Valentine's Day 2024 In The Whitsundays
Ah, Valentine’s Day, the 14th of February 2024... You either love it or you hate it, but it still comes around every year regardless. If you’re a couple looking for something to do on the most romantic day of the year in the Whitsundays, there are plenty of options to choose from, and if you’re single then you’ll be pleased to hear there are ample opportunities for you too in this social and lively area!
Whether you're in a relationship, or you're single and wanting to mingle, here is what you can do for Valentine's Day 2024!
Whitehaven Beach
Couple:
Regularly voted the best beach in the world, Whitehaven Beach’s unmatched natural beauty is a must-see in the region. Lovebirds looking for something a little extra special can book a scenic helicopter flight and after taking in the wonders of Hill Inlet from above, actually land on Whitehaven for an intimate romantic champagne lunch for two! Book a tour that takes you over heart reef as well and you’ll get extra romance points.
Single:
If you’re single don’t fret about not having anyone to experience Whitehaven with - Put that ice-cream down and book on an overnight party boat to meet other like-minded, single travellers! All overnight charters visit Whitehaven, but you don’t want to get stuck on a boat with only couples onboard… We recommend New Horizon for maximum fun and plenty of activities, or Atlantic Clipper that offers an on-deck spa, perfect for striking up conversations! Read more about overnight options for solo travellers here.
Sailing
Couple:
Sailing is another incredible way to experience the Whitsundays, and with the tranquil natural backdrop of the islands, this could easily be one of the best ways to spend Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking for a stylish, intimate monohull, we recommend Blizzard, as it's a lovely combination between authentic sailing and modern comforts. For a comfortable stylish catamaran, Whitsunday Getaway offers large appointed double cabins and only takes 8 people.
Single:
Don’t worry Lone Rangers, sailing the Whitsundays doesn’t have to be a 7th wheel situation-In fact, there are plenty of charter boat tours designed with you in mind! These action-packed adventure sailing tours can cater for up 50 people in some cases, and all offer a visit to Whitehaven and snorkelling!. Apollo Maxi was an actual ex-racer, so she’s built for speed, New Horizon offers sailing in addition to plenty of onboard activities, and SV Whitehaven is a sailing eco-tour with a knowledgable crew that offer free informative kayak tours!
Great Barrier Reef
Couples:
While flying over the outer Great Barrier Reef is certainly jaw-dropping, if you really want to “wow” your partner this Valentine’s Day, why not treat them to a once in a lifetime opportunity to sleep underwater on the Great Barrier Reef? These incredible ReefSuites are perfect for couples, and you can have an incredible night under the sea that will be sure to set the mood.
Singles:
There’s hope for you too! Cruise Whitsundays also offer a glamping option on their Reefsleep tour, Where you can stay overnight on the outer reef pontoon in double swags and sleep under the stars. Taking up to 30 people on this experience will ensure you have ample opportunity to meet other travellers when socialising in the evening. An added bonus is getting the whole pontoon to yourselves in the afternoon and the next morning!
Accommodation
Couples:
The town of Airlie Beach, which is the gateway to the Whitsundays, offers many accommodation options, from hostels to luxury 5 star resorts. The newly refurbished Coral Sea Marina Resort and Peppers Airlie Beach offer beautifully appointed rooms with spa baths and incredible views of the coral sea, meaning a bubble bath for two with champagne is definitely on the menu. If you’re looking for a more affordable option without compromising luxury, there are plenty of AirBnBs in the area, such as this penthouse!
Single:
Without a doubt, hostels are abundant in Airlie Beach, and this can be one of the best ways to meet other people. Dorms aren’t the only option though, as private rooms are quite affordable! If you can stretch your budget a little further, there are plenty of reasonably priced AirBnBs around town, such as these-Perfect for someone who wants to leave the socialising in town and get a good night’s rest!
Dining and drinks
Couples:
With a plethora of romantic spots around the region, couples won’t have any trouble finding the perfect place to dine on Valentine’s Day. Sorrento has a beautiful upstairs balcony dining, and is known for its glorious sunsets. The Rocks at Coral Sea Marina Resort offers breathtaking views and poolside dining right next to the water. Northerlies is a unique and excellent experience just out of town, and even offers complimentary courtesy shuttles! For after-dinner drinks, you’ll enjoy the atmosphere and location at Anchor Bar up the hill from the Airlie Main Street, or Breeze Bar for an intimate cocktail setting on the esplanade.
Singles:
This is where Valentine’s Day can seem particularly daunting, but don’t worry - There are plenty of places in Airlie that offer single-themed dinners and nighttime events! Boaty’s and Beaches usually offer meal deals, and follow up with events like ‘nuts and bolts’ parties, perfect for breaking the ice and meeting other singles. If you aren’t fussed by dining solo, there are plenty of places on the main street so you can stay in the hub of things. Our favourites include Little Vegas, which offers a unique food and cocktail menu, and The Deck for incredible pizzas and vibe. As Airlie is known for its appealing nightlife, keep an eye out for more single-themed events at places like Magnums, and later on in the evening, Paddy Shenanigans, Boom Nightclub, and Mama Africa.
