Non Touristy Things To Do In The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays is a very touristy destination. With 74 tropical islands and the Great Barrier Reef being the biggest Whitsunday attractions, it's no wonder people from all over the world want to tick the region off their travel bucket-lists! If you're like everyone else and want to visit the tropical paradise but you're not big on crowds and would rather blend in like a local, then this article is for you. From exclusive bars to intimate diving adventures, there are plenty of non touristy activities you can do in the Whitsundays!
Book a private charter and freely explore the Whitsunday Islands
When visiting the Whitsundays, most people choose to book guided tours through the islands. But if you’re wanting to escape the crowds, booking a private charter is your key! Explore the 74 Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, and the reef at your own leisure, without being on a constricted time frame. Choosing a private charter means you'll have your own crew, lunch catered for, and the freedom to choose your fellow passengers. Choose from a range of private charters we have available.
Top private charters for an exclusive Whitsundays experience
Go for a Whitsundays sunset sail
Sunset sails can be a great way to get out on the water without facing heavy crowds. As the sun begins to set over Airlie Beach and the surrounding Whitsunday Islands, it brings with it a serene atmosphere and a gorgeous golden hue. Sunset sails usually take smaller numbers out for an dreamy cruise along the Airlie Beach shoreline, complete with bottles of bubbly and delicious nibbles. For a quieter sailing experience, a sunset cruise is just the thing.
Looking to immerse yourself more in the local culture? Every Wednesday evening, the Whitsunday Sailing Club holds twilight sailing races where people get together and socially race. Located in Airlie Beach, the evenings are directed towards those who are eager to learn to sail or would like to try something new. Plus, it's a great way to meet the locals and learn more about the area. You'll get to hop aboard one of the sailing boats and have the opportunity to be a crew member for the evening while racing through the bays. You'll have to purchase a day pass which is only $10 and allows you membership to the club for the day. There are limited spots available so best to get to the sailing club at 3:00pm when it starts!
Visit the local beach
Blend in with the locals who frequent Boathaven Beach whether they're out walking their dogs or taking post-work afternoon dips. The beach is popular amongst those who live in Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays not only because it's Airlie's most pristine beach, but it's one of the only places in the area which allows for dogs to run off-leash. It also has swimming nets that protect you from most of the deadly jellyfish during stinger season, and is located conveniently close to town. Grab your towel, a book and sunscreen and set yourself up for a day on the beach.
Take a hike up Mount Rooper
We are convinced that if you ask a tourist in the Whitsundays where Mount Rooper is, they will blankly stare back at you with no clue to the answer. Mount Rooper is a hidden gem for locals. It's a mountain, located a 10 minute drive away from Airlie Beach, is perfect for hiking and offers spectacular views of Shute Harbour and the Whitsunday Islands. It takes an hour return on foot and is best enjoyed in the mornings or afternoons when the weather is cooler. As it is a little bit out of the way, most people visiting the area don't tend to venture too far this way. Luckily, for you wanting to escape the crowds, Mount Rooper is where you can go!
Book an overnight diving trip
Another great non-touristy thing to do in the Whitsundays is to book yourself onto an intimate diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef on board Summer Jo. Sure, you might be paired with other travellers but this diving trip isn't your typical tourist adventure. With day trips and overnight outer reef expeditions available, you'll get to explore lesser-known reefs in the Whitsundays, scuba dive with a kaleidoscope of tropical marine life, and sail between the enchanting islands.
Luxurious dinner and drinks in Airlie Beach
Skip the busy backpacker pubs and head to one of Airlie Beach's more intimate dinner and drink spots - the ones that locals actually go to when they want great cocktails and even better views.
Anchor Bar is a favourite amongst locals in the Whitsundays, tucked away, in the Whitsunday Terraces Apartments, it's rare that tourists find it. Anchor Bar is beloved among locals is because it offers sweeping views of Airlie Beach and the Coral Sea. That, combined with mouth-watering food, delicious cocktails, and pool and spa access make it a go-to for a lazy afternoon or sunset session away from the crowds.
For something more refined, Elementa Bar is a luxurious new addition to Airlie Beach that’s fast becoming the talk of the town. Nestled on Airlie’s hillside, Elementa boasts panoramic ocean views, chic decor, handcrafted cocktails, and tasty share plates. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or pre-dinner drinks before heading out to town.
Those seeking a more central spot for dinner and drinks should check out Paradiso, an outstanding waterfront restaurant that serves up European-inspired pastas, gourmet pizzas, and classic Aussie cuisine. With cocktails, live music, and a great lookout over the Airlie Beach foreshore, it's no wonder this spot is a local-favourite.
