whitsunday islands

Information
Reader reviews

Whitsunday Islands

This article gives a general overview of Whitsunday Islands. Please visit our review section for reader contributions about Whitsunday Islands.

On the eastcoast of Australia (Queensland), in between Mackay in the south and Bowen in the north, there is a place which is heaven on earth: the Whitsunday Islands. These tropical islands are just breathtaking with white powder sand beaches, green forests and beautiful rocks giving way to a deep blue ocean with gorgeous coral reef. One of the finest beaches here is: Whitehaven Beach. When you have fully absorbed the view you can enjoy one of many activities which the Whitsunday Islands have to offer.

When you're here in between June and September, you have the chance to spot a 16 meters long hunch-back whale who come there to give birth. Furthermore there are various resorts from budget to luxurious Whitsundays accommodation where you can sit back and relax with a cocktail in your hand at one of the fine beaches. You can also do some diving, snorkeling, fishing, bushwalking and at night there are some good parties.

The best way to experience the Whitsunday Islands is by sailing boat. The calm waters surrounding the islands are perfect for sailing and this will give you the best way to view most of the gorgeous area. You can go island hopping for a day or do an organised tour and visit three islands a day. You can even do the steering of the boat yourself, after instruction of course. The number of boats to choose from is enormous, but to make the most of your Whitsunday's trip, take the time to pick the boat that suits your needs best. Some boats carry up to 50 people and are great for anyone looking for a party, other boats aim for a more relaxing and intimate Whitsundays experience, with a maximum of 15 people on a much smaller boat. For a nice example of a smaller, more relaxing boat, take a look at the Iceberg, which was originally built for the Sydney to Hobarth sailing race, but now has everything to give you a great sailing experience around the islands.

If you want to be sure your Whitsundays adventure is everything you want it to be, and if you have the opportunity, try keeping an eye on the weather as you determine the day to set sail. Beautiful as the islands are in any kind of weather, the sun definitely adds to it! And if you really want to be sure you get to the Whitehaven Beach Lookout at the right time, look at the tides as well. The characteristic way Whitehaven's magically white sand glows through the crystal clear water is best seen at low tide!

In Airlie Beach there are many touroperators where you can book various sailing trips at various prices. One of these operators is Beaches, who also offer accommodation in Airlie Beach. You can choose a trip for several days including camping on one of the islands. This is a great way to meet new people and to enjoy all the beauty the Whitsunday Islands have on offer!