Solo Travelling in the Whitsundays
Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays is the ideal destination for all types of travellers, particularly those touring around on their own. The Whitsundays provides a great place to travel and if you're alone, it's good to know it's also a great place to meet like-minded travellers.
The bustling village-like town of Airlie Beach is not only the gateway to the 74 Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, but is also a hub for tourists to stay and play before heading out on a boat trip. It is also very accommodating with plenty of hostels to stay at or just hang around, as well as travel agencies to indulge in local knowledge and ample dining options to suit all budgets and tastes.
As a solo traveller, you will be able to indulge in all of this, meet new people as well as relax and prepare for your upcoming trip!
Where to stay?
A great option for solo travellers is to stay at any of the hostels located in the main street. These are great options for those on a budget and is a great place to meet new people. It's a good idea to book ahead of time, as they can book up in advance. The main hostels on the main street are Nomads, xBase Backpackers, Magnums and Beaches. They all have common areas, pubs, bars or pools that are all great for hanging out at the meeting other travellers.
How to get around?
Everything you'll need while you are in Airlie Beach is within walking distance of most accommodations. If you are staying on the main street of Airlie Beach, within steps you will find restaurants, ATMs, bottle shops, grocery stores, hostels, hotels and both marinas. If you are staying in Cannonvale or Jubilee Pocket, there are cabs and car rentals available within Airlie Beach. If you are flying in, you will need to get transport from either airport. From the Whitsunday Coast Airport, you can get a shuttle, cab or bus into Airlie Beach, and from Hamilton Island Airport you must get a ferry transport to the mainland.
Where to dine?
Take a stroll down the main street of Airlie Beach where you will see a huge range of dining options, from fast food, pubs, sit-down restaurants and quick takeaways. There is something for every taste, with Little Vegas Burger Bar, Lovely India for Indian food, Breeze Bar for cocktails and tapas, and plenty of places for pub-style foods, including most of the bars and hostels.
What tours?
Prima - This small group sailing vessel offers a relaxing yet social tour and takes a mixed group of just 12 guests. The mixed crowd offers a great place for meeting new people, all while getting to explore the beautiful Whitsundays.
Powerplay - Powerplay is a power catamaran that takes 16 passengers at a time for an action-packed tour. Powerplay has an onboard spa, sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards in addition to its full itinerary that includes snorkelling and a visit to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. It has both shared and private accommodation, meaning you will find a blended group on board.
Whitsunday Adventurer - This catamaran features clear kayaks, SUP boards and a hot tub with just 12 guests. With several accommodation types and a mixed crowd, Adventurer is great for the solo traveller looking to meet new people while avoiding the crowds.
Solway Lass - As a traditional sailing boat, Solway Lass offers a unique experience around the islands over 2 days. With both shared and private accommodation, Solway Lass attracts a mixed crowd. The beautiful traditional sailing boat offers a great platform to relax and discover the Whitsundays while making new friends as a solo traveller!
Atlantic Clipper - With 53 guests in total, this fun mega boat offers a variety of watersports including SUP boards, megaslides, and an on deck spa. This party boat offers one of the most social atmosphere for travelling around the Whitsunday Islands and has only shared accommodation, making it a top choice for solo travellers and backpackers.
New Horizon - This fun, social tour has 32 passengers and features an array of watersports, including a megaslide, SUP boards and snorkelling. With only shared accommodation on board, New Horizon is a popular choice for solo travellers and backpackers.
On Ice - A comfortable and modern catamaran taking only 10 guests in total. This tour features all the latest water sports equipment including kayaks, stand-up paddle boards & more. Suitable for just about everyone!
Entice - Sister vessel to On Ice. A comfortable and modern catamaran taking only 10 guests in total. This tour features all the latest water sports equipment including kayaks, stand-up paddle boards & more. Suitable for just about everyone!
Blizzard - A comfortable, modern and sleek sailing boat that offers plenty of activities and a great sailing experience. Taking only 10 guests, this is a small group sailing tour suitable for just about everyone with a sense of adventure.
