Take a trip to Whitsundays on your Australia vacation.
The Whitsunday Islands are a popular tourist destination on Australia vacations off the central coast of Queensland, comprised of a collection of 74 islands spread across the Great Barrier Reef in the Coral Sea. Most of the islands are deserted but there are eight that offer accommodation and tourist facilities.
Enhancing any Australia vacation, the Whitsundays also offer great beaches and an intimate atmosphere and can be visited either by taking a cruise or staying at one of the many resorts that dot the islands.
Whitsunday Islands Vacation Highlights
The Whitsundays are named for uninhabited Whitsunday Island, the largest in the group, which is home to the famed Whitehaven Beach. It’s easily reached via the numerous cruise tours that run from the nearby resorts and from Airlie Beach.The most important island to the tourism industry however is Hamilton Island. Despite being the most populated of the Whitsunday Islands, 70% of Hamilton Island is a national park, offering natural beauty and good scenic walks. There is also a quality golf course here.
Hayman Island is the most northern island and is the epitome of a tropical paradise. Activities include everything from bushwalks to excellent diving and snorkeling.
Daydream Island is a haven for wildlife lovers, where it's possible to hand-feed stingrays, sharks, and fish, and where it's not unusual to see dolphins and turtles in the nearby waters.
Long Island (no, not that one!) is closest to the mainland and is a great destination for hikers. Palm Bay is one of its secluded delights, showing off the Whitsundays at their very best.
Airlie Beach is located on the mainland itself and is the jumping-off point for many Whitsunday and Great Barrier Reef excursions. If you'd rather stay in a local community rather than at a resort, while still having the Whitsundays at your fingertips, Airlie Beach is a great option.
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