Is Chalkies Beach Good For Snorkelling?
Chalkies Beach is an amazing snorkelling spot in the Whitsunday Islands! It's also a stunning beach for swimming, strolling, and sunbathing. Chalkies is often overlooked as a beach destination because it's located right next to the world famous Whitehaven Beach. But its fringing reefs are glorious, making it a top spot for snorkelling on Whitsunday boat tours and private charters.
Where is Chalkies Beach?
The beautiful Chalkies Beach is located on the coast of Haslewood Island, one of the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays. Haslewood Island sits just east of South Whitehaven Beach, the gleaming white, 7km strip of silica sand on Whitsunday Island. Some people consider Chalkies to be a smaller and less famous version of Whitehaven Beach. It has the same soft white sand and turquoise water but fewer tourists!
Is Chalkies Beach good for snorkelling?
As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Chalkies Beach has incredible snorkelling. All around Haslewood Island, vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine creatures thrive in the protected waters. Sea turtles are often spotted around Chalkies Beach, and the unique corals are a feast for the eyes. The water here is often calm because the islands and reef block any big swells.
Because of the clear, calm waters and abundant underwater wonders, Chalkies is a hotspot for snorkelling in the Whitsundays. It's also right next to Whitehaven Beach, making it a convenient stop on any Whitsunday sailing trips and private charters.
Is Chalkies Beach worth visiting?
Chalkies Beach is definitely worth visiting thanks to its pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and flourishing coral reefs. It's often considered one of the best beaches in the Whitsundays! When you need a break from the amazing snorkelling, you can hang out on the velvety white sand and sunbathe, have a picnic, or go for a stroll. The tropical scenery is like something out of a postcard, and though Chalkies doesn't have the same hype as Whitehaven, it's still a gorgeous island destination that is worth a visit.
How to get to Chalkies Beach in the Whitsundays
If you're planning to visit the little slice of paradise that is Chalkies Beach, you can get there on a boat tour or a private charter in the Whitsundays! Both are easy and convenient ways to island hop in the Whitsundays. Group tours are cheaper and great for solo travellers or backpackers who want a social experience. Private charters are ideal for small groups and families who want to plan their own itinerary and escape the crowds. Both options are plentiful in the Whitsundays.
Whitsunday Boat Tours
Many day trips and overnight tours in the Whitsundays visit Chalkies for snorkelling. Day trips usually have one or two snorkel locations, plus a visit to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. Popular day tours that often visit Chalkies for snorkelling include Whitsunday Bullet, Ocean Rafting, or Big Fury. Overnight tours usually include those as well, plus more snorkel and beach locations and more downtime on the water. Any number of overnight tours might visit Chalkies, from catamarans to maxi yachts and more.
On most Whitsunday boat tours, there are a few different snorkel spots to choose from and the skipper picks the best locations on the day. Tides, crowds, and weather conditions can affect the quality of the snorkel spot, so it's hard to know in advance whether or not your tour will visit Chalkies for snorkelling. But feel free to ask the crew onboard if Chalkies is a possibility!
Private Charters
Private charters from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island are the best option for travellers who want influence over their Whitsunday itinerary. If your main goal is to visit Chalkies Beach, your skipper will plan the day's itinerary around that because there are no other guests to cater for. Whether you're on a day charter or an overnight charter, you are the only guests onboard, so the itinerary is up to you! The experienced crew will help advise on the best locations, taking the tides and weather into account.
But a private charter is the best way to ensure you visit your chosen locations in the Whitsundays. In addition to your own curated itinerary, you can also enjoy an incredible day at sea with just you and your loved ones! Most private charters also include snacks, meals, beverages, and snorkel gear, plus a knowledgeable crew to help you have a seamless day at sea.
