Why You Should Go To The Whitsundays
10 reasons why you should visit the Whitsundays
Located on the central coast of sunny Queensland and set on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays is one of the best spots to explore the natural wonder from — with just as much fun to be had on the islands as out on the reef! Across those 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays, there’s something for everyone. Hiking, sailing and diving for the adventure enthusiasts, and fine-dining, sunbathing and partying for the pleasure-seekers. Check out our top ten reasons for visiting the Whitsundays — not that anybody ever needs an excuse to take a holiday!
1) Eternal summer
We don’t call Queensland the Sunshine State for nothing. With an average year-round temp of 27.5°C, the Whitsundays is a holiday destination that doesn’t hinge on the seasons — the only season here is summer! So, whether you’re a Melbournian wanting to escape the blistering winter blues or a Bris-babe simply looking to enjoy the best of what your backyard has to offer, the pure white sands of the Whitsundays are the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the sun’s kiss.
2) Perfect for a family holiday
Holidays spent with family are core memories, and what better backdrop for memories that you’ll cherish for life than the Whitsundays? There are a plethora of family-friendly activities to keep the whole crew happy. Take the little ones for a stinger-free paddle in the Airlie Beach Lagoon, set sail for the day to explore the islands, or even hire a private charter to get around so you can kick back and enjoy the ocean breeze with loved ones while your trusted captain takes the wheel.
3) There’s always a place to party
Everybody has a fantasy about cracking a bottle of bub on a yacht surrounded by beautiful islands and bronzed babes — that’s just a day in the life at the Whitsundays. If you’re flying solo, be sure to delve into the Airlie Beach nightlife to make some friends. Start your evening at Boatys for the perfect golden hour Insta-moment, then walk on the wild side at Mama Africa’s after the sun sinks below the horizon. And don’t forget to check out our backpacker budget-friendly tips for getting the party started on the overnight boat trip of your dreams.
4) Foodie holiday
It’s not a holiday unless you come home a few kilos heavier. Frequently playing host to A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah and Taylor Swift, Hamilton Island has the crème de la crème of restaurants to match A-list tastebuds. Coca Chu, Tako and One Tree Hill are great for a few drinks over share style dishes, whilst Sails, Manta Ray and Pool Terrace will fill the family up with large servings and buffet options (and kids eat free!).
5) A hiker’s paradise
Some of the best vantage points of the islands are accessible by foot. Experienced hikers can sink into the depths of the rainforests thriving with hoop pines and giant grass trees before emerging to panoramic views of the Great Barrier Marine Park along the Whitsunday Cairn Track, or climb the summits of the Whitsunday Peak Track to share the sky with sea-eagles soaring overhead. For those seeking to reap the same reward at a more leisurely pace and level, get your endorphins pumping with a sunny stroll along the Solway Circuit Track or walk in the footprints of the traditional land owners at Hook Island’s Ngaro Cultural Site. To make the most out of your hiking shoes, let Powerplay Trails be your guide.
6) It’s affordable to see the Whitsunday Islands
Being one of the most popular destinations for yachting in the Southern Hemisphere, the region is frequently lorded as a millionaire’s playground. But don’t let the seemingly costly prospect of holidaying here scare you off, the Islands are accessible to pockets of all depths!
We have year-round deals and last-minute discounts to help you get there without breaking the bank, as well as package deals so you get the best bang for your buck when it comes to enjoying island activities. Deals are also in abundance during the winter months when the average temperature is still a blissful 22°C, so be sure to keep an eye on our specials!
7) You really do deserve that holiday
The past few years have been a rollercoaster of snap lockdowns and cancelled holidays. If we were doctors with medical degrees you can rest assured that our prescribed remedy to the tumult would be a cocktail on the beach, a snorkel on the reef, and an adventure on the seas. This is your sign to make up for lost time with an unforgettable time! With the holiday season approaching, think about giving yourself and your family the gift of a lifetime — escape reality, reconnect with nature, and help your kids meet the IRL Nemo on the Great Barrier Reef! Holiday mode: on.
8) The Great Barrier Reef beckons
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet, so enormous (bigger than the UK, Switzerland and Holland combined) that it’s virtually impossible to visit every square foot of it. Luckily for you, we’ve got all the insider tips and tricks to seeing its prettiest nooks and crannies. Beginner divers can explore the underwater playground of Nemo and his clownfish posse at Luncheon Bay, whilst the depths of Bait Reef and Hardy Reef await more experienced divers.
9) Discover rich Indigenous histories & connections
As well as a bounty of endless fun and relaxation, the Whitsundays also has a rich and deeply interesting Indigenous history — in fact, some of Eastern Australia’s oldest archeological evidence of Indigenous life can be found within the islands.
The coastline is the traditional home to the Ngaro people, also known as the ‘Canoe People’ for obvious reasons. Much like the nautical lifestyles residents and vacationers enjoy in the area today, the Ngaro people made their living from the bays and ocean.
From sacred, ancient cave paintings to interactive historic walks, visitors can connect with and reflect on the region’s Indigenous past and post-colonial present.
10) Work on that tan and update your Insta!
The Southern Hemisphere is finally slipping back into its warmer months. It’s time to retire your Bondi Sands tanning kit to the cupboard under the sink and let the sun wash over you while you relax on the pure silica sands of Whitehaven beach, Australia’s 3rd most Instagrammed location. For those of you eager to inundate your friends’ feeds with the Whitsundays’ roads less travelled, discover the secluded shores of Betty’s Beach or steal an intimate butterfly kiss at Butterfly Bay Waterfall (which teems with the winged beauties in the wet season).
For more local insight into the best spots around town and all you need to know about getting around, be sure to check out our Official Guide to the Whitsundays and Airlie Beach!
