Welcome to the most spectacular part of the Australian coastline. Proserpine Airport is your gateway to the remarkable Whitsunday Islands in central Queensland. Your hire car will allow you to explore it all.
Proserpine is a vibrant town of contrasts – fields of cattle, sugar cane, art deco buildings, all under a glorious blue sky and plenty of sunshine. Proserpine River runs through the town, but it’s not for swimming at certain times of year (check with the locals and read the signs!) – instead, get in a boat and go on a Crocodile Safari to say hello to some of the town’s most unique reptilian residents.
Proserpine’s temperate climate makes it perfect for coffee growing, so if you’re a fan of caffeinated beverages take a drive out to the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation – one of Australia’s largest. There are rides for the kids to enjoy while you enjoy a cup or two of the freshest brews, and the tour of the plantation and roastery will educate and entertain.
The beautiful Cedar Creek Falls is roughly halfway between Proserpine and Airlie Beach making it the perfect place to break your journey. If there’s been rain, the waterfall is spectacular and icy cold – providing a welcome respite from the heat to anyone who enjoys a swim. There are trails to walk and wildlife to see aplenty here.
Proserpine Airport is the gateway to Airlie Beach, where many people start their exploration of the world-renowned Whitsundays, home of the Great Barrier Reef and all of its wonders. Airlie Beach is the perfect town to base yourself while exploring the majestic Whitsundays and lush rainforest that lines the coast. Be sure to enjoy the small-town charm of Airlie Beach by taking a stroll through the boutique cafes, restaurants and shops along the main street.
There are lots of ways to see the reef, above and below the water – you can enjoy a scenic flight for a bird's eye view, or take one of the many boat charter tours available. To enjoy things at a slower pace we recommend one of the magnificent “tall ship” sailing ships – a truly unique way to explore this beautiful region. If you prefer things more modern, there’s also jet ski safaris and state of the art catamarans that get you out over the reef in record time. You can take a dive course and strap on some scuba gear, or snorkel to your heart's content. If you prefer to stay dry there’s plenty of “glass bottom boat” options too. Whichever way you choose to see it you will be enthralled by the vibrant underwater world waiting to be discovered. This World Heritage area is rightly considered one of the great natural wonders of the world and your journey here is sure to be unforgettable.
With seventy-four islands in the Whitsundays to explore there are plenty of choices. If you want a well-appointed island with a world-class resort, Hamilton is where you’ll want to head. If seclusion is more your cup of tea there’s plenty of islands where you and your tour guide might be the only ones there – Hook Island is a popular choice, but most tour operators have their own favourite secret spot. Whichever you choose you’ll enjoy the warm sun, pristine white beaches and bright blue water under a cloudless sky almost every day – there’s a reason they call it a tropical paradise.
Be sure to hire a car so you can take this glorious region. A hire car will help you explore the sights of Proserpine, Airlie and the Whitsundays at your own pace.
