Things To Do In The Whitsundays For Families
The Whitsundays is the ultimate holiday destination for all ages, whether you're a seasoned sailor or a shallow-end splasher. That's what makes it such a popular holiday destination for families! Whether it's exploring the Great Barrier Reef through a glass bottom boat, playing on the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, sitting on the back of a jetski, or paddling in the Airlie Beach lagoon, there's plenty to keep kids and parents equally entertained!
Here are our top recommendations for families coming to the Whitsundays!
1. Visit The Outer Reef
The Whitsundays are found within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and are a few hours' boat ride from the Outer Reef, which is different than the inner fringing reefs. You can enjoy a fun family day to the Outer Reef and take advantage of plenty of fun activities on a pontoon located on Hardy Reef! From here you can snorkel from the edge of the pontoon, check out the underwater viewing chamber, go on a semi-submersible boat, or relax in the shade back on deck! It's a great place for the whole family and gives you the freedom to enjoy several activities from a stationary platform.
2. Sail The Islands
The Whitsundays are one of the best places to sail in the world! Take the whole family along and enjoy the thrill and excitement of real sailing in one of Australia's most beautiful destinations. Day trips that are great for the family include the Australian classic Southern Cross and the fun tallship Providence, among several others that hoist the sails daily and tour the Whitsunday waters!
3. Spend Time At Airlie Beach Lagoon
Airlie Beach Lagoon is the gem of Airlie Beach. Free to use and open to the public, it's a great way to spend a day or two in Airlie Beach! The man-made lagoon is located on the foreshore and has great views of the harbour and surrounding areas. You can have the ocean experience, without the worry! There are lifeguards on duty during open hours and facilities such as bathrooms and change rooms.
4. Go On A Family Hike Or Walk
The Whitsundays has many great hikes and walking paths of different lengths and difficulties that offer a good way to spend family time! Take the family along and enjoy trekking through the bush, exploring along the foreshore or walking on the boardwalk! There are several bushwalks on the mainland and islands, as well as easier options such as walking tracks and paved pathways, making this outdoor activity suitable for everyone.
5. Go On An Overnight Boat Trip
There are many overnight trips that visit the Whitsunday Islands to explore and enjoy the beauty they have on offer. With snorkelling, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, scuba diving and more on the agenda, there is a tour suited for every family group! Overnight sailing tours include small-group sailing ship Prima, action-packed Entice and the majestic Alexander Stewart, plus many other family-friendly trips you can choose from!
6. Day Trip Around The Island Resorts
One of the famous drawcards for the Whitsundays has forever been the stunning Island resorts. The best part is, you now don't even need to break the bank on a few nights accommodation to enjoy the island life. The Three Island Cruise makes that not only possible but affordable too. This family-friendly cruise features Daydream Island, Hamilton Island and also gives you a few hours relaxing at the south end of Whitehaven Beach. If you're short on time and would like to make the most of it, this is the option for you.
