Frequently Asked Questions

The Whitsundays is perfectly positioned in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, along Queensland, Australia’s stunning central east coast. This tropical paradise sits between Mackay and Townsville, approximately 630km south of Cairns and 1,100km north of Brisbane.

The region has 74 island wonders, including the famous Whitsunday Island where you’ll find the iconic Whitehaven Beach. The main hub of Airlie Beach on the mainland is the gateway to these magnificent islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

For travellers planning their journey, The Whitsundays is situated approximately 400km north of the Tropic of Capricorn (which crosses at Rockhampton), placing it in a perfect tropical climate zone with warm temperatures year-round.

The strategic location makes The Whitsundays ideal for experiencing the best of Queensland’s tropical north and the Great Barrier Reef, while still being accessible via direct flights from major Australian cities.

The Whitsundays is truly one of Australia’s most extraordinary treasures, offering experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else in the world:

• 74 Island Wonders: The Whitsundays comprises 74 stunning tropical islands, with only 4 currently inhabited. Each island has its own unique character, from the luxurious resorts of Hamilton Island to the natural beauty of Whitsunday Island.

• Heart of the Great Barrier Reef: The Whitsundays sits in the perfect position to experience the world’s largest living structure. Here, you can snorkel or dive amongst vibrant coral gardens and an amazing diversity of marine life just a short boat ride from shore.

• Whitehaven Beach: Consistently rated among the world’s best beaches, Whitehaven’s 7km of pristine silica sand is so pure it squeaks beneath your feet. The swirling patterns at Hill Inlet create a mesmerising natural artwork that changes with each tide.

• Sailing Paradise: With calm, protected waters, consistent winds, and short distances between anchorages, The Whitsundays is recognised as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations.

• Ancient Culture: The Whitsundays are the traditional sea country of the Ngaro people, one of the earliest recorded Aboriginal groups in Queensland. Their history dates back over 9,000 years.

• Unique Wildlife: From majestic humpback whales during their annual migration (July-September) to resident sea turtles, dugongs, and countless tropical fish species, The Whitsundays offers extraordinary wildlife encounters.

• Perfect Climate: The Whitsundays offers ideal tropical holiday conditions year-round with an average of 274 sunny days per year and water temperatures ranging from 23°C to 29°C.

The Whitsunday Islands form one of Australia’s most spectacular natural treasures – a breathtaking group of 74 island wonders scattered throughout the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

These stunning islands were named by Captain James Cook, who sailed through the passage in 1770 on what he believed was Whit Sunday (though he was actually a day off due to crossing the international date line). Only 4 of the 74 islands are inhabited, with the remaining 70 untouched islands preserving their pristine natural beauty.

The Whitsundays are a stunning collection of 74 tropical islands scattered throughout the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Only 4 of these islands are inhabited and offer accommodation (Hamilton, Hayman, Daydream, & Long) while the remaining 70 are preserved as national parks.

This combination of developed and untouched islands offers visitors an incredible variety – from luxury resorts to secluded beaches where yours might be the only footprints that day. The islands range from Whitsunday Island (109 square kilometres) to tiny uninhabited islets, all positioned close enough for perfect island-hopping adventures.

The Whitsundays is located approximately 2,000 kilometres north of Sydney. The most convenient way to travel between the two is by air, with direct flights from Sydney to Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine) or Hamilton Island Airport taking around 2.5 hours.

Multiple airlines offer daily flights on this route, making it easy to plan your tropical escape from Sydney. If you’re considering a road trip, driving would take about 21-24 hours of continuous driving, so most travellers break this journey into several days to enjoy the spectacular east coast of Australia along the way.

For a truly memorable journey, many visitors combine The Whitsundays with other Queensland destinations like Brisbane or the Gold Coast on a longer east coast exploration.

The Whitsundays is easily accessible by air, road, rail, and sea.

By Air:

• Fly directly into either Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine) or Hamilton Island Airport
• Major airlines offer daily flights from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns
• Flight times: Brisbane (1h 40m), Sydney (2.5h), Melbourne (3h)
• Airport transfers to Airlie Beach are available via shuttle bus or taxi from Proserpine, or ferry from Hamilton Island

By Road:

• Airlie Beach is located just off the Bruce Highway
• Driving distances: Brisbane (12-13h), Cairns (7h), Townsville (3h), Mackay (2h)
• Car hire available in all major centres and airports
• Greyhound coaches service Airlie Beach daily

By Rail:

• Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland train runs between Brisbane and Cairns
• Stop at Proserpine station, then take a shuttle to Airlie Beach (25 mins)

By Sea:

• Private vessels can access The Whitsundays via multiple marinas
• Several mainland ports offer secure moorings and marine facilities

Once in The Whitsundays, island connections are available via regular ferry services, private charters, or scenic flights.

