Long Weekend in the Whitsundays
The October Long Weekend in the Whitsundays is approaching and it’s time to start putting some plans into action! Having a three day weekend gives travellers and locals an extra day to immerse themselves in the beauty of paradise. We're going to explain what the October Long Weekend is for, and provide some fun ways to enjoy the weekend in the Whitsundays!
What is the October Long Weekend in Queensland?
The October Long Weekend in Queensland is for the King's Birthday. Queensland is the only state or territory that celebrates this holiday, however there is also a bank holiday weekend on the same date in Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales, and South Australia to mark Labour Day. This year, both public holidays fall on Monday, 6th of October.
Planning A Trip To The Whitsundays? Don't Forget To Book Your Tours In Advance To Avoid Missing Out!
Ways to celebrate the Long Weekend in the Whitsundays
1. Go on an overnight sail
One of the best things you can do to familiarise yourself with the beautiful Whitsundays region is to spend two or three days sailing through the islands. Whether it be hopping aboard a party boat for backpackers, enjoying a more intimate getaway on an overnight catamaran, or zipping out to explore and sleep on the Great Barrier Reef, overnight sailing tours are perfect for a bank holiday weekend. Grab your partner, friends, kids or even your grandma and book in that overnight sail adventure you won't forget!
2. Try island camping
A long weekend in the Whitsundays is the perfect time to go on a camping adventure! There are plenty of national parks and camping locations on the mainland, but you can also embark on a more remote expedition and camp on one of the Whitsunday Islands! From the famous Whitehaven Beach, to the more secluded campsites on Hook Island or South Molle Island, spending a long weekend amidst the wilderness is the perfect option for nature lovers!
3. Indulge in Airlie Beach's Nightlife
The October public holiday in the Whitsundays is the perfect time to let loose and check out the nightlife in Airlie Beach! From fancy cocktail bars, to pumping nightclubs, to party boats, to themed nights and eateries, there is lots to do in Airlie Beach with an extra day off of work. Treat yourself to some fun out on the town! If you're not a night owl, you can also treat yourself to a nice meal at one of Airlie's best cafes or smoothie bars.
4. Go Skydiving
Why not jump out of a plane this long weekend? One of the best ways to truly experience the Whitsunday Islands is from above. Not only do you get to enjoy a scenic flight up to 15,000 feet, you also get to jump out and free fall above the stunning region. Sounds fun right?! Face your fears and book in a skydive with Skydive Australia. Trust us, you definitely won’t forget it and it will make your trip to the beautiful Whitsundays even more unforgettable!
5. Relax on the famous Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in the Whitsundays and is constantly teeming with keen tourists. The beach is famous due to it’s beautiful silica sands and turquoise waters. From jumping aboard a day trip, to planning a camping adventure, to chartering your own boat, we’ve got plenty of options to get you to Whitehaven.
Make this long weekend one to remember by spending the day exploring the beach, hiking up to the Hill Inlet Lookout, snorkelling on the tropical coral reef, paddle boarding, sunbathing, sipping on refreshing bevvies and feasting on gourmet lunches!
What's on in Airlie Beach this Long Weekend?
Airlie Beach Markets on the foreshore
Time: 7am - 1pm
Price: Free
Every Saturday, vendors set up shop along the Airlie Beach foreshore for the Whitsunday Lions Community Markets and the October Long Weekend will be no different! Spend your morning browsing and sifting through local crafts, vintage finds, and unique souvenirs. Make a day of the weekly event and enjoy the live music and the variety of tempting food trucks!
Live Music at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
Time: 12pm - 6pm
Price: Free
The Pub at Airlie Beach Hotel will be pumping out electrifying live music on Saturday and Sunday, with performances from AC/DC tribute band, 'Dirty Deeds'. From 2pm to 5:40pm you can catch Dirty Deeds perform their Bon Scott vs Brian Johnson show - but be ready to have your socks rocked off! Entry is free but this event is going to be busy, so Airlie Beach Hotel recommends booking a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
