9 Best Things to Do in Whitsundays in 2024

Thinking of what to do in Whitsundays?

Regarding travel bucket lists, Whitsunday vacations are at the top of the list for many explorers.

There are 74 islands on Whitsundays Island, Australia, between Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef.

Tourists come from around the globe for Whitehaven Beach, a seaplane ride over Heart Reef, and world-class luxury island lodgings on Whitsundays.

It’s also great for sailing, snorkelling, diving, and swimming on isolated beaches and secret harbours.

With that, the Whitsundays truly have remote islands, renowned Whitsundays resorts, the world’s most beautiful beach, a heart-shaped coral reef, upscale private clubs, nature hikes, and just about every water activity you can think of.

Unique Things To Do in The Whitsunday

Exploring the Whitsundays offers a treasure trove of experiences unlike any other, with a variety of unique activities in the Whitsunday Islands that cater to every interest.

From the thrill of aerial tours to the serenity of secluded beach picnics, the region is bursting with unique things to do.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a relaxation enthusiast, the Whitsundays promise unforgettable moments amidst stunning natural beauty.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

1. Whitsunday Island and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

Discover Whitsunday Islands tourism and the Great Barrier Reef from above with a 60-minute scenic flight that takes you through places like Whitehaven Beach and Heart Reef.

An hour-long scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including the world-famous Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach, is one of the things to do in Whitsundays that you shouldn’t miss!

The trip stops at some of the region’s most beautiful spots.

You’ll see Conway National Park, Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef as part of your magnificent journey.

You can fly above the world-famous Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, known for its whirling dunes.

It’s just a short distance away from the Whitsunday Islands to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most spectacular Whitsunday attractions.

In addition to the famed Heart Reef, which is only seen from the air and only in the Whitsundays, you may best experience the reef’s distinctive colours and patterns from the air.

In-flight pilot commentary and a window seat are included in the Reef & Island journey.

Indeed, your Whitsunday experience wouldn’t be complete without taking this iconic trip.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

2. Whitehaven Beach Full-day Tour

Visiting Whitehaven Beach is the pinnacle of this tour, celebrated for its soft, powdery white sands and vivid turquoise waters.

It’s a location where the beauty is so profound that photographs scarcely capture its essence, making it a top choice for things to do at Whitehaven Beach.

Stepping onto the beach felt like stepping into another world, one where time slows down and the beauty of nature takes centre stage.

The crew on board are friendly and incredibly knowledgeable, sharing stories and insights about the Whitsundays that enriched the experience.

The boat was equipped with everything needed for a day of exploration and relaxation, from comfortable seating areas to refreshments, ensuring every moment on board was as enjoyable as those spent on the islands.

This ultimate cruise is a must for anyone looking to discover the Whitsundays.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

3. Whitsunday Crocodile Safari

The freshwater crocodile, which can reach a length of 6 meters and live for more than 70 years, is one of Australia’s deadliest monsters, and you’ll get up and personal with it on this unusual wildlife day trip.

More than one hundred and fifty resident Crocs live in the Proserpine River, around 30 kilometres south of Airlie Beach.

Take a ferry to the mainland to get to Airlie Beach from Hamilton Island. You may reach the Proserpine River’s muddy banks in a 40-minute bus journey via sugarcane farms.

From there, a knowledgeable ranger will take you croc-spotting in a spacious, flat-bottomed boat with a safe bottom.

Moreover, in the Goorganga Wetlands, you may see birds, wallabies, and snakes on an open-air tractor train.

In addition, afternoon tea includes traditional billy tea and damper and an excellent barbeque meal.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

4. Airlie Beach Glass Bottom Boat Tour

The journey starts from Airlie Beach, a gem tucked away on the Queensland coast, known for its relaxed vibe and stunning scenery.

The glass bottom boat is the perfect vessel for this adventure, allowing you to gaze into the clear blue waters and marvel at the coral reefs and marine life that call this place home.

It’s like being in a moving aquarium, but so much better because it’s all real.

What makes this tour stand out is the sheer beauty and diversity of the marine life you get to see.

From colourful coral gardens to schools of playful fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a turtle gliding by.

The guide on board is a fountain of knowledge, sharing fascinating facts about the reef and its inhabitants.

This Glass Bottom Boat Discovery Tour is a must-do for those who love nature and seek a unique way to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

It’s suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic option for families, couples, or solo travellers.

Plus, it’s a gentle reminder of the importance of preserving our natural wonders for generations to come.

