What is in Airlie Beach?
Heading out on an overnight sailing trip to the world-renowned Whitsundays from Airlie Beach, or planning on spending a few days sipping cocktails in Airlie's lively, seaside streets? If you’ve never travelled to the Whitsundays region before, you may have no idea what to expect regarding shopping, dining, and transport. Sit back and relax, as the locals fill you in on all you need to know about Airlie Beach!
The town of Airlie Beach is a ‘village-type’ region, with an authentic community atmosphere that is steadily increasing by size and population. Over the last few years Airlie Beach has received the main street makeover and upgrade, numerous accommodation and retail developments, and now boasts three marinas for the ever-expanding marine industry.
As the gateway to the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach generally attracts eager groups of families and friends throughout the year who are departing for day and overnight tours, in addition to attracting a variety of backpackers and students who are seeking a vibrant and relaxing tropical holiday. Make sure to check out our Locals Guide to Airlie Beach, to plan your dream itinerary!
Airports
Air travel is the most convenient and popular option when travelling to Airlie Beach. Two airports are in close proximity to Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine or the Hamilton Island Airport. A variety of connection busses and taxis are available to pre-book or organise once you have landed.
Accommodation
Ranging from exclusive romantic hotels, family-friendly apartments, to lively hostels, Airlie Beach boasts plenty of accommodation options to suit your budget and travelling style. Check out our guide on Where to Stay at Airlie Beach, to find the perfect fit for you!
We recommend staying closer to the main street of Airlie, to have the convenience of restaurants, bars, and transport at your doorstep! Or if you’re eager to escape the crowds on your getaway, there are a range of accommodation options located just outside of the precinct.
Marinas
Airlie Beach has expanded its marinas over the last few years, to make way for the growing Whitsundays marine industry. Coral Sea Marina is generally the departure location for most of the day and overnight tours to the Whitsundays fringing reefs and picturesque islands. Additionally, the Port of Airlie Marina and Shute Harbour Marina is located within the Airlie Beach region.
Restaurants
Home to restaurants offering a multitude of fresh, local seafood and dozens of bars with extensive cocktail lists, there are dining options to suit every budget and craving at Airlie Beach. From romantic tables overlooking the marina, family-friendly outdoor settings, or bustling pubs with live music, it can be difficult to decide on where to dine during your stay. See what entices your taste buds on our list of Top 10 Places to Eat in Airlie Beach!
In addition to the large variety of dining options, there is a centrally located Woolworths and numerous take-away options for those travellers eager to dine back at their accommodation.
Retail Outlets
If you’re eager for a day of shopping, the main street of Airlie Beach beholds several local, boutique-style retail shops and large surf-wear brands such as Ripcurl and City Beach. As well as retail outlets, the town offers bottle shops, a chemist, convenience stores, and general stores. Just a 5-minute drive away from Airlie Beach, in the town of Cannonvale, is two larger shopping centres.
Transport
A majority of visitors to Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays arrive by air travel, however, there is no need to worry about getting around during your getaway, with multiple transport options to choose from! Whilst the town of Airlie is generally easy to get around by foot, there is a fleet of taxis on hand, Tuk Tuk rides, and Whitsunday Transit for bus transport to surrounding destinations and towns.
Health
In the case of medical urgencies during your getaway to Airlie Beach there are two chemists, a doctor, dentists, optometrists, pathologists, podiatrists, and chiropractors located in the town. If you are eager to freshen up your roots or nails during your visit, there are hairdressers and nail saloons located in the main street also!
