Labour Day Long Weekend In The Whitsundays
With an extra day to unwind, adventure, and spend time with loved ones, a public holiday like the Labour Day long weekend is the ideal time to head to the Whitsundays. Whether you’re keen for a tranquil sunset sail, some exceptional reef snorkelling and diving, or chill time on award-winning beaches, this tropical paradise is buzzing with energy as families, couples, and backpackers alike make the most of the time off!
Planning to pay this beautiful corner of Australia a visit during the public holiday? Read on for our top tips to make the most of the Labour Day long weekend in the Whitsundays!
When is the Labour Day long weekend in Australia?
Labour Day is observed all over Australia - though the exact date varies by state or territory. Here’s a little breakdown of when each part of the country marks the occasion:
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Victoria: The second Monday in March
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Western Australia: The second Monday in March
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Tasmania: The second Monday in March
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Queensland: The first Monday in May
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Northern Territory: The first Monday in May
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New South Wales: The first Monday in October
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South Australia: The first Monday in October
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Australian Capital Territory: The first Monday in October
As the Whitsunday region is in tropical Queensland, the Labour Day long weekend will run from Saturday 3rd May to Monday 5th May.
These Whitehaven Beach Tours can get you to paradise with no hassle!
Is May a good time to visit the Whitsundays?
Yes, May is a wonderful time to visit the Whitsundays! Not only does the month kick off with a fabulous long weekend, but it marks the beginning of calmer, more pleasant weather conditions.
The peak summer season has passed, which means lower humidity levels and fewer crowds, but high temperatures and excellent marine conditions! Read through our full rundown on what the weather is like in the Whitsundays in May for more information.
What’s on in the Whitsundays over the Labour Day long weekend?
While most Airlie Beach and Whitsundays visitors and residents will likely use the May long weekend to soak up the sunshine on the beach or head out on an overnight boat tour around the islands (more on that later), there will also be some fun-filled events running across the three days - so you’ll be entertained from start to finish! Events taking place across that weekend include:
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Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon: Test your speed and endurance over on Hamilton Island and sign up for one of Australia’s most scenic - but toughest - marathon runs on the 4th of May.
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The Australian Beach Boys Tribute Show: Head to The Pub at Airlie Beach Hotel on either the 3rd and 4th of May to hear ‘California Girls’, ‘Surfin USA’, and ‘Good Vibrations’ performed by the closest thing Australia has to the Beach Boys.
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’May The Fourth’ Night: If you’re planning a wild night out over the long weekend, look no further than Paddy’s Shenanigans in Airlie Beach, where the Irish-themed pub is hosting a Star Wars themed party, complete with musical entertainment, a costume competition and, of course, Guinness.
Best things to do in Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays on the Labour Day long weekend
There is no shortage of activities and experiences across Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays to keep you entertained throughout the long weekend, but here are some of our top choices...
Embark on an overnight sailing tour
A long weekend is the perfect opportunity to set out on an overnight sailing tour around the Whitsundays Islands. With large social boats, small sailing vessels, catamarans, and private charters to choose from, an overnight sailing tour is one of the best experiences on offer in the Whitsundays. With the extra day off, there’s plenty of time to set out on a dreamy 2-day, 2-night sailing tour. Island-hop, explore secluded beaches, sunbathe on the deck, and dive into the colourful fringing reef! With all meals and accommodation covered while you're on board, an overnight tour is, without a doubt, one of the best things you can do in the Whitsundays!
Visit Whitehaven, Hill Inlet, and snorkel in one day
Don't want to commit to a night out at sea? Book a day tour to the Whitsunday Islands instead! There are lots of day boat tours to choose from - most of which include a visit to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and a beautiful snorkelling stop. Enjoy a fun, action-packed trip around the islands and make it back to Airlie Beach in time for your dinner!
Go scuba diving
Take your reef exploration a step further and book a scuba diving experience! Whether you're an aspiring diver or a total pro, there's something for you in the Whitsundays. Head out on an overnight scuba-focused tour that takes guests to the most sensational dive spots over 2-3 days, or take a day trip to the Reef World pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef. Not only can you set off on an introductory or recreational dive adventure, but if you've got more time to spare over the long weekend, you could even get certified while you're out on the water!
Take a scenic flight
One of the most beautiful opportunities you can have in this part of Australia is a scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Choose between a small plane or a helicopter and take to the skies, soaring over the tropical blue Coral Sea. Depending on which flight you book, you might be lucky enough to see the famous Heart Reef - be sure to have your camera at the ready!
Indulge in a sunset cruise
If you have a free evening to spare over the long weekend, a sunset cruise is the perfect way to spend it. Treat yourself to a glass of bubbly and some refreshing nibbles as the sun sets over the Whitsundays, painting the skies orange and causing the gentle waves to twinkle and dance. Perfect for couples, families, or those simply seeking to unwind after an action-packed day, a sunset sail wraps up any good Whitsundays experience.
Where should I stay in the Whitsundays for the long weekend?
The beauty of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays is that there are so many different accommodation options, with something to suit every type of visitor, whether you're looking for an upscale stay or something a little more lowkey.
Luxury Resorts & Island Stays
If you want to treat yourself this long weekend, consider a luxury resort on one of the fabulous Whitsunday Islands! Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Long Island, Hayman Island - and soon Lindeman Island - offer fabulous tropical vacation stays, complete with dreamy amenities and exclusive activities. If it sounds like that might be for you, be sure to check out:
- Hamilton Island Reef View Hotel
- Hamilton Island Qualia
- Hamilton Island Beach Club
- Elysian Retreat
- Daydream Island Resort
- InterContinental Hayman
If you'd rather be based on the mainland, Airlie Beach is also home to some exquisite resorts to choose from. Our favourite choices include:
Airlie Beach Hotels and Airbnbs
If you're looking for more standard accommodation options, there are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from around Airlie Beach over the Labour Day long weekend. Accessible from the centre of Airlie and frequented by tour operator courtesy buses, local hotels and Airbnbs are excellent accommodation options for those who want to be out and about exploring the islands while they're in the Whitsundays. Check in, drop your bags, and get going! Take a look through some of our most popular stay options for inspiration!
- Beach Court Holiday Villas
- Airlie Central Town House
- Heart Hotel
- Airlie Beach Hotel
- at Whitsunday Vista Holiday Apartments
Camping and budget stay options
Whether you're hoping to stick to a budget or you'd rather be at one with nature, there are also some low-spend accommodation options around the Whitsundays. A key stop along the east coast of Australia, the Whitsundays and Airlie Beach are a popular destination among backpackers, so there are hostels galore if that's what you're in the market for. We'd recommend:
If camping is more your style, why not set off on a once-in-a-lifetime camping trip on a Whitsunday island? Bring your own camping gear or hire some from a local tour company, and head out to one of a select few islands for a night of sleeping on the beach under the stars! Island camping is available on
