28 Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach, Island Tours, and More
Welcome to Airlie Beach, the sparkling blue coastal gateway to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. Known for its tropical vibe, turquoise waters, and easy access to the islands, Airlie Beach has so much more to offer than just a pretty photo-op.
If you are searching for the best things to do in Airlie Beach, from visiting Whitehaven Beach to snorkeling with turtles and chasing dreamy sunsets, you will quickly see why it is one of Queensland’s most loved beach towns by backpackers, families, and luxury travelers alike.
I spent my days here exploring nearby islands, diving the reef, and soaking in every sunset I could find. Whether you want to sail through the Whitsundays, fly over Heart Reef, or just relax at the Airlie Lagoon, there is something here for everyone. Airlie Beach also makes the perfect base for exploring North Queensland, with easy access to Hamilton Island, Conway National Park, and hidden waterfalls. From island hopping to reef adventures, Airlie Beach is a must-visit for anyone who loves the ocean, adventure, and the laid-back tropical lifestyle.
Oh & as always practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :)
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28 Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach
A view over Airlie Beach's pristine blue waters, dotted with boats and islands.
Pin it for later! Save this guide to the best things to do in Airlie Beach for your next Whitsundays getaway.
Airlie Beach Map
Below is a map to help you find all of the best things to do in Airlie Beach. I have highlighted my must-see spots on the map in purple!
The Best Beaches in Airlie Beach
Ready to find the best beaches in Airlie Beach? The first four on this list are my top picks you must visit! All of these beaches are free things to do in Airlie Beach and are perfect for a sunny day out. Just be sure to watch out for dangerous jellyfish from October until May.
#1: Whitehaven Beach
A view of Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays.
Whitehaven Beach is that dreamy, pure white silica sandy beach you have seen all over postcards and Instagram. Stretching more than 7 KM along Whitsunday Island, it is famous for its fine, soft sand that some say you can even polish jewelry on. The water consists of stunning shades of blue and turquoise perfect area for SUP, swimming, and even spotting reef sharks or rays on a snorkel. At the northern end lies Hill Inlet, where the tide shifts the sand and water to create ever-changing swirl patterns. The sand is so soft and fine that people even say you can polish jewelry or crystals in it.
The beach is best for: Dreamy views, snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, or simply relaxing on this pristine stretch of paradise.
Amenities: Restrooms
Good to know: To get to Whitehaven Beach, you must sail there, or join a day trip from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island. Find out more here!
#2: Hideaway Bay
A favorite beach among locals, Hideaway Bay is truly picturesque. Soft white sand stretches along one side, while red rocks dot the other, creating a stunning contrast and a peaceful place to relax.
Hideaway Bay is one of the most beautiful and underrated beaches near Airlie Beach, with beautiful green hills surrounding it. It has soft white sand, red rocky sections to climb and explore, and a calm, relaxed vibe that makes it perfect for a quiet day out. There is a small parking lot, a nearby campground, and even a playground, making it easy to spend the whole day here. The beach wraps around to the left (past the red rocks), offering more space to explore and enjoy the view.
The beach is best for: spending a day at the beach between exploring rocks, SUP, swimming, and sunbathing.
Amenities: Playground, campgrounds, small parking lot. The beach is in a more residential area, so be sure to pack everything you need for the day.
Good to know: Turtles may nest in this area, so be mindful while walking along the beach, especially if you have a dog. It is best not to let them dig.
#3: Dingo Beach
A view of Dingo Beach, a truly beautiful beach between the light blue waters, the hilly landscapes, and the islands in the backdrop.
Dingo Beach is one of my absolute favorite beaches near Airlie Beach. Set in a quiet, more residential area, it has a calm, peaceful vibe that feels far away from the crowds. The beach stretches wide with plenty of shells scattered along the sand and dreamy mountain views to both the left and right.
