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Do you Need Stinger Suits for Whitehaven Beach?

Updated Fri 10 May 2024

Yes, stinger suits are highly recommended during the Whitsundays stinger season from October to May, even at Whitehaven Beach. The tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef create an ideal environment for marine stingers to reproduce during the warmer Australian months. By taking the recommended precautions, such as wearing a stinger suit during your time in the water, it is very unlikely to be stung by a marine stinger in the Whitsundays.

The majority of overnight boat tours and day tours that visit Whitehaven Beach include stinger suits and snorkelling equipment or they are available for a small hire fee. For those unsure of their wetsuit size, be sure to check out our wetsuit guide. So, let's fill you in on the top stinger season precautions and start planning a trip to Whitehaven Beach, one of Australia's most pristine beaches!

Man wearing a stinger suit and bandana throwing 'shakka' hand signs at Whitehaven Beach


When is Stinger Season in the Whitsundays?

Stinger season in the Whitsundays takes place from late October until May, as the warm water temperatures create an ideal breeding ground for several types of marine stingers, such as the harmful Irukandji and Box Jellyfish. In addition, harmless jellyfish such as moon jellies and crystal jellies can be sighted around the islands, making a popular snack for local sea turtles.

Whilst there is still a chance that you might encounter a marine stinger in the open reef waters, high-risk areas generally include sheltered bays and beaches with low wave activity. To keep safe and avoid any worries during your tropical getaway, simply don a wetsuit during your time on Whitehaven Beach, carry vinegar if you're enjoying a solo beach or boat trip and keep the good times rolling!

Despite falling at the beginning of stinger season, the summer period is one of the most popular seasons in the Whitsundays, taking place during the Australian school holidays. To secure your day of sun-drenched R & R and relaxing in the crystal-clear shallows of Whitehaven Beach, we recommend booking your overnight and day tours in advance. On the other hand, for those searching for a discount escape during the February to March low season, the Whitsundays are well worth keeping your eyes on!

Person snorkelling wearing a stinger suit amongst reef fish


Tours with Stinger Suits 

So, do you have to wear stinger suits in the Whitsundays? Yes, we highly recommend wearing a stinger suit, especially during the Whitsunday stinger season. The best part? It's super easy to don a wetsuit and continue your splash into the crystalline shallows of Whitehaven Beach.

Whitsunday Bullet

Group of backpackers playing in the shallows at Whitehaven Beach

Get a speedy experience on a stable, spacious and air-conditioned vessel that's made for comfort and top-tier adventure! With a maximum of 37 passengers onboard, you'll cruise from one world-famous tropical destination to the next, including Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Hill Inlet Lookout and Peter's Bay fringing reefs. Plus, try your hand at paddleboarding above the reef to gain a belly full of laughs and a new perspective on the underwater forests below.

Whitsunday Bullet is completely equipped with water equipment including wetsuits and snorkelling equipment. The opportunity to explore both ends of Whitehaven Beach has never looked so excellent!

CW Great Barrier Reef Tour (departing from Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Airlie Beach)

Female traveller observing an underwater chamber

Jump onboard an Outer Great Barrier Reef day trip jam-packed with aquatic activities, delicious buffet lunches and spacious reef pontoon areas. Located adjacent to the coral walls of Hardy Reef and featuring the Sunshine State's largest underwater viewing chamber, the CW: Great Barrier Reef Tour is one of the most unique ways to experience the Outer Reef from Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island or Daydream Island.

After cruising towards Hardy Reef, begin the real adventure on Hardy Reef! Spot vibrant marine life up close in the underwater observatory and take an introductory or certified scuba dive, the chances to see the Great Barrier Reef up close and personal are abundant.

Choose where you depart from, fill your day with snorkelling and diving fun or kick back on the sun lounges, and add a scenic helicopter flight to your day - the activity choices are endless aboard Reefworld. 

Kiana 3 Days & 2 Nights

Person wearing a hat aboard Kiana looking out at the Whitsunday Islands

Treat yourself to a spectacular 3-day and 2-night tour that takes you to all the hotspots of the Whitsunday Islands and Outer Great Barrier Reef on a comfortable sailing vessel. With a maximum of 12 guests per trip, you'll get to enjoy a personalised dive and snorkelling experience at uncrowded reef destinations. 

Kiana is fully equipped with water equipment including dive compressors for scuba divers and snorkelers. Enjoy spacious air-conditioned interiors after days of exploring under the sun, large bathrooms and perfectly shaded exterior decks with the ultimate viewing point.

Plus, your first scuba dive onboard is free! Catering for all levels of diving experience, there's no other sailing tour that allows you to adventure amongst the vivid Bait Reef. Add a few additional dives or take it easy with a snorkel, it's up to you!

Camira Whitsundays

Group of people wearing stinger suits aboard Camira

Say hello to Camira, one of the fastest sailing catamarans in the world and a top-class day tour vessel in the Whitsunday's premium fleet! A speedy 85-foot catamaran with all the comfort trimmings, a day aboard Camira includes a visit to the swirling sands of Hill Inlet, time along the turquoise shorelines of Whitehaven Beach and a snorkel amongst a flourishing inner fringing reef. Soak up nature and island hop with friends and family, Camira's itinerary is incredible!

Complimentary snorkelling gear and protective stinger suits are provided aboard Camira. You'll also enjoy an Aussie BBQ lunch and all-inclusive drinks during your day. There’s no better way to experience the azure waters of the Whitsundays - during any season!

These are just a slice of Whitsundays overnight and day tours that provide stinger suits and visit the sensational Whitehaven Beach. Check out our range of adventure-packed day tours and island-hopping overnight tours to find your ultimate match.


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