this, you can go on a tour with a Ngaro Indigenous guide . S/he will tell you everything you need to know about the legends, stories and how they live in the Whitsundays. This tour is part of the ROC (Respecting Our Culture) program which reinforce the indigenous cultural heritage in Australia.

Another site that you should check out is Nara Inlet. You can access it by going on the Ngaro Cultural Site Track . It’s only 340m return and takes about 20 minutes. You will discover a fantastic 9,000 years old rock art site.

Going to Shute Harbour

Shute Harbour is a beautiful natural harbour located 10 km away from Airlie Beach.

It’s ideally located on the edge of the Conway National Park, in the middle of rainforest mountains! A true little piece of paradise.

If you are into hiking, you will love Shute Harbour. There are a few scenic walks that will bring you to lookouts with breath-taking views over the islands. Coral Point, Mount Rooper Circuit and Swamp Bay track are particularly good.

Please note, Shute Harbour area was particularly touched by cyclone Debbie back in 2017 and the damages are still very visible. The local authorities are working very hard to rebuild everything but I have to mention this to avoid any disappointments.

Going on a Segway tour in Airlie Beach

If you are into history, going on a segway tour is a very fun thing to do in Airlie Beach.

The guide will take around the town and along the Whitsunday Bicentennial Boardwalk. S/he will tell you heaps about the history of Airlie Beach, the Whitsundays and Australia!

You will also go to amazing photo spots. The local guides know the area better than anyone and they know exactly where to go to take great shots!

Here are some of the sights you will discover: Abell Point Marina, Shingley Beach and the Whitsunday Botanic Gardens.

You will then stop at Sorrento’s for dinner. This is one of the best restaurants in Airlie Beach. They serve Australian food and the views from the deck are beautiful!

Finally, you will head to Cannonvale to watch the sunset.

It’s a very complete tour and so much fun!

Exploring the Whitsundays Hinterland

This may surprise you but the Whitsunday Coast doesn’t only include the islands. The Whitsundays Hinterland is also a beautiful place to visit.

It’s often overlooked by visitors but it’s a great place to find beautiful hidden gems!

It takes about 30 minutes from Airlie Beach to get there.

The most beautiful sites in the hinterland are:

• Airlie Creek Trail
• Cedar Creek Falls
• Honeyeater Lookout Trail
• Conway National Park
• Whitsundays Great Walk
• Fair Tree Walk

You can easily get there by car.

If you don’t have a vehicle, you can also opt for a day tour from Airlie Beach. Prices here.

• How to get to the Whitsundays

Getting to the Whitsunday s is fairly easy. There are two airports. One is in Airlie Beach, the other one on Hamilton Island.

From Proserpine Airport, you can book a transfer to Airlie and the islands or rent a car.

From Hamilton Island airport, you can take a shuttle to your hotel.

Best Whitsunday Islands tours

Although a lot of Whitsundays tours were mentioned before, here is a summary of the best ones!

• Summertime 2-day Sailing cruise in the Whitsundays: you will spend 2 days in the Whitsundays, visit Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, go snorkelling and kayaking. It’s absolutely amazing! You can check out my full review here and see prices here .
• Scenic flight from Airlie Beach: this is the only way to see the heart reef! You will also love the views of the islands, Whitehaven and the Outer Reef. Check out my full review here or check directly the prices here .
• Airlie Beach Skydive : this is an experience of a lifetime and if you are a thrill-seeker, you are going to love it! Full review here and prices here.

Accommodation in the Whitsundays

When it comes to places to stay in the Whitsundays , you will be spoilt for choice!

The area is known for its world-class resorts but even if you are on a budget, you will find many options!

If you are interested in booking an Airbnb, check out these:

• 18 Best Airbnbs in Airlie Beach
• 12 Best Airbnbs on Hamilton Island for an unforgettable holiday in the Whitsundays

Budget and mid-range travellers:

If you are backpacking or on a budget, it’s better to stay in Airlie Beach. Everything is way cheaper there! This includes both accommodation and tours.

– Airlie Beach Magnums is the best hostel in town. Prices are very reasonable and it’s super clean!

– Airlie Beach hotel is very good value. If you don’t want to stay in a backpacker but still don’t want to stretch your budget too much, they have great budget-friendly rooms. They also have more fancy rooms so it will suit most people.

Luxury travellers:

If you want to experience the proper resort holiday in the Whitsundays, then you must stay on one of the islands!