I was told this beach is still a bit of a local secret with calm waters, making it great for swimming or just unwinding by the shore. There is some natural shade toward the back of the beach under the trees and bushes, perfect for relaxing during the hotter hours of the day. It is a great spot to slow down, take in the views, and enjoy the simple beauty of the Airlie Beach and Whitsundays coast.
The beach is best for: Sunbathing, swimming, and SUP with the right swell.
Amenities: Playground, BBQ area, picnic benches, restrooms, and showers. There is a boat ramp here.
Good to know: Granted, I visited in jelly season, I did see quite a few man-of-war jellys floating about. Dogs are allowed on this beach.
#4: Froggies Beach
Froggies Beach was truly dreamy! It was the perfect picturesque small cove-like beach with ombre blue waters.
Froggies Beach, just 10 minutes from Hideaway Bay, makes you feel like you’re on your own secluded slice of paradise, with sparkling blue water gently crashing onto soft white and golden sand. The beach is small but incredibly picturesque, with a stunning backdrop of distant, silhouetted land.
There is minimal shade except for a few spots under the rocks or behind the bush. Unique rock formations line one side of the beach, adding to its beauty. Froggies Beach is the kind of dreamy coastal spot that makes you want to stay all day.
The beach is best for: Enjoying your own slice of paradise.
Amenities: None really.
Good to know: The road from Hideaway Bay to Froggies is partially gravel and rocky. Parking here is on a rocky, dirt path. Low-to-the-ground cars may have difficulty.
#5: CannonVale Beach
Quiet Cannonvale Beach near the Bicentennial Walkway in Airlie Beach Queensland.
Cannonvale Beach sits just before the Bicentennial Walkway and has a relaxed, local feel that makes it quieter than the main Airlie Beach spots. This calm stretch of coast offers pretty views of nearby islands, hilly greenery to the left, and mangroves to the right.
When the tide goes out, little sandbars appear along the shore, and the beach’s mix of coarse sand, shells, and pebbles gives it a natural, untouched feel. Bring a cozy blanket if you plan to sit for a while, as there is not much shade on the beach.
The beach is best for: Morning walks, peaceful swims, and a quiet local vibe.
Amenities: A small cafe sits just behind the beach, along with a shaded picnic area, BBQ facilities, a playground, and a few free parking spots. Parking fills quickly, so it is best to arrive early. I found one available around 7 AM.
Good to know: Cannonvale is more residential than touristy, so you will not find shops or restaurants nearby. There is not much shade on the beach, so bring a hat or umbrella if you plan to stay a while.
#6: Boathaven Beach
A view of the soft stretch of white sand along Boathaven Beach, a popular spot to sunbathe and swim for the day.
Boathaven Beach is one of the best beaches near Airlie Beach and a favorite if you want soft sand, calm waters, and a quiet escape from the busier spots. The beach is lined with palm trees on one side, offering some shade, and big green hills on the other, creating a peaceful, scenic backdrop.
The beach is best for: Swimming, sunbathing, relaxing, and taking dogs off leash.
Amenities: There are minimal facilities here, so it is best to bring your own water, snacks, and anything else you might need for a day out.
Good to know: Boathaven Beach is perfect for a secluded day away from the crowds. Its calm waters make it ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful stretch of coastline in Airlie Beach.
#7: Coral Beach Track & Lookout
Some of the unique coral we found along Coral Beach in Airlie Beach. (Of course, we left it on the beach, but it is still fun to pick through).
I was obsessed with the corals on this beach, it is a must visit especially if you have younger children or you love the ocean like I do!
Coral Beach is exactly what it sounds like, an entire beach covered with bits and pieces of washed-up coral. It is a fun spot for families and ocean lovers, who can explore the unique pieces and see what treasures they can find. The beach sits within a medium-sized cove, making it perfect for swimming and relaxing. Visiting here really gives you that secluded island vibe.
