The Whitsunday Islands are amongst the most utopian and evocative destinations on the planet. It is a world-renowned yachting hotspot and learning to sail here is a life-changing experience.
The easiest way to get to Airlie Beach is through Proserpine Airport (also known as Whitsunday Coast Airport). Grab your rental car from the airport and drive a short 30 minutes into town. The airport connects the Whitsunday Coast to Brisbane, which has a flight time of about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Be sure to trek to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. Renowned for its pristine white sands, it’s been voted Australia’s best beach on numerous occasions. From Airlie Beach, embark on a Great Barrier Reef Cruise, take advantage of the day tours across Hamilton Island, take a scenic flight over the sparkling ocean waters, or try your hand at snorkelling with the abundant marine life.
Airlie Beach also boasts the best kayaking in the area. Wind your way through the many islands and their campgrounds and absorb the beauty of the Ngaro Sea Trail Great Walk by hiring a sea kayak.
While most people staying in Airlie Beach enjoy journeying to Whitsunday Islands, there’s plenty to do on land. Conway National Park is a secluded area of lowland rainforest and waterfalls where you can escape the hustle and bustle. Drive to Mount Rooper or Coral Beach car parks and take a bushwalk to spectacular views of the Whitsunday Islands and have a few isolated beaches all to yourself.
In the heart of town enjoy a variety of cafes, restaurants, bars and buzzing accommodation spaces during your stay. Head to Hemingway’s for a waterfront view, or Fish D’vine and Rum Bar for the best seafood in town (plus 450 types of rum). Little Vegas Burger and Bar is rumoured to have the best burgers in town, while Café One 3 has a long list of gluten free, vegan and vegetarian dishes. Sorrento Restaurant & Bar and Denmans Beer Café are also worth a visit.
Explore the vibrant hub of Airlie Beach even further by catching what you eat. Cast a line by the rock walls near the sailing club in Cannonvale (a 5-minute drive) or Shute Harbour (an 11-minute drive). For the thrill seekers, experience Airlie Beach from an aerial point of view as you skydive in tandem, or rent jet skis and zoom around the Airlie Beach shoreline.
With a hire car, you can explore the splendours of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays on your own time. Pick up your rental at Proserpine Airport and enjoy the stunning gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
