There’s a load on offer while exploring the Whitsundays. This archipelago is in the centre of the Great Barrier Reef and has a plethora of dive sites, viewpoints, relaxation spots and more.
Our 1 week bareboat itinerary is a great way to explore the islands, however, we have summarised our favourite spots to help you plan your trip, below.
Relaxing
The Whitsunday Islands feel as if they have been specially designed for relaxation. They ooze peace and serenity. Even the busier, more touristy beaches (such as Whitehaven) are quite the escape. Other areas we recommend for peace and tranquillity include:
- Tongue Bay: not only is this a breath-takingly beautiful beach, but it is also where scenes for the movies Fool’s Gold and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, were filmed.
- Butterfly Bay: this part of Hook Island is known for its population of butterflies – as its name suggests. However, there is also the opportunity to see remarkable marine life (such as giant manta rays) from either your yacht or from under the waves.
- Border Island: this uninhabited island offers sanctuary to rare bush orchids, is framed by spectacular coral reefs and – if you fancy a hike – provides panoramic views from the hilltops… just be sure to pack enough water and sun cream if you do decide to hit the trails!
Exploring
Many areas of the Whitsundays offer luscious jungle to explore with spectacular viewpoints, protected dive sites and unique biodiversity. Our top spots to explore are:
- Stonehaven Bay – Climb the hills and look out for their creature of legend, a tadpole-looking sea-monster similar to Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster.
- Nara Inlet: explore the Ngaro Sea Trail cultural site, admire stunning cave art from the Aboriginal people who once lived here; or enjoy a peaceful swim and snorkel in the calm island waters.
- Long Island: Home to Molle National Park, this lush rainforest island is home to 211 identified animal species, including Australia’s beloved Koala, as well as extensive hiking and cycling trails.
Eating and Drinking
There are a few eateries scattered across the Islands, however, Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach are the two main hubs for restaurants and bars. Below we have summarised our top spots:
- Inkstone Kitchen And Bar, Daydream island. The perfect spot for a great-tasting bar and grill dinner (or lunch!) – be sure to book in advance if possible.
- Beach Club Restaurant, Hamilton Island, is a romantic, ocean-side setting, with exquisite meals and excellent service.
- Pebble Beach, Hamilton Island, boasts a stunning view (especially at sunset)
- Sorrento, Airlie Beach. A stones-throw from the marina, this restaurant offers fresh seafood, pizza and other holiday favourites (such as a caesar salad and cocktails!)
Underwater Adventures
As the Whitsundays are part of The Great Barrier Reef, most areas are protected and teeming with life – making for some of the best underwater experiences in the world. With this being said, our favourite dive spots around The Whitsundays are:
- Hook Island: some of the most spectacular coral reef preservations on the Great Barrier Reef are found here, as well as coves.
- Border Island: The fringing reef of Cateran Bay is a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelling.
- Whitehaven beach: Not only is this beach beautiful, it’s the perfect playing ground for children and new snorkelers – with crystal clear visibility, gentle currents and stunning marine life, even in the shallows.
- Butterfly Bay: The perfect intermediate spot for snorkelling if you’re after corals and marine life with a kaleidoscope of colours.
When entering the ocean in The Whitsundays and surrounding areas, we highly recommend wearing wetsuits to avoid any jellyfish stings (and sunburns!)