To reach Coral Beach, it is a 1.8-mile walk along a relatively easy path. The trail is almost entirely shaded by trees, keeping you cool on warmer days. You can also continue along the path to reach a scenic viewpoint overlooking the coastline, perfect for photos or just soaking in the views.
The beach is best for: Searching through endless coral pieces scattered along the shore for a close-up look at the marine world.
Amenities: None.
Good to know: There is not much sand here, mostly coral, which means lying out on your towel may not be the comfiest.
#8: Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach, one of the most popular spots to hangout for the day with easy access to everything you need.
Airlie Beach is one of the most popular beaches in town and is perfect if you want soft sand, easy access, and plenty of amenities nearby. The beach has lots of sand to lie out on, though there is not much shade directly on the sand. Palm trees line the back, and shaded areas on the grass behind the sand include picnic benches with umbrellas, BBQs, and little sitting platforms along the walkway.
The beach is best for: Swimming, families, sunbathing, and enjoying the town vibe.
Amenities: A playground, picnic areas, BBQs, and nearby cafes and restaurants. The Saturday markets are set up just behind the beach.
Good to know: Airlie Beach is right near the town center, making it easy to grab food or explore local shops. It is busier than Cannonvale or Boathaven Beach, but perfect if you want a combination of beach and convenience.
#9: Shingley Beach
Shingley Beach’s tiny patch of sand tucked in Airlie Beach’s marina.
Shingley Beach is a tiny patch of sand tucked near the marina, perfect for a quick stop rather than a full beach day. The shallow water makes it ideal for dogs or a short swim along the Bicentennial Walk. There is a bit of grass behind the sand, some trees for shade, benches, a BBQ area, and restrooms.
The beach is best for: Quick swims, dogs, or a small picnic.
Amenities: BBQs, shaded picnic areas, benches, a boat ramp, and nearby restrooms.
Good to know: This beach is more of a small marina spot than a classic beach, and is a nice place to relax for a short break or watch the boats go by, but it is not suited for long beach days or sunbathing.
Whitsundays Boat Tours, Snorkeling, & Island Adventures
A trip to Airlie Beach would not be complete without a visit to the world-renowned Whitsundays. Whether you are flying over them, diving beneath them, staying on one of the islands, or zipping past on a boat day trip, this list covers the best ways to experience the Whitsundays from Airlie Beach.
#10: Sailing Whitsundays “Bullet Tour”
A view from the Bullet Tour with Sailing Whitsundays, one of the best things to do in Airlie Beach by far!
There truly is no better way to experience all the Whitsundays have to offer, including Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, than on the Sailing Whitsundays Bullet Day Trip. Imagine feeling the sea breeze through your hair as you zip across the Whitsunday Islands on a high-speed power catamaran. This tour not only takes you to the iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout, but also gives you time to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. My day on the Bullet Tour was unforgettable; from paddleboarding over coral reefs and snorkeling with tropical fish to enjoying a freshly prepared buffet lunch (they even catered to my gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescetarian diet). I loved seeing Whitehaven Beach from every angle while spotting turtles, colorful schools of fish, and more out on the reef.
The day trip includes transfers to the marina, a buffet lunch catered to your diet, wetsuits, snorkel sets, SUP, and eight hours out on the water. Hands down one of the best things to do in Airlie Beach. You can book my exact tour here!
#11: Snorkeling The Great Barrier Reef
A clownfish hiding in his anemone on the Great Barrier Reef.
With Airlie Beach serving as the gateway to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef, snorkeling is one of the best things to do in the area. The region offers endless snorkeling spots where you can see turtles, tropical fish, rays, and even reef sharks up close. For the ultimate experience, I recommend booking a full-day snorkeling tour from Airlie Beach to explore the ocean’s wonders and soak in the vibrant marine life of the Whitsundays.
#12: Scuba Diving The Great Barrier Reef
A nudibranch from a Whitsunday/Airlie Beach dive.