Here are some of the best resorts:

• Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Island: an all-time favourite! It’s located by Catseye beach. See prices here.
• Beach Club on Hamilton Island: this is an adult-only resort. If you are travelling with kids, it won’t be suitable but if you are a couple and want to stay away from children, this will be your paradise. See prices here.
• InterContinental Hayman Island Resort is more secluded and the perfect couple getaway. See prices here.
• Daydream Island Resort is a stunning resort, away from the crowds. See prices here.

Travelling with a dog?

Dogs are not allowed on the islands so you will have to stay on the mainland. You can find the full list of pet-friendly accommodation in Airlie Beach here.

Please note that you should be opting for day trips instead of overnight cruises as dogs are not allowed on boats either.

Best time to visit the Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a great place to visit all year round. A lot of people choose to visit at Christmas time and during the summer holidays. However, this is also the wet season and you could be finding yourself on a very rainy holiday.

Winter is a pretty good time of the year to visit. It’s dry and the temperature is around 20 degrees which is very pleasant. It never really gets cold there so you shouldn’t worry about that.

As a general thing, September is known as the best time to visit the Whitsundays. It’s warmer and dry, basically the ideal weather to explore the islands!

Whitsundays Packing List

You will be spending a lot of time on the beach and in the water so make sure to pack:

• Dresses or shorts
• Light trousers
• A jumper (just in case)
• A jacket for the evening (rain jacket if you are visiting in summer)
• Camera and photography equipment
• Sunscreen ( eco-friendly preferably)
• Beach towels
• Snorkelling equipment (most tours will provide it but it’s worth bringing your own)

We hope this will help you plan your trip and figure out exactly what to do in the Whitsundays. No matter what you do, you will love it. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the world!

You may also be interested in: 

• Best resorts in the Whitsundays
• How to get to Whitehaven Beach
• Things to do in Airlie Beach
• How to get to Daydream Island
• Where to stay in the Whitsundays
• Best Whitsundays day trips
• Summertime Whitsundays Review
• Airlie Beach Scenic Flight Review
• Airlie Beach Skydive Review
• Things to do in Daydream Island
• Things to do in Hamilton Island

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

9 fun things to do in the Whitsundays

From whizzing around remote islands on a sailing boat to snorkelling colourful coral reefs, here are some of our favourite activities to do in the Whitsundays .

The Whitsundays is an archipelago of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland . As well as being one of the most popular launching pads for exploring the Great Barrier Reef , the islands also boast some of Australia ‘s most stunning beaches, tropical rainforests, and plenty of land and water-based adventures.

Here are nine sun-filled ways to explore the Whitsundays .

1. Go sailing

Pack your bathers, slather on the sunscreen and get ready to experience life on the water. Sailing is a great way to explore the Whitsundays’ many palm-fringed islands, drop anchor at hidden coves away from the crowds, and discover the best snorkelling spots. After a jam-packed day of exploring, sit on the deck with a cool drink where you’ll have front-row seats to a Queensland sunset. If you’ve ever fancied trying your hand at sailing, you could muck in and help the crew hoist the sails and steer the boat.

2. Visit world-class beaches 

The Whitsunday is packed with gorgeous beaches… the kind you’d imagine if a meditation teacher asked you to picture yourself in a tropical paradise. Whitehaven Beach is one of its most famous, and regularly tops the ‘World’s Best Beaches’ lists. Other favourites include Betty’s Beach, Chalkie’s Bay, Blue Pearl Bay and Catseye Beach. 

3. Go camping 

You’ll find many luxurious resorts in the Whitsundays, but if you’re more of an outdoorsy type, camping is the way to go. Wave the day-trippers goodbye as they sail off into the sunset and allow you to enjoy the scenery in solitude. Nothing beats falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, or starting your day with a refreshing sea swim.

4. Experience a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony

The traditional owners of the Whitsundays and the surrounding coastal fringe are the Ngaro People, also known as the Canoe People. They have a deep and continuing connection to the land and waters with tens of thousands of years of history and culture. Experience a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony and a short talk about the history of the Whitsundays with a local Ngaro guide. The Nara Inlet on Hook Island is one of the oldest Aboriginal sites on the East Coast .

Related: Enrich your Queensland holiday with these First Nations experiences  

5. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. It has been around for about 20 million years and is so large that it can be seen from space. Discover this epic reef on a snorkelling day tour from Airlie Beach. Look out for the ‘Great Eight’: turtles, giant clams, clownfish, manta rays, whales, Maori wrasse, sharks and potato cod. 

6. Go whale watching 

If you visit the Whitsundays during the Aussie winter (June to October), you might see majestic whales along the coast. Every year, humpbacks migrate from Antarctica to birth and nurse their calves in the warm waters along the East Coast. Humpbacks are inquisitive and playful, so you may be lucky to see them breaching and slapping their tales on the water.

