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Aerial view of coral reefs on the Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef, and surrounding water on the Whitsunday Coast. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Tourism and Events Queensland
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A paradise of islands, reefs and beaches

With 74 tropical islands and a swag of island resorts beckoning you from just off the coast, the Whitsundays are a deep dive into natural beauty. Go snorkelling around the Reef, sail around the islands or settle in for hardcore relaxation on one of the many secluded, spectacular beaches.

Fun things to do: Whitsunday Coast

  • Hang out at Airlie Beach and discover nearby Bowen
  • Head to award-winning Whitehaven Beach for mind-blowing beauty
  • Snorkel, dive and kayak your way around the Great Barrier Reef
  • Bushwalk to Cedar Creek Falls and swim under a waterfall
  • Tap into the best island activities on compact Hamilton Island

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Relax on award-winning Whitehaven Beach

Aerial shot of white sand and bright turquoise water with paddleboarder and boats at Whitehaven Beach. Image credit: Tourism and Events QueenslandTourism and Events Queensland
It's not hard to see why Whitehaven takes out those 'best beach' awards.

Treat your toes to the whitest, silkiest sand at Whitehaven Beach, voted the most beautiful beach in the country. The 7km beach lapped by turquoise water is on Whitsunday Island, the biggest of the island group. Go paddleboarding or sailing, then set your sights on the walking tracks that wind through the bushland. The view from the lookout at Tongue Point is a knockout.

Do the Great Barrier Reef, your way

Three people in diving gear, underwater with colourful coral in the foreground. Image credit: Tourism and Events QueenslandTourism and Events Queensland
The Great Barrier Reef is packed with underwater adventures for all ages.

Dive right into the Great Barrier Reef and all the amazing experiences at your fingertips. Snorkel around Hardy Reef (and sleep overnight on a pontoon!), hire a sea kayak and paddle through fringing reefs. Take a tour on an eco-friendly tall ship or just find a deserted nook and swim alongside the swaying coral.

Kick back at Airlie Beach

Aerial shot of Airlie Beach's waterfront with walking paths and lagoons. Image credit: Tourism and Events QueenslandTourism and Events Queensland
Spend some time in Airlie Beach before heading to the islands.

Airlie Beach is more than a launching pad to the Whitsunday Islands. This seaside town has a stack of great places to stay and dine, and a string of sensational beaches to relax on. Don't miss a hike in the nearby Conway National Park or a quick trip to Bowen, a hidden gem of award-winning beaches, bushwalks juicy mangoes and local seafood.

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