For a closer look at the reef in the area, opt for an Airlie Beach dive! With access to the Airlie Beach coastline, the Whitsundays, and parts of the Great Barrier Reef, diving options here are endless. Whether you are new to diving or a seasoned pro, the dive sites around Airlie Beach have something for everyone. Several boats, including the Summer Jo and other dive operators in Airlie Beach town, offer day trips to explore scuba diving around the Whitsundays. Hamilton Island also has some scuba day trips worth checking out.
Prefer shore diving? You can take a boat from Airlie Beach to dive off Bowen’s coastline, and night dives are even possible for the more adventurous.
As for what you might see, the possibilities are endless…turtles, manta rays, nudibranchs, tropical fish, and maybe even a reef shark. Diving in Airlie Beach is truly a bucket-list experience for anyone who loves exploring the underwater world.
#13: Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another fun activity to enjoy both at Airlie Beach and out in the Whitsundays. Glide across the water while getting a close-up look at marine life and a unique perspective of the beaches and islands around you. Paddleboards can be rented from many shops and accommodations in town, and some day trips to the Whitsundays even include them as part of the adventure.
#14: Visit Heart Reef
The Heart Reef surrounded by turquoise waters in the Whitsundays, Australia. By far one of the best things to do in Airlie Beach.
Perhaps one of the most iconic places near Airlie Beach and one of the best things to do is to see the Whitsundays’ Heart Reef. I was a bit skeptical of this spot before visiting, but truthfully, it is just as beautiful (and perfectly heart-shaped) in person.
There are mainly two ways to see Heart Reef. You can take a scenic flight over the reef for epic aerial views, or opt for the exclusive helicopter ride that lands on a nearby pad for a closer look. Either way, it is a bucket-list experience and one of the most photographed spots in the Whitsundays.
Tips for visiting:
Book in advance, especially during peak season, as tours can sell out quickly.
Bring a camera or GoPro for epic aerial shots.
Early morning flights often have the clearest skies and calmest waters for the best views. The earlier the flight, the less hot you will be on the airplane (trust me, I was sweating even at 10 AM).
#15: Take a Scenic Flight
The view from my scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef from Airlie Beach. One of my favorite and most memorable things I did!
Speaking of scenic flights, one of my favorite things I did in Airlie Beach was take a flight over the Whitsundays. From the air, you get breathtaking views of Airlie Beach’s pristine blue waters, the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, the Great Barrier Reef, AND Heart Reef. The scenery is otherworldly and feels like something out of a fantasy. Picture turquoise patches of shallow water surrounded by yellow and green coral, deeper shades of blue beyond, Whitehaven’s iconic swirling white sands, and the perfect heart-shaped reef below. There is truly nothing else like it in Airlie Beach.
Tips for visiting (in addition to the ones listed above for Heart Reef):
The plane can get hot, so dress comfortably.
Flights usually have 4 to 12 passenger seats, making it an intimate experience.
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Check the weather before booking to ensure clear skies.
Flights can get a little bumpy, so take motion sickness essentials if needed.
#16: Skydiving Over the Whitsundays
Envision skydiving over the Whitsunday’s and the Great Barrier Reef!
For the adrenaline and adventure seekers, this one is for you! What better way to get a close-up encounter with the Whitsundays than skydiving in Airlie Beach? I firmly believe everyone should skydive at least once in their life— the feeling is incredibly freeing, and you truly feel like you are flying. If, like me, you only plan to skydive once because jumping out of a plane is terrifying, why not do it somewhere epic and unforgettable, like the Whitsundays? Even better, you can land right on the soft sandy beach for the ultimate experience.
#17: Sunset Sailing
Imagine your sailing across the orange-hued sky reflecting off of Airlie Beach’s calm waters.
Let’s be honest, one of the highlights of Airlie Beach is hopping on a sailboat to explore the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. And what better way to experience it than with a dreamy orange-hued sunset over the islands? If you want a kid-free night, no problem…you can join an adults-only sunset sail here. Most tours last around an hour and often include drinks, making it the perfect way to unwind, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the magic of the Whitsundays and an Airlie Beach sunset from the water.