7. Explore bushwalking trails

As well as pristine beaches, the Whitsundays are home to dense rainforests filled with lush native flora. The 11.5km Ngaro Sea Trail is one of the region’s best hikes. Covering diverse terrain — from grasslands to rainforest and beaches — and providing insight into Ngaro history and culture, you’ll gain an understanding of what makes this region so special. Look out for the Aboriginal cave paintings near Nara Inlet. 

8. Swim in Cedar Creek Falls 

Cedar Creek Falls is a stunning waterhole nestled in the coastal hinterland between Airlie Beach and Proserpine. You could easily spend a whole day here so bring a picnic, cool drinks and a good book to read in between swims. If you get bored of lounging around by a tropical waterfall ( oh, what a hard life it is ), you could explore the trail that goes up to and around the falls.

9. Relax and recharge

The Whitsundays tick all the boxes if you’re in need of some R&R. If you’re feeling lavish, why not treat yourself to a stay in one of the resorts on Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Whitsunday Island and Daydream Island. Spend your days sipping cocktails on a sun lounger, eating fresh seafood and soaking up the tropical vibes. Bliss.

Keen for a tropical adventure? Check out Intrepd’s range of Whitsunday tours .

Feeling inspired?

Cliona Elliott

Originally from Jersey (the tiny island in the English Channel), Cliona now lives in Melbourne, Australia. When she's not writing about all things travel for Intrepid, you'll find her chasing flavours, getting lost in local markets or waking up at a ridiculous time to watch the sunrise from the top of a mountain.

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Whitsundays, Queensland

Guide to the Whitsundays

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• Getting to the Whitsundays
• When to visit

Sailing through blue waters, snorkelling above gardens of coral and coastal views more beautiful than a postcard – it’s all waiting for you in the Whitsundays.

A cluster of islands located 55km (34mi) off the Queensland coast, the Whitsundays offer everything you’d expect from a tropical paradise; turquoise waters that meet swirling white sands, beautiful secluded beaches and world-class luxury accommodation. It’s certainly relaxing, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find incredible adventure experiences. The proximity to the Great Barrier Reef means the Whitsundays are a mecca for sailing, diving and snorkelling, and there are plenty of opportunities to tick off some bucket-list worthy activities like swimming with turtles or flying over famous Heart Reef.

You can get to the Whitsundays via two airports; Hamilton Island Airport (HTI) is located on Hamilton Island and Whitsundays Coast Airport (PPP) is located about 25 minutes from Airlie Beach on the mainland. 

• Whitsundays Coast Airport (PPP) services direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast
• Hamilton Island Airport (HTI) services direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, so it’s easy to connect your international flight with a flight to one of the Whitsunday airports
• Car hire is available at Whitsundays Coast Airport

On the mainland, hire car is the easiest way to get around, but there are a few options for moving between the mainland and islands, and between the different islands. Take a transfer, go bareboating (skippering your own boat) or join a range of single-day and multi-day cruises.

The Whitsundays boasts mild temperatures and about 300 days of sun each year. 

Spring is when the Whitsundays really show off with consistently sunny weather, low humidity and perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving. The wet season is characterised by tropical showers, which are usually brief.

• High season: Spring (September to November) 
• Low season: Wet season (January to March)
• Don’t miss: During winter (June to August) you can witness pods of humpback whales as they arrive to give birth, socialise and mate

Destinations near the Whitsundays

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Top 10 Things To Do In The Whitsundays

Before we start our Top 10 Things To Do In The Whitsundays, Did you know that The Whitsundays has 74 islands that lie between the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia and the Great Barrier Reef?

We know what you’re thinking, that’s a lot of lands to explore… and trust us, it’s worth every minute. This post is your ultimate guide to the Whitsunday Islands and everything they have to offer—if you’re wondering which places are worth setting foot on, or how to even get to them, then grab Airlie Beaches best coffee and read on.

I will quickly explain your options on arrival destinations in the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach and Hamiltion Island

Airlie Beach

The first places you’re going to want to check out are Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island—and the main reason for this is because if you plan on visiting the Whitsundays, you’re going to need to fly into either of these places first.

Once you’ve landed, there are plenty of charters and airport shuttles that can get you around and about. If you’re flying into the mainland, you’ll need to commute to Airlie Beach before you can really drop your bags, kick back and relax. Thankfully, everything you’ll want to see and do is within walking distance once you get here—so any restaurant, spa, or marina you need is just a short, ten-minute walk away.

