Whitsundays Named Best Adventure Destination Of 2024
The Whitsundays has been named the best Adventure Destination in Australia at the 2024 Adventure Tourism Awards. On Thursday, the 7th of November 2024, the Adventure Tourism Awards were held in the Gold Coast to celebrate the thriving businesses, experiences, and places that make Australia such as welcoming tourist destination.
It’s no surprise that the Whitsundays topped the list of the best adventure destinations, as this gorgeous area is undoubtedly a highlight of visiting Australia! From sailing through idyllic islands, to feeling the silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, to diving in the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays boast a seemingly endless list of amazing adventures for travellers.
What are the Adventure Tourism Awards?
The Adventure Tourism Awards is an annual ceremony that commemorates the outstanding efforts of the tourism industry in Australia and New Zealand. Tourism is such an important part of these countries, as the natural beauty and rich cultural experiences here are too good not to share with the world.
This event is dedicated to praising the local tour operators, travel agents, and industry professionals who work so hard to elevate the tourism sector in Oceania’s breathtaking destinations. From guided tours and transport, to accommodations and impeccable customer service, these awards recognise all the behind-the-scenes labour and creativity that help craft the best travel experiences Down Under.
The Adventure Tourism Awards 2024 in the Gold Coast
Awards presented at the Adventure Tourism Awards include:
- Best Travel Agent
- Best Adventure Destination
- Best Transport
- Best Accommodation
- Best Multi Day Tour/Activity
- Best Day Tour/Activity
- Eco-Tourism Award
- And more!
Members of the Whitsunday Tourism industry accepting the award for Best Adventure Destination
The Whitsundays Win Best Adventure Destination of 2024
The award for Best Adventure Destination in Australia and New Zealand goes to the Whitsundays! Those who have experienced the magic of the Whitsunday Islands themselves will not be surprised by this outcome, as it’s a truly spectacular place. Between the 74 tropical islands of the Whitsundays National Park, the sprawling corals of the Great Barrier Reef, and the diverse mainland amenities and activities of Airlie Beach, the area has much to offer.
Let’s take a closer look at why the Whitsundays are a perfect fit for the Best Adventure Destination of 2024!
The Sailing Whitsundays Team at the Adventure Tourism Awards 2024
The 10 Best Adventures to have in the Whitsundays
There are so many life-changing adventures you can have in the Whitsundays, thanks to the diverse landscapes, welcoming climate, and dedicated tour operators. Though this list only scratches the surface of the Whitsundays’ charms, here are 10 of the best adventures to add to your Australian bucket list.
Planning A Trip To The Whitsundays? Don't Forget To Book Your Tours In Advance To Avoid Missing Out!
1. World-class sailing on the Coral Sea
The Whitsundays have some of the world’s best sailing conditions, with calm turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery. Particularly in August and September of the dry season, you can find glassy conditions and dreamy views on the Coral Sea. Experience the thrill of sailing in the Whitsundays with day sails, multi-day sailing tours, private charters, or sailing courses!
2. Scuba diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef
Nestled in the Coral Sea just east of the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef has incredible underwater ecosystems just waiting to be explored. Venture to the Outer Reef for snorkelling and scuba diving with the vibrant marine life, or explore the fringing inner reefs that branch off of the islands.
3. Water sports and beach days at Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach is often regarded as the best beach in the world. With velvety silica sand, warm sapphire water, and the iconic swirling sands of Hill Inlet, this beach looks like something out of a dream. Join a day tour or overnight tour to Whitehaven Beach so you can experience this postcard-worthy beach for yourself!
4. Epic hikes through tropical rainforests
The mountainous terrain and lush rainforests of the Whitsunday region are a hiker’s paradise! There are so many amazing hiking trails on the mainland and on the Whitsunday Islands, most of which offer gorgeous views and the chance to immerse yourself in nature. Conway National Park, South Molle Island, Hamilton Island, and Whitsunday Island are some top hiking locations to check out.
5. Unique wildlife encounters
The Whitsunday Islands and mainland have so many intriguing wildlife experiences to offer visitors. Head to Cape Hillsborough to see kangaroos play on the beach at sunrise, or join a crocodile-spotting cruise on the Proserpine River. Visit the Wildlife Park at Hamilton Island, or mingle with local creatures at Bredl’s Wild Farm.
6. Spotting ocean giants in a Whale Heritage Site
Another must-do wildlife encounter in the Whitsundays is whale watching! Thanks to the monumental efforts in protecting and conserving the humpback whales that migrate to the area every year, the Whitsundays have been named a Whale Heritage Site. Book a sailing tour or private charter to spot these playful giants frolicking through the ocean between June and October.
7. Breathtaking scenic flights
Admire the majestic landscapes of the Whitsundays from the sky on a scenic flight! There is nothing quite like a birds-eye view of the turquoise waters, forested islands, and sprawling reefs of the Whitsundays. A scenic flight provides guests with the most iconic aerial views of Hill Inlet and the famous Heart Reef.
8. Remote island camping adventures
Those looking to escape the noise of modern life can embark on remote island camping adventures in the Whitsundays. Hop on a boat with just the essentials and venture to stunning locations like Whitsunday Island, Hook Island, or South Molle Island. You can spend the night at a wilderness campground, watch the sunset over the ocean, and allow your soul to reconnect with the natural world.
9. Luxurious tropical island getaways
Escape to one of the Whitsundays’ tropical islands for an adventure you and your loved ones will never forget. Though many of the Whitsunday Islands are uninhabited, some boast luxury resorts where you can nestle in and experience the laid-back pace of island life. Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Hayman Island, and Long Island are just a few of the top islands with highly-rated resorts in the Whitsundays.
10. Customisable adventures on private charters
For the ultimate Whitsunday adventure, curate your own itinerary on a private charter! Whether you want one action-packed day or a multi-day experience, private charters provide you with an intimate ocean getaway catered to your needs. Choose from affordable day boats, sleek catamarans, impressive superyachts, and more.