Find an Airlie Beach sunset sailing tour to bring your kids with you, here.
#18-20: Explore The Whitsunday Islands: Hamilton, Daydream, Hayman, & Long Island
An aerial view of some of the the Whitsunday Islands near Airlie Beach.
One of the best things to do in Airlie Beach is take a day trip to the Whitsundays! Two of the most popular islands for a day out are Daydream Island (just a 30-minute ferry ride) and Hamilton Island (about an hour by ferry). Daydream Island offers an underwater observatory, snorkelling, and aquatic adventures. Hamilton Island delivers more with snorkeling, scuba diving, day trips, and even scenic hikes. All ferry tickets must be booked in advance.
You can find the Hamilton Island day trip here.
Scenic Lookouts & Hikes in Airlie Beach
Some of the best things to do in Airlie Beach are not on the water. Hit the trails and lookouts for scenic views of the coastline, islands, and surrounding hills.
#21 Hill Inlet Lookout
The view over the iconic and insanely beautiful Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet in the Whitsundays. One of the best things to do in Airlie Beach!
At the northern end of Whitehaven Beach lies Hill Inlet, where the tide shifts the white silica sand and blue water to create mesmerizing swirl patterns that change throughout the day. These patterns form as the tide flows in and out, pushing the sand through the inlet and blending it with the shallow waters. The result is a constantly evolving landscape, meaning your view of Hill Inlet will never look exactly the same as someone who visited the day before or after.
The best view of Hill Inlet is from the lookout platforms at Tongue Bay, which offers one of the most photographed views in all of Australia. The hike is extremely easy, taking you only 10 minutes up to the lookout. To access this viewpoint, you can join a day tour from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island! A scenic flight is also an epic way to experience this view (photographed above).
#22: Airlie Beach Lookouts
A lookout point along the trail of Coral Beach in Airlie Beach.
Checking out some of the lookout points in Airlie Beach is a must while you are in town, especially if you want a free alternative to a scenic flight. No matter where you drive along the coast or up into the hills of the residential areas, you will be greeted with breathtaking views over the coastline. Sunrise, midday, golden hour, or sunset…no matter when you visit, you will not be disappointed.
If you do not want to hike at all, try the Airlie Beach Lookout or simply drive around the hilly residential streets to enjoy the views.
For those who do not mind a short walk or are visiting with children, Beak Lookout (2.4 miles out and back) or the viewpoint at the very beginning of the Honeyeater trail are perfect options.
For anyone ready to work for their reward (over 5 miles round trip), try #23 for a viewpoint that is worth every step.
#23: Honeyeater Lookout Hike
The view of Airlie Beach at the top of Honeyeater Lookout Hike.
The best hike and viewpoint in Airlie Beach has got to be the one at the end of the Honeyeater Trail. It is a 5-mile out-and-back hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain through thick jungle, and the lookout at the top is so worth it.
There is sadly no parking at the trailhead, so you will need to drive around the nearby streets to find a spot (watch the parking and residential-only signs). I found one about a five-minute walk away.
You will know you have reached the start of the trail when you see a big sign next to a set of stairs leading into the jungle. The trail is mostly shaded by trees, but trust me, it gets humid in there, especially in the summer. That makes the uphill sections feel a little challenging, at least for me, so think endurance cardio. I got lucky with a bit of rain while hiking, which cooled things down, but it did make the path a little slippery. It took me about an hour to reach the lookout, where a bench and the epic view awaited, and another hour to hike back down.
Be sure to look out for the trail signs so you can make sure you stay on the right path.
Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Be sure to wear durable sneakers or hiking shoes, and pack plenty of water and bug spray.
