Picture-perfect paradise
The Whitsundays is an archipelago of 74 tropical islands, just off the Queensland coast, next to the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a picture-perfect paradise – like a scene straight off a postcard. It’s an exciting prospect for any traveller – a visual feast that will leave you giggling and giddy, in a state of utter astonishment at its beauty.
People travel from all over the world to see the Whitsundays and the stunning white sands of Whitehaven Beach and the surreal beauty of Heart Reef. There’s also the matter of luxury hotels, all of which offer visitors a once in a lifetime experience, with breathtaking views and unrivalled indulgence.
If you’re feeling flush, check out qualia, a mesmerising place that offers visitors the opportunity to stay in the lap of luxury, with the Great Barrier Reef off in the distance. The reef also protects the islands from large swells, which makes it ideal for sailing, swimming, snorkelling and relaxing, with plenty of secluded beaches and hidden bays also waiting to be explored.
How to get there
The easiest way to reach the Whitsunday Islands is by plane. The largest inhabited island of the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island, has its own airport, which is known as the Great Barrier Reef Airport. Directs flight here arrive from Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne.
Alternatively, fly into nearby Whitsunday Coast Airport, on the mainland near the popular coastal town of Airlie Beach, known as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. From Airlie Beach you can board a ferry to the islands. Or, if you’re a high flyer (pardon the pun), you can take a helicopter transfer to whichever island you choose.
Fall hard for Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most spectacular and sought-after holiday destinations, famous for its pristine white beaches and a kaleidoscope of coral and colourful marine life. The island is the perfect base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
There's plenty to do on Hamilton Island, with an array of bars and restaurants, as well as cultural activities – not to mention the abundance of water sports that the island also offers.
For sailing enthusiasts, check out Hamilton Island Yacht Club, home of Hamilton Island Race Week – Australia’s largest offshore yachting regatta. For golfers, the Hamilton Island Golf Club offers a thoroughly unique golfing experience, famous for being Australia’s only 18-hole championship course on its own island.
Prepare to be wowed by Whitehaven Beach
No trip to the Whitsundays would be complete without a trip to Whitehaven Beach, which is widely considered to be the most beautiful beach on earth.
Whitehaven is located on the uninhabited Whitsunday Island and is only accessible by seaplane, helicopter or boat. Its beauty is surreal, with unbelievably white sand living alongside dreamlike turquoise water.
Don't miss Hill Inlet at the northern end of the beach. When the tide shifts, this shallow inlet comes alive with patterns created by the stunning fusion of white sand and turquoise water. Day trips to Whitehaven leave from Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach. This is a must-do for visitors to the Whitsundays.
