whitsunday islands

Why the Whitsundays Captivate the World

The Whitsunday Islands are more than just a postcard-perfect destination — they are an experience, crafted by nature over millions of years.

Formed from ancient volcanic mountains, these continental islands are rich in history, ecology, and culture, with strong connections to the traditional custodians, the Ngaro people.

Their magic lies in the perfect balance between protected wilderness and luxurious comfort.
Visitors can choose to camp under the stars on remote beaches or indulge in five-star luxury at world-renowned resorts like Hamilton Island and Hayman Island.

And of course, there’s the unparalleled access to the Great Barrier Reef, offering some of the best snorkelling, diving, and sailing adventures on Earth.

Iconic Sights You Cannot Miss

Whitehaven Beach

Voted time and time again among the world’s best beaches, Whitehaven Beach is pure paradise. Its silica sand is so fine and pure that it stays cool even on the hottest days, and the swirling patterns of Hill Inlet at the northern end create one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever witness.

Explore Whitehaven with our Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island Cruise from Airlie Beach for the ultimate day out.

Heart Reef

Nature’s own symbol of love — the famous Heart Reef is a naturally formed coral formation best viewed from the air. Seaplane or helicopter flights offer a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of this perfect heart floating in the turquoise waters of Hardy Reef.

Combine sea and sky experiences with our Sea and Sky Combo Tour.

The Great Barrier Reef

The Whitsundays are your gateway to the largest coral reef system in the world. Fringing reefs surrounding the islands are easily accessible for snorkelling, while day trips to the outer reef reveal vibrant coral gardens, abundant marine life, and crystal-clear waters.

Things To Do in the Whitsunday Islands

Sail the Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a global sailing mecca. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a complete beginner, the protected waters, steady trade winds, and countless anchorages make this region a dream come true.

Charter your own yacht with a bareboat experience or join a skippered sailing adventure aboard vessels like:

• Matador Whitsundays Overnight Tour
• 2 Day, 2 Night Sailing on Condor
• Hammer, Avatar, and Spank Me Sailing Adventures

Not ready for overnight? Taste the magic on a Day tour to Whitehaven and more.

Snorkel, Dive, and Swim

Snorkelling around the fringing reefs is a must-do in the Whitsunday Islands. Colourful coral gardens, tropical fish, turtles, and even manta rays await just metres offshore.

Explore pristine snorkel spots on Thundercat Whitsundays.

Or glide through the calm waters on a Wings Sailing and Snorkel Adventure.

Safety tip: Between October and May, always wear a stinger suit when swimming.

Unique Experiences

• Sunset Sailing: Watch the skies turn gold and pink on an Airlie Beach Sunset Sailing Tour.
• Whitsundays Scenic Flights: Soar above Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach with a Whitsundays Scenic Flight.
• Kayak Turtle Tours: Paddle alongside green sea turtles on the Airlie Beach Kayak Turtle Tour.
• Fishing: Cast a line in paradise with tips from our Whitsundays Fishing Guide.

When To Visit the Whitsundays

The Whitsundays enjoy a balmy, tropical climate year-round.

Insider tip: September is often regarded as the best month — with perfect weather, calm waters, and whale sightings!

Where to Stay

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation:

• Island Resorts: Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Hayman Island
• Airlie Beach Base: Perfect for Day Tours and ferries
• National Park Camping: Stay under the stars — check our Whitsundays Camping Guide

Need transfers? Check Airport Transfers for seamless connections.

How to Get Here

Flying is easy with two main airports:

• Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine)
• Hamilton Island Airport

From there, ferries and transfers get you to Airlie Beach or straight to the islands.

Pre-book your ferry, especially during busy seasons!

Protecting Paradise

The Whitsundays are part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Visitors play a role in keeping it pristine by following guidelines like:

• No touching coral or wildlife
• Respecting marine park zones
• Leaving no trace while camping

Check out our full Whitsundays Guide for tips on responsible travel.

Start Planning Your Whitsundays Escape

Whether you dream of sailing into the sunset, diving into an underwater wonderland, or simply basking on a beach so perfect it feels unreal, the Whitsunday Islands deliver.

Ready to make it happen? Explore unforgettable Overnight Tours or Day Tours today.

Have questions? Reach out via our Contact Page — we’re here to help you craft the tropical adventure of a lifetime.

All 74 Whitsunday Islands listed.

1. Baynham Island
2. Comston Island
3. Gaibirra Island
4. Keyser Island
5. Lindeman Island
6. Little Lindeman Island
7. Maher Island
8. Mansell Island
9. Pentecost Island
10. Camp Island
11. Seaforth Island
12. Shaw Island
13. Thomas Island
14. Triangle Island
15. Volskow Island
16. Daydream Island
17. Denman Island
18. Goat Island
19. Long Island
20. Mid Molle Island
21. North Molle Island
22. Pine Island
23. Planton Island
24. South Molle Island
25. Armit Island
26. Double Cone Island
27. Eshelby Island
28. Gloucester Island
29. Grassy Island
30. Gumbrell Island
31. Manta Ray Island
32. Middle Island
33. Olden Island
34. Poole Island
35. Rattray Island
36. Saddleback Island
37. Stone Island
38. Bird Island
39. Black Island
40. Border Island
41. Cid Island
42. Cowrie Island
43. Deloraine Island
44. Dent Island
45. Dumbell Island
46. Dungarra Island
47. Esk Island
48. Fitzalan Island
49. Hamilton Island
50. Harold Island
51. Haslewood Island
52. Hayman Island
53. Henning Island
54. Hook Island
55. Ireby Island
56. Langford Island
57. Lupton Island
58. Nicolson Island
59. Perseverance Island
60. Teague Island
61. Titan Island
62. Whitsunday Island
63. Wirrainbeia Island
64. Workington Island
65. Ann Island
66. Cole Island
67. Gunn Island
68. Repair Island
69. Shute Island
70. Tancerd Island
71. Buddibuddi Island
72. Yuindalla Island
73. Petrel Island
74. Arkhurst Island