Whitehaven Beach
Proserpine and Airlie Beach
This is your gateway to Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays. A tropical playground beyond your wildest imagination, where colourful reef and underwater life is visible through clear waters, and rainforest trails look over the tranquil Whitsunday Passage.
Reasons to fly Qantas
Baggage included
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Places to stay
When you’re in such a special part of the world, you’re going to want somewhere equally special to call home while you're there — and if you’re making your way to the Whitsunday Islands then you won’t find anywhere more special than Daydream Island Resort with tropical gardens, sparkling pools and views over the ocean and the iconic Living Reef.
In Airlie Beach it’s all about hospitality, Queensland sun and refreshing water, so why not choose a resort or hotel complete with poolside lounges and your favourite cocktail on demand. Try Mantra Club Croc on Shute Harbour Road, or Coral Sea Marina Resort on the waterfront just a short walk to the main streets of Airlie Beach.
To the north, Bowen is a sleepy seaside town boasting seven beautiful beaches largely undiscovered by tourists. Inland, Proserpine and Collinsville are charming towns each with something different to discover and explore. So get planning, because you’ll find options for every budget in The Whitsundays, from family holiday parks on secluded beaches to high-end resorts fit for a romantic weekend away.
Things to do
The Whitsundays is the sparkling heart of the Great Barrier Reef, with over 74 islands and a picturesque coastline creating an aquatic playground perfect for snorkeling, sailing, diving or swimming.
If there’s one bucket list activity synonymous with The Whitsunday Coast, it’s island sailing and cruising. In fact, this region is considered one of the top sailing destinations in the world. From Airlie Beach there are dozens of local operators waiting to introduce you to the best reefs to snorkel and the clearest waters to swim in as well as the iconic Whitehaven Beach and view from Hill Inlet and islands such as the holiday favourites Daydream, Hayman or Hamilton Island. Glass bottom boats, kayaking and scuba diving expeditions are some more of the plethora of water-based activities on offer, or if you’d like to return from your day on the water with more than great memories, join a fishing charter.
Skipper your own vessel and explore the passage from one of the sailboats, catamarans or powerboats available to rent from Airlie Beach, or for a truly memorable experience, take a scenic flight or helicopter ride and marvel at the islands and the Great Barrier Reef including the magnificent Heart Reef from a different perspective.
Once you’ve satisfied your sea legs, head inland and join a crocodile safari through Goorganga Plains, fish or enjoy water sports on Proserpine River – or, if you’d just like to lap up the tropical serenity, take a stroll in Airlie Beach along the Bicentennial Boardwalk to Cannonvale Beach or choose a pool and surrender to your book or favourite cocktail. You are on holiday after all.
Where to go
With so many holiday icons in close proximity, you’re truly in for a treat here on land, sea or in the sky.
For an easy detour on the drive between Proserpine and Airlie Beach, we recommend a visit to Cedar Creek FallsOpens in a new tab or window on Saltwater Creek Road. Enjoy the serenity of this striking waterfall set in a natural rock amphitheatre and surrounded by cedar trees, palms and orchards. Take a dip in the cool water of the rockpool or explore one of the nearby walking tracks of varying difficulty.
Drive 30km east from Proserpine, and just south of Airlie Beach and you’ll discover the majestic Conway National ParkOpens in a new tab or window A rainforest by the reef lined with secluded beaches, coastal lookouts and walking tracks. Utilise the picnic tables, barbeques and facilities at Cape Conway Picnic Area, walk the short Coastal Fringe Circuit or Hayward Gully Track or challenge yourself on the 27km Conway Circuit Mountain Bike Circuit overlooking Whitsunday Passage.
Bowen is the northern jewel in The Whitsundays crown, located on the shores of Edgecumbe Bay 67km north of Proserpine. This picturesque seaside town is a relaxed beachcomber’s paradise with award-winning, palm-fringed beaches, beautiful bays, and a warm tropical climate. Venture further and you'll discover Collinsville, 85km west of Bowen. The scenic drive will see you travel through orchards and farmland teeming with wildlife.
Airlie Beach
Everything you want in a tropical resort town, this is a favourite holiday destination for a reason.
Only 30 minutes by car from Proserpine, Airlie Beach is the best place in the region to browse boutique shops and to enjoy restaurants, cafes and nightlife – and it’s also the mainland gateway to the Whitsunday Islands.
The Whitsunday Islands
When it comes to clear waters and beautiful scenery, it doesn’t getter better than this. The jewel in Queensland’s tropical crown, this group of islands and waterways on the reef is like nowhere else.
Make lifetime memories with an island stay or day trip to this world-renowned paradise on earth.
Getting around
From the airport: The Whitsunday Coast Airport is 14km from Proserpine or 38km from Airlie Beach. Hire cars, taxis and several shuttle options are available from the terminal to help you reach your destination.
Around the island: The Whitsunday Coast is best explored by renting a car. Alternatively, tours and shuttle buses can be booked to help you get around.
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Important information
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Disclaimer: + The number of destinations is correct as at 25 January 2024 but is subject to change.
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