The Whitsundays is serviced by two airports, giving you flexible options for your journey:

Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) – Located near Proserpine, 30 minutes’ drive from Airlie Beach

• Direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne
• Airlines: Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas
• Airport transfers to Airlie Beach available via shuttle bus (pre-booking recommended) or taxi

Great Barrier Reef Airport (HTI) – Located on Hamilton Island

• Direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns
• Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar
• Ferry transfers to other islands and Airlie Beach via Cruise Whitsundays, meeting all scheduled flights

Flight Duration:

• Brisbane: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Sydney: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Melbourne: 3 hours
• Cairns: 1 hour 20 minutes

Connecting flights are available through Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne international airports for those travelling from international destinations.

Booking flights and airport transfers well in advance is strongly recommended during peak holiday periods (school holidays, Christmas, and Easter).

The Whitsundays offers several public transport options to help you explore the region:

Whitsunday Transit

• Regular bus services connecting Proserpine, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Pocket, and Shute Harbour
• Over 70 services daily throughout the Whitsunday area
• Airport shuttle services meet all flights at Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine)
• Timetables are available online or at the Whitsunday Visitor Information Centre

Water Transport

• Cruise Whitsundays operates ferry services between Port of Airlie and Hamilton Island Marina, with departures approximately every 3 hours.
• Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island journey time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Whitsunday Water Taxi Transfers provides private water taxi services around the islands for more flexible travel options.

Taxis and Rideshare

• Whitsunday Taxis operate throughout the mainland area
• Call (07) 4944 4999 to book
• Uber is now available in Airlie Beach and surrounding areas, offering a convenient alternative for getting around.

Car Hire

• Multiple car rental companies at both airports and in Airlie Beach
• Pre-booking is recommended during peak holiday periods

For visitors without vehicles, staying in central Airlie Beach puts most amenities, restaurants, and tour departures within walking distance, making public transport needs minimal.

The Whitsunday Islands do not allow guests to bring vehicles. Island ferry services do not transport personal vehicles. Cars should be parked on the mainland.

There are pet-friendly accommodations, activities, and beaches in The Whitsundays. Check out our guide on dog-friendly holidays.

Yes, camping is available on several islands throughout The Whitsundays, offering a unique and affordable way to experience this tropical paradise.

Where You Can Camp:

• Whitsunday Island (6 campsites including the famous Whitehaven Beach)
• Hook Island (4 campsites including Curlew Beach)
• South Molle Island

Essential Information:

• Camping permits are required
• Bookings can be made up to 11 months in advance through Queensland Parks website
• Most campsites are accessible only by boat
• Scamper and Whitsunday Island Taxi offer water transfers to camping islands (from $65 per person)
• Campsites have basic facilities (non-flush toilets, picnic tables) but no fresh water
• Campers must be self-sufficient with food, water, and camping equipment
• No open fires permitted (use fuel stoves only)
• All rubbish must be taken with you when leaving

The best time for camping is April to November when weather conditions are most stable. Camping on The Whitsunday Islands provides a true back-to-nature experience with pristine beaches often all to yourself.

Book well in advance for peak periods and school holidays as these magical camping spots are highly sought after.

The Whitsundays is a year-round destination, so the best time to visit depends on your preferred travel experience. The dry season (May to October) offers sunny, mild days, while the wet season (November to April) brings warmer temperatures and lush tropical scenery. Choose the season that suits your travel style best.

Whale season in The Whitsundays runs from June to early October, with peak sightings from July to early September.

Over 30,000 humpback whales migrate through The Whitsundays’ sheltered, warm waters during these magical winter months. These majestic creatures travel over 10,000km from Antarctica to breed, calve, and nurse their young in this protected marine sanctuary.

The calm, clear waters of The Whitsundays provide perfect conditions for whale watching, with common behaviours including:

• Breaching (jumping out of the water)
• Tail slapping
• Spy hopping (raising their head vertically)
• Mothers teaching calves essential survival skills

Lucky visitors might spot Migaloo, the famous all-white humpback whale who occasionally passes through The Whitsundays, or other special whales like Bahloo (a white whale with black spots).

Many tour operators offer dedicated whale-watching experiences during this season, though you’re likely to spot whales on any boat trip around The Whitsundays during these months. Book a sailing trip, day cruise, or scenic flight for the best viewing opportunities.

Enjoy sailing through clear waters, snorkelling or diving among colourful coral reefs, and taking scenic flights over iconic locations like Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach. Visit secluded beaches, take guided bushwalks through Conway National Park, and enjoy mountain biking trails or 4WD adventures. Back in Airlie Beach, explore boutique shopping, lively markets, and a diverse range of dining options, then unwind with live music or cocktails by the waterfront as the sun sets. The Choices are almost endless!