Hamilton Island

If you’re flying to Hamilton Island on the other hand, you’ll still have access to tours and islands, but you’ll be a short trip away from the mainland. Not to worry though—Hamilton Island has all its own facilities and accommodation options, and it’s hardly a place you’ll feel isolated at with the number of luxurious islander destinations and activities on your doorstep.

Whitsundays To Everywhere can get you from Whitsunday Airport to Airlie Beach, and Cruise Whitsundays has daily ferries that can chauffeur you to and from Hamilton Island (as well as other places).

Ok, let’s get started ….

Here Are Your Top 10 Things To Do In The Whitsundays

1. visit whitehaven beach & hill inlet lookout.

If you visit The Whitsunday Islands it’s a must-do to visit Whitehaven Beach! It’s only the most incredible beach with the purest white sand, with 97% pure silicon white sand it’s so soft it actually feels like walking on flour. To top this off there is the most beautiful swirling sands and crystal-clear ocean waters!

If you have your own boat you can spend all day here or even camp at the south end otherwise book a Whitehaven Beach Tour for the best experience. This will always be the #1 Things to do in the Whitsundays

2. Snorkel On The Great Barrier Reef

This experience is outstanding to say the least, snorkeling among fish and coral in clear warm tropical waters is the best fun you can have with a wetsuit on!

To snorkel the Great Barrier Reef you have 2 options

• Outer Reef with Cruise Whitsundays from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island Or Explore from Hamilton Island
• Inner reef trip with a good company like ZigZag Whitsundays Day Tour .

  Some of the best snorkelling locations include Manta Ray Bay (Hook Island), Blue Pearl Bay (Hayman Island), Langford Island, Hardy Reef, Bait Reef, Chalkies and Peter Bay.

#3. Take A Scenic Flight

I get excited when I talk about scenic flights and there is a very good reason. They are simply breathtaking! I use Fly Australia charters for my Whitsundays And Airlie Beach Scenic Flight as they only take 5 guests maximum and you are guaranteed a window seat.

The flight is 70 minutes long and you will fly over the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach twice, The Outer Great Barrier Reef and the world-famous Heart Reef (yes there is a reef shaped just like a heart) Just about every time you will spot sharks, turtles or stingrays from the air. Without seeing this for yourself it’s hard to comprehend just how big this living ecosystem is.

I have been here 20 years and done dozens of flights and I’m excited every time before I go.

#4. Visit Hamilton Island

The most famous resort destination in the Whitsundays is Hamilton Island, affectionately known as “The Rock” this island resort is more like a small town. With a mix of high-end residential apartments and houses and holiday accommodation, it is a playground for all budgets.

To visit Hamilton island for the day there is just one ferry service so check out Cruise Whitsundays timetable for transfers to and from Airlie Beach.

For guests staying on the island, there are a wide range of activities and tours you can take from the island, if you are looking for a boat like ZigZag that departs hamilton island check out Hamilton Island Watersports full and half-day tours

#5. Visit Airlie Beach

Known as the “Gateway To The Whitsundays” and “Heart Of The Reef”Airlie Beach has everything you need for a tropical holiday.

Departing daily from Coral Sea Marina and Port Of Airlie are Half-day Tours, Full Day Tours, Overnight Tours and activities like jet skis, skydiving, aerobatic planes etc.

If boating and adrenaline are not your thing, there are some spectacular beaches, crocodile safaris, rainforest walks, mountain bike tours, stand-up paddleboarding etc

The main street is alive with cafes, pubs, clothes shops and restaurants and even has a small Woolworths in the main street so you can save some money on eating out.

#6. Go Bareboating

This one is screaming up the things to do in the Whitsundays list! Ever dreamed of sailing a yacht around tropical islands even though you have no experience? Well, your dreams have come true! With most hires starting at 4 – 7 days you will get full training on how to sail the Whitsundays. Don’t worry most of these boats are easy to operate and you will have someone helping you leave and return to the marina

Bareboating has rapidly increased in popularity since the start of covid so if this is on your bucket list, Book Early

#7. Take A Jetski Tour

A jetski tour is an awesome way to see some of the closer islands and have some real fun at the same time.

Depending on the tour you can ride out in pioneer bay (out front of Airlie Beach) or visit daydream or Palm Bay on Long Island, these tours are between 1.5 to 4 hours

#8. See Crocodiles In The Wild Or At Farm

Not so well known for the Whitsundays, but we have a crocodile farm and you can also take a tour in the Proserpine river to see them in the wild . Both are superb ways of seeing crocodiles while you are in North Queensland

One of these should be on your list to do when visiting the Whitsundays.