Reflecting on the experience, it’s not just the sights that stay with you, but the feeling of being so close to nature yet so comfortably seated in the boat.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

5. Whitsunday Guided Jet Ski Tour

Jet ski around the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

With the help of your knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll fly by stunning coves and beaches.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned rider, there are a variety of tour alternatives to select from.

Also, you may get your adrenaline pumping by jetskiing to the secluded Paradise Cove Resort, away from the masses.

Enjoy a refreshing beverage and a delectable tropical lunch before soaking up the sun in the hotel pool.

With that in mind, get some shut-eye in the pool or on the beach before the thrilling 70-kilometre trip returns to provide even more breathtaking views of the islands and resorts you passed on the way.

Indeed, this new itinerary includes a stay at a resort and a lot of time for jet skiing. Unfortunately, this route is only suitable for solitary cyclists due to the vast distances.

Still, this is definitely a must-do thing on Whitsundays when you’re here.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

6. Whitsundays Sunset Sailing Cruise

On a Whitsunday cruise, you may see two of Australia’s most popular destinations: Hamilton Island and Pioneer Bay.

Hamilton Island is the place to go if you’re looking for an upmarket getaway with plenty of kid-friendly Whitsunday activities.

Whitehaven Beach, located on Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia, is one of Australia’s most stunning beaches.

Experience Airlie Beach as the start of the cruise is from there. Then, enjoy the sunset and Whitsundays with a glass of wine and light snacks.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

7. Airlie Beach Segway Rainforest

Learn about the wild side on an exhilarating Segway Tour lasting three and a half hours.

Self-balancing Segways are simple to use, and you’ll ride through the Conway National Park on a 5.5-mile (9-km) trip with your guide.

You can also take a break from the tranquil jungle pathways to have a cup of coffee and a croissant overlooking Impulse Creek on the Whitsunday Great Walk.

A leisurely ride to a bed and breakfast and hotel transfers from Airlie Beach are also included in the package.

Full instructions are given, so even complete newbies may benefit. As a result of the smaller group size, the trip is more customised.

Along the Whitsunday Great Walk, you may take a Segway tour through the stunning Conway National Park rainforest.

The 9-kilometre round trip will take you through the lush rainforest and through gurgling streams while your knowledgeable tour guide provides interpretative commentary on the local wildlife and vegetation.

Make the most of your Segway tour by letting your guide take you through the spectacular Whitsunday tropical rainforest!

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

8. Whitsunday Island Hopper Pass

Trying to be spontaneous on your trip? With the Resort Connections schedule in hand, you may go anywhere you want between Airlie Beach, Daydream Island, and Hamilton Island today!

This permit allows you to travel between the islands as much as you wish throughout the day.

You’ll be able to select from a wide variety of Whitsunday island activities and excellent lunch choices no matter where you are.

Indeed, you don’t want to miss the final boat unless you’ve already reserved a room.

So what are you waiting for? Take full use of the Island Hopper Pass, which gives you access to all of the islands!

As long as you have a copy of the Resort Connections itinerary on hand, you may spend as much time as you want to explore between the two islands!

You may explore each place at your own pace so that you can stop for a swim, lunch, or rest.

Hamilton Island’s resort facilities, pools, and shuttle service are all included in your stay.

At Daydream Island’s Living Reef, you can see a live fish feeding show at 10 a.m. every day and also enjoy complimentary access to the Island’s resort areas and pools.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

9. Chasing Waterfalls in the Whitsunday’s Full-Day Tour

There are two great freshwater swimming holes and waterfalls hidden in a quiet rainforest, surrounded by an awe-inspiring mountain range—there are many colourful volcanic rock pools to explore.

Whitsunday attractions like Aurelien Falls and Wheel of Fire Waterfall are located in Eungella National Park, also known as “Land Of Cloud” by local Aboriginal people, where you can spend most of the day.

Indulge in some well-deserved R&R while keeping a keen eye out for the elusive Platypus.

The Eungella Honey Eater, a species uniquely seen in this national park, is a common sight and sound.

This trip has various trees, plants, berries and mushrooms of several types and sizes.

Forest Flying is an optional add-on that allows you to soar across the canopy of the rainforest.

So make sure your cameras are set to capture some of the world’s most breathtaking views on one of the things to do on Whitsundays.

Where is Whitsundays?

The Whitsunday Islands are located in the tropical waters of the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, Australia.

The islands are situated between the cities of Mackay and Airlie Beach, with the closest major city being Brisbane, which is approximately 1,100 kilometres to the south.