#24: Cedar Creek Falls in Conway National Park
Another one of the best hikes in Airlie Beach is Cedar Creek Falls. Just a 30-minute drive from Airlie Beach town center, this 2.9-mile out-and-back trail takes you through lush Australian rainforest to a waterfall and natural pools that are perfect for cooling off after your hike. There is some light boulder and rock scrambling along the path, so I recommend wearing closed-toe shoes with a good grip. Be sure to pack plenty of water, your swimsuit, a towel, and some bug spray.
Parking is limited, but many people park along the roadside. It is worth checking recent reviews before your visit to see if the waterfall is flowing, as it is best after rainfall or during the wet summer months. Sadly, the falls were dry when we visited.
Cedar Creek Falls is located in Conway National Park, which also offers longer hikes such as the Whitsunday Great Walk if you are up for a bigger adventure.
#25: Bicentennial Walkway
Scenic coastal path of the Bicentennial Walkway in Airlie Beach overlooking turquoise water and islands. One of the best things to do here.
Enjoying a sunny walk along the Bicentennial Walkway in Airlie Beach Queensland.
Another one of my favorite walks and best things to do in Airlie Beach is the Bicentennial Walkway. This 5-kilometer path takes you from Cannonvale Beach all the way into Airlie Beach, following the coastline along beautifully crafted boardwalks that connect shore to shore. The entire path took me around 2-3 hours there and back.
The turtle boardwalk area has to be one of my favorite sections, leading you out over the water with blooming pink and white flowers on your right and Airlie’s impressive blue waters on your left. This walk is perfect as a morning activity, letting you see most of the coastline and get your bearings of the area.
There are also some cute cafes and some of Airlie Beach’s best restaurants along the water where you can stop for a coffee or breakfast before continuing your stroll.
Things to Do in Airlie Beach Town
Looking for the best things to do in Airlie Beach beyond the beaches and views? Whether you want to swim safely outside of stinger season or go on a little shopping spree, this section has you covered.
#26: Airlie Beach Lagoon & Family-Friendly Fun
View of the Airlie Beach Lagoon surrounded by tropical scenery and sunbathers.
One of the best things to do in Airlie Beach for families, and a perfect way to cool off during stinger season, is to take a dip in the Airlie Beach Lagoon. Right in the heart of town and oceanfront, you will find three main pools: a shallow pool for toddlers, a 1.5-meter pool for taller kids, and a larger 2-meter pool for everyone else. The lagoon also has disabled access.
You can easily set up here for the day with BBQs for cooking, picnic benches, playgrounds, bathrooms, showers, umbrellas and chairs, and even short walking paths. A lifeguard is always on duty, making it a safe and fun spot for the whole family.
#27: Airlie Beach Market
Stalls at the Airlie Beach Markets selling handmade goods and local produce. The perfect thing to do on a Saturday morning!
Every Sunday, along the back of Airlie Beach, you will find the Airlie Beach Markets. Stalls selling local crafts, clothing, books, hats, condiments, produce, and everything you can imagine are waiting for you. A massive playground sits nearby, perfect for keeping kids entertained while you browse. Smoothies, coffees, and small treats are available too. I even spotted a gluten-free donut stall and some vegan smoothies!
The markets run from 7 AM to 1 PM. Even if you do not want to spend any money, this is a great spot for some free window shopping and soaking up the local vibe.
#28: Shop, Eat, & Explore Airlie Beach Town
Browsing boutique shops and restaurants in downtown Airlie Beach Queensland
There is nothing better to do on holiday than enjoy a little shopping spree and some delicious seafood. Shop, eat, and explore Airlie Beach town for a fun break from the sun and sand. Stroll along the streets to discover boutique stores, spas, and souvenir shops. Stop for a coffee at a cozy cafe like Wisdom Cafe or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the best waterfront restaurants. Whether you are searching for unique gifts, tasty food, or just soaking in the tropical vibe, Airlie Beach town has plenty to keep you entertained.