#9. Visit The Airlie Beach Lagoon

One of the most popular Whitsundays things to do is FREE!. The Airlie Beach lagoon is situated in the middle of town right beside the sea. This is the perfect place to cool off and let the kids run wild. the complex has a large outdoor pool/lagoon with ranging depths suited for all ages, there is even a small toddler shallow lagoon.

You will also find plenty of shade and seating, free BBQs and a kids playground

#10. Cape Gloucester and the Resort (local tip you won’t find elsewhere)

I’m giving away a locals secret here and will probably be lynched in the main street… but here goes. Cape Gloucester is one of the most picturised places on the mainland, situated only 30 minutes from Airlie Beach is both Montes Resort and Cape Gloucester Resort, these are basic resorts right on the beach and day-trippers are welcome to come drink and eat at the restaurants.

If you don’t want the hustle and bustle of Airlie Beach these both have accommodation as well or you could check out Hydeaway Bay on Airbnb ( I do this twice a year)

That is my list of Whitsundays Things To Do and I hope you have a great time exploring these destinations and activities. If you are interested in our ZigZag Whitsundays Day Tour please see all the information below

Inbound Sales And Marketing Specialist At ZigZag Whitsundays

Nath J has lived and worked in the Whitsundays since 2001. Over these 20 years, he has spent 18 of them in the tourism industry. 

As always if you have any questions about Things To Do In The Whitsundays , you can head over to our FAQ page or contact us on 07 4813 9007 or [email protected]

ZigZag Whitsundays Day Tour Details

The Tour Boat

This is no ordinary boat, powered by FOUR 300hp Suzuki Engines the boat is fast and yet extremely comfortable with highback padded seats. Seasickness is virtually eliminated as the boat rides on top of any waves,  no rocking side to side whatsoever, making this Whitsundays day trip perfect for any guest worried about feeling sick on the ocean. ZigZag Whitsundays  has a shallow draft and stairs folding down from the front this is the perfect boat for beach landings.

Itinerary For The Day

** Note – this is a general itinerary there are a lot of factors that can change this including tides and wind. ZigZag Departs Coral Sea Marina|Resort in Airlie Beach. Our meeting time is 8 am sharp. Departing from Coral Sea Marina we head to the snorkel location for around 90 minutes. Then off to Whitehaven Beach for lunch and a guided walk to the south Whitehaven lookout. Next stop is Palm Bay resort on Long Island . for around 60 minutes and back at Coral sea marina at 4 pm

Whitehaven Beach

ZigZag Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Tour tour will spend around 2 hours discovering the new south lookout and the beach. This Beach is continually voted Australia’s number 1 beach in the Trip Advisor awards. The beach is 7 km long and holds some of the purest silica sand in the world totalling around 98.7%. ZigZag will make sure you get away from the daily crowds and have plenty of time to explore with family and friends. When the boat first pulls up to Whitehaven, you will be served a cold buffet lunch. There is a good reason this is number one on the things to do in the Whitsundays list!

South Whitehaven Lookout

The new South Whitehaven Lookout opened in 2019. In one direction you will see a spectacular view down the entire 7 km of Whitehaven Beach, and in the other direction, you will see the open ocean and islands leading back to the mainland. The walk is around 45 mins return (including time at the top) and is beginner grade and you will need a level of low-medium fitness. In my personal opinion, the South Lookout delivers more wow factor every day of the week while the Northern lookout highly depends on tides and is overcrowded

Snorkelling In The Whitsundays

Whether you have snorkelled before or this is your first time, the Whitsunday Islands are perfect for beginners and advanced alike. With the coral bays sheltered from wind and tide and most coral starting only meters from the beach, this is the ideal location for the whole family to see turtles and visit Nemo in a natural environment. On our Whitsundays Day Trip all the snorkelling equipment, including wet suits are provided along with flotation devices if needed. The qualified crew will watch over everyone on rescue boards so you can feel safe and enjoy the best coral and tropical fish the Whitsunday region has to offer.

Dynamic Pricing

The only Whitsundays Day Trip with Dynamic Pricing, Tickets Start At Only $179

Comfortable Boat Ride

Comfortable Ride With More Destinations And More Time At Them

Everything Included

Our Tour Is Fully Inclusive Of  Lunch Snacks Snorkel Equipment and Wetsuit.

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Things To Do in the Whitsundays

Explore the Whitsundays from the bow of a sailboat, cruise through the islands and drop anchor for a quick snorkel and wake up to a sunrise over world famous Whitehaven Beach. Or enjoy the spoils of a mainland resort with Coral Sea views at Airlie Beach , yet another 74 island wonder.

