Things To Do
in Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are a stunning group of 74 islands located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Known for their crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, these islands are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The most famous among them is Whitehaven Beach, often ranked among the best beaches in the world.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities ranging from sailing and snorkeling to relaxing on the beach.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Whitehaven Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic boat ride to Whitehaven Beach and enjoy breakfast on the beach.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at Whitehaven Beach, followed by a guided walk through the Hill Inlet.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Snorkeling and Island Hopping
morning
:

Take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling among vibrant marine life.

afternoon
:

Visit Hamilton Island for lunch and explore its beautiful resorts and shops.

evening
:

Join a sunset cruise around the islands and enjoy dinner on board.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20 - $40
🍹Cocktail$12 - $20
🏨Hotel Night$100 - $300
🚌Public Transport Ticket$5 - $10
🛥️Boat Tour$100 - $200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and beaches
  • Variety of water activities
  • Friendly and relaxed atmosphere
  • Higher costs during peak season
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Potential for tropical storms in summer

Places to Visit in Whitsunday Islands

Visit one of these nice places.

Hill Inlet

A stunning inlet known for its swirling sands and turquoise waters, perfect for panoramic photos.

Whitehaven Beach

Famous for its pure white silica sand and clear waters, ideal for sunset photography.

The Great Barrier Reef

Capture the vibrant coral and marine life through underwater photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands offer a delightful culinary experience influenced by fresh local produce and seafood.

Whitsunday Islands Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barramundi

A popular local fish, often grilled or served with a tropical salsa.

Must-Try!

Moreton Bay Bugs

A type of shellfish native to the region, often served with garlic butter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Airlie Beach Markets

Held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Whitsunday Islands experience a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters are mild and dry, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is highest during the summer months, while winter offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Nature

Always follow local guidelines when visiting natural sites to preserve the environment.

Beach Attire

While swimwear is acceptable on the beach, wearing appropriate clothing when visiting restaurants is expected.

Greetings

A simple 'hello' or 'thank you' goes a long way; Australians appreciate friendly interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

The Whitsunday Islands are generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take common precautions. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep valuables secure. When swimming or snorkeling, pay attention to local guidelines regarding marine life and currents.

Tipping in Whitsunday Islands

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available in major areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot and humid weather with occasional tropical storms, perfect for beach activities.

Autumn (March - May)

Enjoy milder temperatures and less humidity; ideal for outdoor adventures.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler and drier conditions, great for sailing and exploring the islands.

Spring (September - November)

Warm weather with clear skies, perfect for snorkeling and hiking.

Nightlife Guide

Whitsunday Islands at Night

The nightlife in the Whitsunday Islands is laid-back yet vibrant, with a range of bars and beach clubs. Airlie Beach is the hub for nightlife, offering beachside bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. Most venues have a relaxed dress code, and many host events such as pub crawls and themed parties. Enjoy casual cocktails or local beers while soaking in the island atmosphere.

Hiking in Whitsunday Islands

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Conway National Park

Offers various trails through lush rainforests with stunning views of the islands and coastline.

Whitsunday Great Walk

A scenic 32 km trail that takes you through diverse landscapes, from beaches to rainforests, over several days.

Airports

How to reach Whitsunday Islands by plane.

Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Airlie Beach, this airport provides domestic flights to major cities in Australia.

Getting Around

Walkability

The Whitsunday Islands, particularly Airlie Beach, are quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance. The beachfront promenade is ideal for strolls, with easy access to cafes and bars. However, some areas may require transportation, especially for remote beaches and hiking trails.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

A diverse group of visitors from around the world, drawn to the region's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Local Residents

Primarily involved in tourism, hospitality, and agriculture, with a close-knit community feel.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

A popular sport in the region, with various sailing competitions held throughout the year.

Surf Lifesaving

Local surf clubs promote safety at beaches and participate in competitions along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the Whitsunday Islands is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist season. Public transportation options, such as buses and ferries, connect major points of interest. Car rentals are available for those who wish to explore the islands at their own pace.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Whitsunday Islands.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check with staff for vegan choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in the Whitsunday Islands is available through local clinics and hospitals in Airlie Beach. For more serious medical conditions, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Proserpine or Mackay. Visitors are encouraged to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide