Airlie Beach Explorer Sightseeing Tour

Ticket Costs

• Adult: $95.00

• Child (4–15 years): $75.00

• Under 4: Free (must be on a parent’s lap or in a child seat)

• Tour includes guided transport in a comfy air-conditioned van, local commentary, and water bottle refills (BYO bottle).

Save $19 when booking direct — check availability for seasonal specials!

Overview

If you’re short on time but keen to soak up the real Airlie Beach, the Airlie Beach Explorer Sightseeing Tour is your go-to. Run by local legend Cherene from Driftwood Tours, this 2-hour van tour is all about good vibes, jaw-dropping views, and hidden gems only locals usually know about. With just 11 spots per tour, it’s personal, relaxed, and full of character — much like Airlie itself.

Perfect for cruisers, first-timers, or anyone keen to get their bearings in paradise, you’ll cruise around in air-conditioned comfort as your guide shares insider stories, local history, and photo-worthy spots galore. It’s quick, easy, and a total crowd-pleaser.

Key Details

• Duration: ~2 hours

• Group Size: Max 11 guests — small group for a personal experience

• Fitness Level: Super easy — minimal walking required

• Suitable For: All ages

• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

• Meals & Drinks: Optional stop at Northerlies for a drink (extra cost), water refills available (BYO bottle)

• Facilities: Public restrooms available at most stops

• Cancellation Policy: 24-hour free cancellation with full refund

• Local Tip: Ask Cherene about the old boat ramp ghost story at Shute Harbour — it’s a cracker!

Itinerary

Hop aboard your comfy, air-conditioned van and settle in for a breezy ride through Airlie Beach’s most iconic — and secret — spots.

Stop 1: Shute Harbour
Start with a visit to three stunning lookouts overlooking Long Island and Hamilton Island. It’s a postcard-worthy view every time. Cherene shares tales of shipwrecks, tides, and turtle sightings as you breathe in that fresh sea air.

Stop 2: Mandalay Point
Next, it’s off to this peaceful peninsula with its quirky open-air chapel and serene Coral Sea views. It’s a spot most tourists miss — a little slice of heaven with a side of local lore.

Stop 3: Scenic Lookouts
Airlie Beach is full of lookout points, and you’ll visit at least three. Each one paints a different picture — think rainforest, reef, and rolling hills. Keep your phone ready — this is prime selfie territory!

Stop 4: Northerlies Beachside Bar
Just a short drive from town, this beachy bar is a fave with locals. Dip your toes in the sand, grab a cold drink, and soak in the relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a cheeky tropical escape without leaving the mainland.

Final Stop: Coral Sea Marina
End your tour at the vibrant Coral Sea Marina, home to sleek yachts, cafes, and killer views. This is where many Whitsundays adventures kick off — and it’s the perfect spot to plan your next one.

Reviews

Guests can’t stop raving about how much they learn and see in such a short time. The small group format means everyone gets a chance to ask questions and interact with Cherene, whose passion for Airlie Beach shines through. Most folks say they leave feeling more connected to the town — and with a camera roll full of magic.

What to Bring

• Refillable water bottle (eco-friendly points for you!)

• Sunglasses and a hat — Queensland sun doesn’t mess around

• Comfy clothes and thongs or sandals

• Your camera or phone — the views are next-level

• A few bucks if you fancy a drink at Northerlies

• A light jacket for winter mornings (yes, it gets cool here too!)

Top 5 Reasons to Book This Tour

• 🚐 Explore Airlie like a local with a fun and knowledgeable guide

• 🌴 Discover hidden lookouts and peaceful pockets off the tourist trail

• 📸 Snap incredible views of the Whitsundays in just two hours

• 🍹 Chill at Northerlies Beach Bar with a beachfront drink option

• 🐢 Perfect for cruisers or short-stay travellers looking to make the most of their time