Where to Stay in Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach is a hotspot for local and international travelers, making finding accommodation easy, but often a bit more on the expensive side. I suggest staying between Cannonvale and the Shute Harbour to be in range of the public bus and popular attractions.
Best Accommodation Options in Airlie Beach For Every Traveler…
Backpacker/Hostel Option: Bounce Airlie Beach
Best Low-Budget: Sunlit Waters Studio Apartments
Best Mid-Budget: Coral Sea Resort
Best High-End Budget: Mirage Whitsundays
Best Luxury Stays: Yangaro
Best Caravan & Campgrounds: Tasman Holiday Parks
You can also find hotel deals at Agoda and Hostel World! You can help support my travel blog by clicking and booking through the links at no additional cost to you!
Best Time to Visit Airlie Beach
The best time to visit Airlie Beach (in my opinion) is either in the winter or the spring. I have spent time there in the summer and found the heat and humidity a bit too much. Summer is also stinger season, so I recommend prioritizing winter or spring for the best weather and safer swimming.
Winter in Airlie Beach (June, July, August)
Dry, sunny days and cooler nights
Perfect for sunsets, sailing, and whale watching
Peak season for events: Airlie Beach Race Week, Island Race Week, and the Great Barrier Reef Festival
Spring in Airlie Beach (September, October, November)
Warm, sunny days with clear skies and little rain
Calm seas and perfect sailing conditions
Before peak stinger season, great for swimming and snorkelling
Long days made for exploring the Whitsundays and soaking up the sun
Stinger Season: October - May
Airlie Beach Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: Outside stinger season (November to May) for safer swimming. Just one girl’s opinion here…
Top Beaches: Whitehaven, Froggies, Hideaway, Dingo, and Coral
The Best Scenic Lookouts & Hikes: Bicentennial Walkway & Honeyeater Trail Lookout
The Best Whitsundays & Iconic Experiences: Heart Reef, Scenic Flights, Boat Tour
Best Family-Friendly & Free Activities: Airlie Beach Lagoon, Airlie Beach Markets, hikes, lookouts, and the beaches.
Insider Tips…
The lookouts and hikes are free; pack water, sunscreen, and bug spray.
Off-road vehicles are recommended for beaches or lookouts with dirt paths.
Early mornings are best for finding free parking in Airlie Beach.
Check the weather before scenic flights, boat trips, and dives.
Book activities ahead of time so they do not sell out on you.
The public bus is available for those who do not have a vehicle.
Download an eSIM with Airalo, so you do not get lost navigating your way around town.
Mistakes can happen, especially when sailing, hiking, snorkeling, etc., so I recommend always having some form of travel medical insurance. I have used Safety Wing for the past 4 years and cannot recommend them enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Whitehaven Beach from Airlie Beach
The most popular way to get from Airlie Beach to Whitehaven Beach is by a day tour. Many companies run full-day or half-day trips that stop at Whitehaven for snorkelling, swimming, and soaking up the sun (like this one)!
For an epic aerial view, a scenic flight over Whitehaven Beach from Airlie Beach is unbeatable, perfect for photos and seeing the swirling white sands from above.
What are the must-visit beaches in Airlie Beach?
The must-visit beaches in Airlie Beach are Whitehaven Beach, Froggies Beach, Hideaway Bay, and Dingo Beach.
What are the best activities and tours in Airlie Beach?
Sailing and exploring the Whitsundays
Joining a boat day tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
Taking a scenic flight over Heart Reef
What are the best things to do in Airlie Beach for families?
Airlie Beach Lagoon, Hamilton Island Mini Golf, Cedar Creek Falls, Airlie Beach Market, lookouts, and joining a snorkeling day trip!
→ Ready for your Balinese escape? Find the best North Bali itinerary here.
→ Hoping for somewhere less crowded than Bali? Try Lombok! Check out my guide to the best beaches in Lombok; they are just as beautiful as Bali’s, only with far fewer crowds.