The region is easily accessible by air, with the Whitsunday Coast Airport located just outside of the town of Proserpine and the Hamilton Island Airport on its own island.

The main town of the Whitsundays is Airlie Beach, which serves as the gateway to the islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

From Airlie Beach, visitors can take a ferry, yacht, or cruise to explore the Whitsunday Islands, including popular destinations such as Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, and Whitehaven Beach.

The region is renowned for its natural beauty, with pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning coral reefs, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an idyllic tropical getaway.

Islands Off Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach serves as the gateway to the enchanting islands scattered across the Coral Sea, offering a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveller.

From secluded beaches to vibrant coral reefs, the islands off Airlie Beach are treasures waiting to be explored.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most captivating islands you can visit from Airlie Beach, each offering its unique allure.

📌 Hamilton Island: Often regarded as the best Whitsunday Island for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, Hamilton Island boasts an array of activities.

From world-class sailing and golfing to snorkelling along coral reefs teeming with marine life, the island caters to the luxury seeker and the nature enthusiast.

Its accessibility to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach makes it a premier choice for visitors.

📌 Daydream Island: After a recent refurbishment, Daydream Island has re-emerged as a stunning resort destination, perfect for those seeking relaxation with a view.

The island’s Living Reef, a unique outdoor aquarium, offers an up-close encounter with the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef, making it an educational and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.

📌 Whitsunday Island: Home to the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island is the largest of the 74 islands.

The island’s silica sands and crystal-clear waters are iconic, offering some of the region’s best swimming, beachcombing, and photo opportunities.

A visit here is among the top things to do at Whitehaven Beach, promising unforgettable memories.

📌 Hook Island: Offering some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in the Whitsundays, Hook Island is a haven for underwater enthusiasts.

Its protected bays and secluded beaches make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.

How To Get To The Whitsunday Islands

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

By Air

The Whitsundays are far more accessible by plane from Brisbane than any other major Australian city.

If you’re coming from anywhere else in Australia, you’ll almost certainly have to make a stopover in Brisbane. Booking flights are made easy using Skyscanner.

Just enter your main airport and then browse flights to the destination you are heading to, and you will receive a comprehensive list of the lowest prices available for flights wherever you are in the globe. 

This website can also let you search by month rather than specific days to provide you with more options and freedom during the booking process. 

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

By Car

For those travelling by car, The Bruce Highway, which links Townsville and Cairns to the north and Mackay and Brisbane to the south, is just a 20-minute drive from the Whitsundays.

On the Bruce Highway, the trip from Cairns or Brisbane to the Whitsundays is frequently pleasant, with many sights to view and several places to stop in or even spend the night.

Best of all, cars and campervans may be parked daily or overnight in various locations.

On the other note, if you don’t own a car, I would highly suggest renting through Discover Cars.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

By Train

Does flying cause you to feel worn out? Travelling by train is a refreshing alternative to the trouble, discomfort, and worry that other forms of transportation may bring.

As it turns out, commuting to and from Proserpine through Queensland Rail Travel is quick and easy. In fact, the rail station is located only 20 minutes away from Airlie Beach.

In detail, Proserpine station has five weekly northbound stops and five weekly southbound stops. From there, a connecting bus service will take you to Airlie Beach.

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

Ferry to Whitsunday Island

Getting to Whitsunday Island by ferry is a popular option for visitors to the Whitsundays.

The island is serviced by several ferry companies, including Cruise Whitsundays and Fantasea Cruising, which offer regular services from Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island.

To get to Whitsunday Island from Airlie Beach, visitors can take a ferry from the Port of Airlie, which is located in the heart of town.

The ferry journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and coastline.

Alternatively, visitors can take a ferry from Hamilton Island, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

It’s important to note that ferry schedules and availability may vary depending on the season, so booking in advance is advisable to ensure a seat on the ferry.

Best Places to Stay in Whitsundays

Whether you’re looking for a complete luxury Whitsundays experience or a place with a sea view and a balcony where the cockatoos come at dawn every day, there are several islands to choose from and a variety of lodging alternatives adding to your list of  things to do in Whitsundays

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

✅ Coral Sea Marina Resort

• ⭐ Rating: 8.6 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, good breakfast
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

This magnificent nautical-themed resort features 77 rooms and is covered by tropical gardens. It’s as though you’re on an island because of the almost 360-degree vistas.

Walking down the coastal boardwalk to the city’s main street, where eateries, bars and stores are located, takes about five minutes.

