Should I Move To The Whitsundays?
Contemplating that big leap where you pack up your things, quit your job and relocating to a tropical paradise? Then the Whitsundays has your name all over it! Here, at Sailing Whitsundays, we are firm believers that it's one of the best decisions you will ever make!
Just like many of us who reside in the Whitsundays, we all felt drawn to the region for different reasons. The weather, the lifestyle, the people, or the close proximity to tropical islands were all contributing factors that came to mind when we chose to move - and I'm sure they too are what you're thinking about. Today, we are SO grateful we made those decisions to pack up and leave our old lives and start fresh in this insanely beautiful location. Waking up in the warmth to the sight of turquoise waters, palm trees and islands is something you just can't get sick of.
We are here to answer all your questions and can confirm that you won't regret making the move!
Where in the Whitsundays do people live?
Most people reside around Airlie Beach. Surrounding suburbs include Cannonvale, Jubilee Pocket, Mandalay, Woodwark, Flametree and Shute Harbour. Other regions in the Whitsundays where people live include Hamilton Island (mainly those who work on the island live there in the staff accommodation), Proserpine (a nearby town), and Bowen (an hour north of Airlie).
Does Airlie Beach stay warm all year round?
Typically yes, compared to the bottom half of Australia. Living in the Whitsundays does feel like a never-ending summer dream. However, the tropical town gets a cool snap from time to time throughout the winter months. Luckily they don't last too long and compared to places like Victoria, it's not really that cold. You'll eventually become so well-adjusted to the warmth that suddenly anything below 20 degrees Celcius feels like 2 degrees... that's how we feel anyway!
You might need to throw on a jumper and a pair of jeans occasionally but it’s not necessary to fill your suitcase with a whole heap of winter clothing as it's likely it will sit in your cupboard for months on end.
How likely is it to find work in the Whitsundays?
The Whitsundays is a major tourist destination and is flooded with backpackers and holiday-makers which means that there are endless job opportunities for work. Popular jobs to pick up around the area include hospitality, retail, tourism related jobs (like selling tours in stores or working on the boats), or farm work! Hamilton Island constantly have jobs going too. You can visit the careers page on their website to see what positions are currently vacant.
Jobs can be found via Facebook groups, on websites such as Seek or by simply wandering around and looking out for 'Now Hiring' signs in cafe or store windows.
What about making friends?
The Whitsundays is filled with like-minded beings who are keen to mingle and meet new people. The locals are kind and friendly and they do make you feel right at home. As the region is a tourist town, new people are constantly swarming the streets which means there is always a happy buzz in the air! From van-lifers to backpacker, there are always people travelling solo keen to make friends in the area.
You could even pop into one of the hostels along the main street and see what's going on. Or go out to Magnums or the Airlie Beach Hotel on a weekend night and you're bound to make an entire new group of friends! Another alternative is downloading the Bumble BFF app, it's an app that connects like-minded strangers in the area. It's similar to a dating app but think of it as just for finding friends rather than partners!
What is there to do in the Whitsundays?
Opportunities are endless when it comes to fun in the Whitsundays. Lucky for you, our entire website is dedicated to fun activities and tours you can do solo, with new friends, or any family members that come to visit! From day trips to Whitehaven Beach to Skydiving to Jetski tours, there is no doubt that your days off will ever be boring (I mean how could they?)
Other awesome activities to do in the Whitsundays include hiking up Mount Rooper or Honeyeater, visiting local cafes, restaurants are bars, relaxing by the lagoon, shopping or exploring the islands! Check out this article of the Top 10 Things to do in the Whitundays!
So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself up here already!
If you want to find out more info about moving to Airlie Beach, jump online and chat to our friendly team or call +61 74914 2425!
We will happily convince you it's the best decision you could make!