The Whitsundays offers exceptional fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers:

Mainland Hotspots:

• Shute Harbour’s public fishing pontoon – great for giant trevally and Spanish mackerel
• Cannonvale Beach – family-friendly spot for whiting and flathead
• Rock walls around Whitsunday Marine Club – target fingermark, bream and mangrove jack
• Peter Faust Dam (Lake Proserpine) – renowned for trophy-sized barramundi (requires a Stocked Impoundment Permit)

Island Fishing:

• Hook Island (Nara Inlet and Mackerel Bay) – popular local fishing grounds
• Whitsunday Island’s southern end – excellent for sweetlip, cod and coral trout
• Double Cone Islands – fish the shallow reefs near bommies
• South Molle and Hayman Islands – good reef fishing areas

Types of Fish: You can catch coral trout, red emperor, sweetlip, nannygai, cod, trevally, Spanish mackerel, tuna and the prized barramundi.

Fishing Essentials:

• No recreational fishing license is required in Queensland waters
• Size and bag limits apply – check current regulations
• Zoning restrictions exist throughout the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
• Several local tackle shops in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale and Proserpine can provide gear, bait and local knowledge

Multiple fishing charters operate from Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island, offering half-day and full-day experiences with all equipment provided.

For zoning maps and fishing regulations, visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website or pick up information from the Whitsunday Visitor Information Centre.

The Whitsundays region offers several exciting options for off-road adventures:

4WD Destinations:

• Cathu State Forest (approximately 50km south of Proserpine) – The main 4WD area in the region with public access roads along the rugged Clarke Range
• Captain’s Crossing in Mia Mia State Forest – 4WD-only access, bush camping permitted with a permit
• For more extensive 4WD experiences, Cape Palmerston National Park is about 1.5 hours from Mackay and offers beautiful coastal 4WD tracks

Mountain Biking:

• Conway National Park – Recently opened to mountain bikes with the 27km Conway Circuit offering spectacular rainforest scenery and coastal views
• South Molle Island – The only island mountain biking trail in The Whitsundays, with unique trails through native bush featuring ocean vistas
• Airlie Beach Mountain Bike Trails – A developing project including approximately 50km of new mountain bike trails near Airlie Beach

Trail Bike Riding:

• Registered trail bikes are permitted in Cathu and Crediton State Forests on open roads and designated tracks
• A special permit is not required unless it’s for a commercial activity, organised group, or competitive event

Rentals & Tours:

• Bike and Hike Whitsunday operates guided electric mountain biking tours in the Whitsunday Islands National Park

Always check current conditions and regulations before heading out, as access may change seasonally, particularly during wet weather. Contact the Whitsunday Visitor Information Centre for the latest information on tracks and permits.

The Airlie Beach markets are held every Saturday from 7am -1pm. You will find the markets on the Airlie Beach foreshore. The open-air markets include premier art and handcraft showcases, locally made jewellery, clothing, souvenirs, books, fruit and vegetables and lots of entertainment.

The Bowen markets take place on Sunday mornings at Hansen Park, on Horseshoe Bay Road from 8am – 12pm.

Absolutely! The Whitsundays offer convenient access to the Great Barrier Reef. You can choose from various tours departing daily from Airlie Beach and island resorts, including full-day snorkelling and diving trips, overnight reef stays, and scenic helicopter or seaplane flights.

Travelling by boat, it takes approximately 2 hours from Airlie Beach or 1.5 hours from Hamilton Island to reach the reef. Alternatively, scenic flights by helicopter or seaplane offer a quick 30-minute journey with spectacular aerial views.

Heart Reef, an iconic natural formation, is located in The Whitsundays. Although swimming or snorkelling directly at Heart Reef isn’t permitted due to its protected status, you can experience its beauty from above with scenic helicopter or seaplane tours.

Yes, several dive operators in The Whitsundays offer PADI Open Water certification courses. These courses typically span a few days and include training dives in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands.

Marine stingers can be present in Whitsunday waters, particularly between October and May. Wearing a full-length stinger suit greatly reduces the risk of stings and provides excellent sun protection. Many local operators provide suits as part of their tours.

Shark encounters are rare, but caution is advised. Avoid swimming at dusk, dawn, or night, and never swim in murky waters or near harbours. Always follow local guidelines and safety advice from tour operators.

Pack casual, comfortable clothing suitable for tropical weather, including swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, casual footwear, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Consider soft luggage for boat stays, as hard suitcases can be difficult to store onboard.

Plan ahead by booking popular activities like sailing trips and reef excursions early. Allow flexibility in your itinerary for weather-dependent activities and combine island, mainland, and reef experiences for the best overall visit.

Yes, Tourism Whitsundays offers an online visitors guide, which can be viewed digitally. Residents of Australia and New Zealand may request a hard copy via mail.

Detailed information about hosting business events, meetings, and conferences is available on the Whitsundays Business Events page on the Tourism Whitsundays website.

Stay connected locally by tuning into popular radio stations such as 101.9 FM Star FM or 1026 AM 4MK for news, music, and local updates.