With its natural beauty and world-renowned icons, the Whitsundays are on many travellers' wishlists. You can knock off a few items on your bucket list right here: scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef, sink your toes into the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach, take a scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands, teach the kids how to fish, go snorkelling and have a family holiday or a romantic escape on an island resort.

Experience the Whitsundays

Whether you are into adrenalin and excitement or prefer some good old fashioned rest and relaxation, the Whitsundays has a wide variety of experiences to make your holiday one of the most memorable ever.

Activities & Experiences

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For a complete list of things to do in the Whitsundays , visit WotToDo.com.au

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9 Best Islands in the Whitsundays

Written by Karen Hastings Jan 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Karen Hastings and photographer Brian Hastings have island-hopped around the Whitsundays multiple times, including a recent visit in October 2022.

Welcome to Paradise! Rimmed with pure-white, powder-soft sand lapped by turquoise water, the idyllic Whitsunday Islands reside along the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef . These tropical beauties are one of the highlights of visiting Queensland , and are a must-see on your Aussie travel itinerary .

Whitsunday Islands National Park protects about 30 of these 74 lush islands; four are home to popular resorts; and the others look much like they did thousands of years ago, after rising seas drowned this former coastal mountain range.

Lovers of water sports and nature will be in heaven. Top things to do in the Whitsunday Islands include diving and snorkeling the reefs, swimming and basking on bliss-inducing beaches, hiking the nature trails, fishing, and island hopping on a boat.

You can also explore the islands on the Ngaro Sea Trail , a network of hiking trails and seaways through important Indigenous sites of the islands' first inhabitants, the Ngaro people.

The Whitsunday Islands are also among the world's best sailing destinations — Airlie Beach and Shute Harbor are the main launching points for bareboat adventures.

But where should you go first? Read on for the lowdown on the best islands in the Whitsundays.

1. Whitsunday Island

2. hamilton island, 3. hayman island, 4. hook island, 5. long island, 6. daydream island, 7. south molle island, 8. haslewood island, 9. keswick island, map of islands in the whitsundays.

Whitsunday Island tops our list because of its major wow factor: spectacular Whitehaven Beach .

This sublime seven-kilometer mingling of pure white sand and turquoise sea is one of the best beaches in Australia — if not the world. Lay eyes on it from the lookout, slip into the silky sea, and lie on its powder-soft silica sand, and you'll know why.

Elsewhere such a beautiful island might be marred by massive resorts. Not here. In fact, Whitsunday Island is blissfully uninhabited.

Protected by Whitsunday National Park, this is the largest island in the Whitsunday group, but most visitors only experience a small sliver of it. Day trippers come here to hike up to a series of lookouts over Hill Inlet, where shifting tides create a Rorshach-like masterpiece. From above, it looks like an abstract watercolor painting, awash in hues of electric blue marbled with dazzling white.

Want to stay a bit longer? You can visit on a boat — public moorings are available in Tongue Bay. Alternatively, you can pitch a tent at several basic campsites on the island.

Whitsunday Island is also part of the Ngaro Sea Trail , a network of hikes and paddling routes around the islands. Visit the national parks website for maps and routes.

But if you only have a day, the Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout Full-Day Snorkeling Cruise is a great way to see the highlights. On this full-day tour, you'll zoom out to the island on a high-speed catamaran, hike up Hill Inlet, spend time on the beach, and snorkel the surrounding reefs.

Hamilton Island has something for everyone. As the most developed of the Whitsunday Islands, this favorite Aussie holiday destination offers a diverse range of accommodation and tourist attractions. It's the only Whitsunday Island with a commercial airport , making it easy to start your holiday as soon as you step off the plane.

The top things to do in Hamilton Island cater to all ages. Dine at one of the restaurants in the marina, browse the shops, ogle paintings at Hamilton Island Art Gallery, play golf or tennis, hike the trails, or just bask on beautiful Catseye Beach — not to mention reef trips and all the usual Whitsundays water sports. The best way to explore the island is in a golf cart, the main mode of transport.

Hamilton Island is also one of the best islands in the Whitsundays for families . Kids can get up close to iconic Aussie critters at Hamilton Island Wildlife , go bowling, and get their speed fix at the go-kart track.

Wondering where to stay? Hamilton Island accommodation suits most budgets, from the luxury Qualia Resort on Hamilton's northern tip to family-friendly apartments, yacht club villas, and palm-shaded bungalows. Wherever you stay, keep a lookout for the island's wild cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets — they often make an appearance on your balcony.

