Things to Do in the Wet Season in the Whitsundays
Updated 05/02/22
The Whitsundays are known for sailing, snorkelling, beaches, and fun in the sun, but being located in the tropics, they do get a wet season. While the region boasts a solid 300 days of perfect sunny weather a year, you may find yourself drinking pina coladas and getting caught in the rain in the summertime. But don’t fret, there is still plenty to do in this beautiful part of Australia no matter what the forecast!
The wet season occurs from January to March, but don’t let the forecast scare you - often due to the layout of the islands and outer reef the weather is subject to change quite quickly. Showers on the mainland of Airlie Beach doesn’t necessarily mean it will be raining out on the islands or reef!
More often than not, the sun will inevitably come out and passengers will get to still enjoy all the natural beauty the Whitsundays has to offer. If you are planning on visiting in the rainy season, our local team of experts have a full list of activities to keep you as dry, or as wet as you'd like - so you can have a truly memorable time in the ‘Wet-Sundays!’
Daydream Island Living Reef
If you think that a little rain is a good enough reason not to visit this treasured island, think again - the newly renovated Daydream Island is back and better than ever with their expansion of the much loved Living Reef outdoor aquarium! Visit the viewing room underground, or above as the largest outdoor aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere winds throughout the resort. Feed stingrays, enjoy their free fish feeding by real marine biologists, and check out their education centre where you can find Nemo! Visit for the day or overnight, and lose yourself in an underwater wonderland! Either wet or dry!
Fast Boat to Whitehaven Beach
You heard us - you’re probably thinking that you’d rather visit this iconic gem of the Whitsundays when the sun is shining, but believe us when we say that Whitehaven Beach looks great no matter what the weather is like! If you’re going to get a little wet anyway, why not take a fast boat like Bullet or Ocean Rafting out to add some thrill to your day and visit the dreamy panoramic views from Hill Inlet Lookout. The summertime boasts beautiful temperatures, so swimming and snorkelling are definitely still on the cards!
Airlie Beach Lagoon
A year-round favourite, especially during the Whitsundays stinger season, is the Airlie Beach Lagoon where you'll find locals and tourists alike cooling off in the lagoon's ample, luxurious space! Located in the heart of Airlie Beach, on the oceanfront, you can rest assured that the lagoon is patrolled by lifeguards during the day. The lagoon itself is more than 4,000 square metres and is completely free for all visitors. Bring the picnic rug, and have an Aussie BQQ with free barbecue facilities and onsite picnic areas - followed by a wade in the shallows! There are plenty of shaded areas perfect for rain or sunshine!
If you're looking for a beach to enjoy on the mainland of the Whitsundays, look no further than here. Remember to put on a stinger suit during the Whitsundays stinger season so keep safe!
Hamilton Island
Speaking of islands, Hamilton Island is one not to be missed, and is a perfect way to spend a rainy day! Offering over 60 activities for guests, there won’t be a shortage of things to do if you’re experiencing a little ‘liquid sunshine.’ There’s shopping, swim-up bars, and of course, golf buggy hire!
Enjoy their covered mini-golf course, 10 pin bowling alley, or visit their Wildlife Park where you can meet their resident croc and koalas! Pop over for the day, or ask us for the best overnight rates that include ferry transfers.
Whilst you're visiting Hamilton Island from Airlie Beach for the day or during your long weekend getaway be sure to take a ride up to the rooms in the main resort in the glass elevator! Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding Whitsunday Islands - rain or shine!
Ride on a Jetski
Since you’re going to be wet anyway, why not amp up the adrenaline and take a Jetski tour? Choose from an extensive variety of day tours including Jetski Safari, Two Island Safari, Airlie Adventure, and Ultimate Island Trek. Meet sea turtles up close and personal, explore the surrounding islands of the Whitsundays and get wet and wild in paradise!
Watersports on Sailing Boats
Overnight sailing charters are a must-do while in the Whitsundays, but you don’t have to spend it huddled in your cabin if you’re out there when it’s raining. Many boats offer stand up paddleboards and kayaks, or choose a tour like Atlantic Clipper with an inflatable waterslide, or Solway Lass with a rope swing! There are so many possibilities, (including onboard heated spas!) to choose from; for more information on which boats offer which activities, click here.
Cedar Creek Falls
One of the most common questions on Facebook in the Whitsundays is “Is Cedar Creek flowing?” A short drive from Airlie Beach, Cedar Creek Falls is fully pumping right after a rain, or anytime during the wet season. Hire a car for the day and head out for an epic day at these iconic freshwater falls.
Hiking and Bushwalking
The mainland and islands offer dozens of amazing bushwalks to incredible lookout points of the Whitsunday Islands and beyond. If you don’t mind getting wet, you can get some stellar photos with the different layers of clouds. Sunrises and sunsets can really pop if you get lucky during the summer wet season. For a full list of our favourite hikes around the region, read more here.
Walks and hikes around the Whitsundays are ideal during the summer wet season. The rain enables the rainforests unique vegetation to come to life before your eyes, and provides a much-needed escape from the day's hot heat! Make sure to bring your camera, there are more than ample opportunities to take draw-dropping pictures!
Explore the Outer Reef
With tours running all year round, an overnight trip to the Outer Reef is an experience you won't be forgetting any time soon! You've explored the exotic fringing reefs and lagoons around the Whitsunday Islands, now it is time to indulge in all the natural wonder the Outer Reef has to offer. Snorkel to your heart's content with an abundance of colourful marine species in their natural home - the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park! Make the most of your holiday, you and the reef fish won't notice it's raining when you're submerged in the underwater playgrounds below!
Staying in Airlie Beach during your tropical getaway? Be sure to read more about things to do in Airlie Beach here!
Be the judge - rain or shine the Whitsundays is always a good time!