After another two minutes, you’ll arrive at the Port of Airlie, from which you may take boat cruises to the islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

Both Whitsunday Coast and Hamilton Island have their airports, which may be accessed by ferry.

Moreover, luxurious rooms, flats, and luxury penthouses with terraces and sea views are available at the hotel.

You could even glimpse a turtle swimming by while looking out the window.

In order to relax in the hammock on your balcony without the bother, private rooms are provided.

You can also see the anchor and sailing-themed decor in certain rooms, while others feature tropical florals.

Amenities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Free WiFi
• Free Parking
• The Rocks
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Airport shuttle
• Non-smoking rooms
• Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
• Bar
• Very good breakfast

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

✅ Palm Bay Resort

• ⭐ Rating: 8.8 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, garden and water views
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

You may hear the chirp of sulphur-crested cockatoos from the balconies of these waterfront homes as you get out of bed in the morning.

Indeed, Palm Bay is one of the best resorts in Whitsundays, where hanging out in a hammock makes sense.

Hamilton Island and Proserpine, a small village north of Airlie Beach, are the two primary gates to the Whitsunday Islands.

Moreover, Long Island is only a 20-minute boat journey away from Shute Harbour on the mainland, four times a day.

Furthermore, this divine resort provides the mood for a Whitsunday vacation getaway, with hammocks swaying on every porch.

Also, tiled flooring, rattan furniture, neutral tones, and flashes of blue in the artwork and cushions make the light of the room cheerful, and best of all, there are no TVs, radios, cellphones, or Wi-Fi to detract from the surrounding environment.

Amenities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Beachfront
• Spa and wellness centre
• Non-smoking rooms
• Curlews Restaurant
• Fitness centre
• Family rooms
• Bar
• Private beach area

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

✅ Palm Bungalows

• ⭐ Rating: 8.6 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, comfy beds, good breakfast
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

Families with young children will love these A-frame cabins set amid eucalypt trees and tropical gardens in the Palm Bungalows.

Some of Hamilton Island’s cheapest accommodations are tidy yet pleasantly big, and many have covered outside decks with double hammocks for resting in the sunshine.

A wide variety of pools, bars, shops, Whitsunday Islands activities, and restaurants are all within a short distance of the cottages located just outside the Resort Center.

Also, all 50 of the primary, one-story houses are the same.

The studio-style interiors include king-size beds, kitchenettes, and a day bed that you can convert into a rollaway for children to create an airy feel.

Also, wooden flooring and a colour combination of smokey greys and whites provide a modern impression of the place.

Despite their pared-back design, these Whitsunday free-standing cottages are surprisingly comfy.

Amenities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Free WiFi
• Airport shuttle (free)
• Pool Terrace
• Fitness centre
• Non-smoking rooms
• Bar
• Fabulous breakfast

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

✅ Freedom Shores

• ⭐ Rating: 9.3 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, free parking on site, good breakfast
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

A 13-minute drive from Airlie Beach, Freedom Shores is located six miles away in a rural setting, with a commanding view of Pioneer Bay.

This Whitsunday resort is 30 minutes away from Whitsunday Coast at Proserpine Airport, the closest airport.

From 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., a free shuttle bus takes visitors into town, where they can easily access local stores, restaurants, and day trips.

One of the resort’s main draws is its 65-foot-long pool, which views out into Pioneer Bay, Airlie Beach municipality, and the resort’s sprawling grounds.

Various Whitsunday island activities are available to guests, including cricket and volleyball, fishing off the beach (or on tour), and a shuttle bus to Airlie Beach.

A family business runs the resort; therefore, the quality of service is exceptional.

The on-site manager is a licensed butler with previous experience serving royalty and Hollywood celebrities.

In this case, there’s nothing to be concerned about. As a bonus, you may enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast in the hotel’s lounge or on the hotel’s outside deck.

Amenities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Free Parking
• Non-smoking rooms
• Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill
• Airport shuttle
• Free WiFi
• Beachfront
• Bar
• Private beach area
• Good breakfast

FAQs: Whitsundays Things to Do

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

THINGS TO DO IN WHITSUNDAYS

The Wrap-Up: Whitsundays Attractions

This fantastic island is way more than a cruise vacation it is also admired for many more sights.

There are no limitations on things to do in Whitsundays. Basically, it doesn’t matter whether you’re visiting the Whitsunday holidays for a family vacation.

Whether you’re up for a romantic or group getaway, Hamilton Island has something for everyone.

Indeed, no matter where you begin your journey, there’s no better way to reconnect with nature than by jumping from one Island to the next.