Getting to Hamilton Island is easy. Direct flights operate from major Australian cities, and frequent ferries can whisk you here from Airlie Beach in about 30 minutes.

If you're seeking a luxury tropical island hideaway, Hayman Island ticks all the boxes.

The northernmost of the Whitsundays' inhabited islands, Hayman Island is no stranger to hosting guests. It was one of the first islands on the reef developed for tourism in part due to its rich natural beauty. Emerald rainforests, rocky coves, and ravishing palm-lined beaches greet visitors here, as well as one of the best resorts in the Whitsundays.

Hayman Island is home to the sumptuous five-star InterContinental Hayman Island Resort overlooking an idyllic slice of white-sand beach and a huge lagoon-style pool.

When you're not living it up at the resort or taking trips to the reef, you can kayak around the clear waters, swim, sail, hike the trails, or golf on the driving range.

If you're wondering how to get to Hayman Island, lucky guests here usually arrive by seaplane, helicopter, or luxury yacht.

Heavenly Hook Island is a nature-lover's Eden. Ringed by thriving reefs, this rocky, rugged island offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the Whitsundays . In fact, it's one of the most popular places to visit for snorkeling stops on day trip tours.

Hook Island is also the second largest island in the Whitsundays, and offers some of the best anchorages among all the islands.

If snorkeling and diving are your preferred activities, you'll have plenty of choice here. Manta Ray Bay has a vast array of fish, from giant trevally to Maori wrasse, batfish, and parrotfish. Local tour guides call it "the aquarium."

Cockatoo Point has some of the best coral in the Whitsundays. Here, you can embark on a rewarding drift snorkel over vibrant gardens of staghorn coral, plate coral, and clusters of feathery soft corals. Wrasse Bay, Luncheon Bay, Maureen's Cove, and Butterfly Bay are other popular snorkeling spots and anchorages.

But perhaps the best anchorage spot is Nara Inlet . Located on the south coast, this long, fjord-like inlet offers excellent protection from the elements. It's also home to a unique Whitsunday attraction: From here, you can hike to ancient Aboriginal cave paintings , evidence of the Ngaro people, who were the island's first inhabitants. And, after heavy rains, you can also visit a beautiful waterfall .

Other things to do on Hook Island include hiking the rainforest trails and fossicking on coral-strewn beaches. Hook Island is also part of the Ngaro Sea Trail.

You won't find any resorts here , but camping on Hook Island comes with gorgeous vistas. Maureen's Cove, Steen's Beach, Crayfish Beach, and secluded Curlew Beach all offer basic campsites with picnic tables and composting toilets, but you'll have to bring plenty of fresh water.

Long Island is one of the best islands in the Whitsundays for couples who love nature. You'll find two intimate resorts here nestled on their own peaceful bays.

Honeymooners love to hide away at the adults-only eco-chic Elysian Retreat . This unique 5-star resort is the first 100 percent solar-powered resort in the Whitsundays , and with a maximum of only 20 guests, it makes the perfect intimate island retreat. Guests here love to kayak around the bay, swim in the magnesium infinity pool, snorkel, and feast on mouthwatering meals prepared by the chef using produce from the resort's organic garden.

The four-star Palm Bay Resort is great for those who want the option to cook their own meals. The Balinese-style villas, suites, and houses here nestle among palm trees on the bay.

National park protects most of the island, and fringing reefs lie just offshore. Plus you can explore the island on more than 13 kilometers of walking tracks . If you're bringing your own boat, you'll find secluded coves for safe anchorage.

A bonus of Long Island is its easy access. It's the closest island to the mainland at only 20 minutes by boat from Shute Harbour.

Daydream Island is one of the best islands in the Whitsundays for families. It's the smallest island in the group, but it manages to pack in plenty of attractions despite its size.

You'll only find one resort here, the family-friendly four-star Daydream Island Resort , which takes up most of the island. It's a paradise for kids and adults of all ages.

At center stage is a vast Living Reef coral lagoon , filled with tropical fish, stingrays, starfish, sea cucumbers, and small sharks. Kids can get up-close to all the critters at the touch tanks and the Underwater Observatory and then head out to see them on a Great Barrier Reef trip.

But that's not all. Enticing lagoon-style pools, a luxury spa, marine biologist talks, an action-packed kids' club, an array of water sports, and rainforest walks complete the many things to do at this family-friendly resort. You'll never be bored here.

Luckily Daydream Island is one of the closest to the mainland, so it's only a quick ferry ride from Airlie Beach .

Lovely, undulating South Molle Island lives long in the memories of older Aussies as a favorite holiday destination. Part of the Molle group, it once hosted a popular resort, which was all but destroyed by cyclone Debbie in 2016. Plans are afoot to rebuild it, but even without the resort, you'll still find plenty to love here.

Frolic on the beautiful white-sand beaches, snorkel the fringing reefs, and hike along 14 kilometers of walking trails through rainforests and rocky coves. Birders will enjoy spotting some of the island's many species, from rainbow lorikeets to the quirky bush stone curlews.

South Molle Island is also one of the few Whitsunday islands where you can mountain bike .

But how do you get here? If you don't have your own boat, you can organize a private boat transfer from Airlie Beach or Shute Harbor. It takes about 30 minutes.

Though you can no longer rest your head at the comfortable resort, you can stay overnight at two South Molle campgrounds : Sandy Bay in the south of the island and Paddle Bay.

South Molle Island is also part of the Ngaro Sea Trail.

If you've always wanted to find a beach as beautiful as Whitehaven without the crowds, we have a little secret to share.

Haslewood Island, a neighbor of Whitehaven's more popular Whitsunday Island, is home to just that: Chalkies Beach . Here, you'll find the same silky soft silica sand and blissful blue waters without all the swarms of tourists. But Shhhh! Don't tell anyone!

Other things to do here include fishing, swimming, and snorkeling in the clear waters and hiking the 300-meter Haslewood Island Lookout trail for beautiful views over to neighboring Whitehaven Beach. Keep an eye out for green turtles and hawksbill turtles just off the beach.

There's a catch about visiting Haslewood Island, though: You'll need to charter your own boat if you don't have one of your own. Shute Harbor and Airlie Beach can help you with that. Cruise over to Haslewood, find a mooring, and bask at one the Whitsundays' most exquisite slices of sand and sea.

Gorgeously green, Keswick Island is a hidden gem. It lies off Mackay and is one of the southernmost islands in the Whitsundays. Laced with pockets of gleaming white sand and rimmed by coral reefs, this hilly island is also one of the most picturesque.

South Cumberland Islands National Park protects more than 80 percent of the island, and you can explore the subtropical rainforests on hiking trails , or just unwind on the empty beaches .

Water sports are also appealing. Paddle the clear waters in a kayak, cast a fishing line, or immerse yourself in the underwater world. Divers will find plenty of life on the reefs, as well as historic wrecks in the surrounding waters.

From July to September, you also have a chance to see migrating humpback whales offshore.

Wondering where to stay on Keswick Island? Choose from a large, self-contained beach house or a guesthouse. You can also camp at Singapore Bay or Victor Bay, but there are no facilities.

You have several options for getting to Keswick Island . You can book the Keswick Explorer, or charter a boat to Keswick Island from the Mackay Marina. Alternatively, charter a plane or helicopter for the short 12-minute flight.

Keswick Island is also one of the possible destinations on a Wildcat Mackay day tour . The itinerary depends on the weather conditions on the day, but Keswick is a popular stop.

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In the clear warm waters of tropical Queensland in Australia, lies a wonder that has to be seen to be believed. As if experiencing the beautiful climate and atmosphere of the region itself were not attractive enough, visitors are amazed at the stunning pleasure of the Great Barrier Reef. If diving is your passion, then this is the place for you. The Great Barrier Reef is a diver's mecca, and the Whitsundays has companies catering for every skill level from resort dives to 5 day learn to dive courses. You don't have to go far from the coast to see beautiful coral and abundant marine life in the Whitsundays. Great snorkelling spots can be found right on your doorstep as fringing reefs surround many of the islands.

The sheltered, warm waters of the Whitsundays provide one of the worlds premier sailing destinations. With the largest fleet of bareboat charter (skipper-yourself) in the Southern Hemisphere, you are sure to find a craft to suit your needs. As well as bareboat charter the Whitsundays has a diverse fleet of crewed and skippered sailing craft which take individuals, couples or groups on trips around the coast and islands for 3 to 6 days.

Visitors can also see the magnificent humpback whales frolic in the calm waters between July and September as the pass through the Whitsundays on their annual migration.

The Goorganga wetlands, stretching south from Prosperpine through a network of creeks and waterholes, are home to a wide variety of native and migratory birdlife. The Prosperpine River, a major artery in the wetland system, is home to the ancient estuarine crocodile and a favourite spot for anglers chasing mangrove jack, threadfin salmon and the world-renowned barramundi. Proserpine River Eco Tours operate out of Airlie Beach deep into this animal-lovers paradise.

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