Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the Coral Sea, the horizon painted in turquoise and gold, and the promise of adventure at every turn. Airlie Beach is more than a gateway to the Whitsundays—it’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best of East Coast Australia.
As the starting point for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach offers a blend of adrenaline-fueled activities, serene escapes, vibrant nightlife, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it all here.
Dundee Adventure presents your expert guide to the top things to do in Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays:
Why Visit Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays?
One look at the Whitsundays’ azure waters and endless blue skies is enough to see why this region is an Australian icon. Nestled in tropical Queensland, Airlie Beach boasts year-round warm weather, palm-lined streets, boutique shops, lively bars, and waterfront dining. With the average temperature rarely dipping below 25°C, it’s a true summer paradise.
Airlie Beach is both a hub for adventure and a place to unwind—think tranquil lagoons, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches.
Top Things to Do in Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays
Adrenaline Adventures
Skydive Over the Whitsundays
Experience the ultimate thrill with a tandem skydive over the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef. Freefall from up to 15,000 feet for breathtaking views of turquoise waters and lush islands.
Book Your 15,000 ft Skydive |
Book Your 8,000 ft Skydive
Whitsundays Jetski Tours
Feel the spray as you ride a jetski past vibrant reefs and hidden coves. Spot sea turtles and dolphins on these guided eco-adventures.
Airlie Beach Jet Ski Tour |
Ultimate Island Trek |
Two Island Safari
Scenic Flights & Helicopter Rides
Take in the vastness of the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands from above. Choose a fixed-wing scenic flight or a luxury helicopter tour for unforgettable aerial views.
Fixed-Wing Scenic Flight |
Helicopter Tour
Relax & Rejuvenate
Swim in the Airlie Beach Lagoon: Free, family-friendly, and right in the heart of town.
Lounge at Cannonvale Beach: Calm waters and shady spots, perfect for unwinding.
Catch Sunset at Hydeaway Bay & Mandalay Bay: Stunning views and peaceful settings.
Stroll Through Airlie Beach Markets: Every Saturday, shop for local crafts and fresh produce.
Sail at Sunset: Join a sunset sailing tour for a serene escape on the Coral Sea. Book Your Sunset Sail
Explore the Whitsundays
Day Trips: Explore the best of the Whitsundays with a day tour—boating, beach time, and snorkeling included.
Ocean Rafting Snorkel and Beach Tour
Choose the Northern Exposure for extra snorkeling or the Southern Lights for more beach time. Or combine with a scenic flight for the ultimate adventure.
Thundercat Adventures
A high-speed catamaran tour for those who want speed, comfort, and plenty of snorkeling and beach time. Book Thundercat Tour
Whitehaven Beach Day Tour
Relax on the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, explore Hill Inlet, and enjoy a BBQ lunch on the sand. Book Whitehaven Tour
Tongarra Day Trip
A laid-back, all-inclusive sailing trip to hidden gems and snorkeling spots. Book Tongarra Trip
Overnight Sailing: For a deeper Whitsundays experience, choose an overnight sailing trip—enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, star-gazing, and making new friends.
Explore Overnight Sailing Trips
Backpacker, Adult-Only, & Family-Friendly Boats
- Atlantic Clipper: The most social boat in the Whitsundays—perfect for party lovers.
- New Horizon: Balanced fun and relaxation on a classic tall ship.
- Eureka: Speed sailing and small group adventure.
- Powerplay: Sociable, relaxed, and perfect for adults.
- ‘O’ Nice: Family-friendly, with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sea scooters for all ages.
Outer Reef Adventures
Take a Great Barrier Reef snorkel day trip to two vibrant coral gardens, with lunch and drinks included. Or stay overnight with Reef Sleep and Reef Suite for a once-in-a-lifetime experience—sleeping under the stars on the reef itself.
Nature & Hiking
Honeyeater Lookout: Panoramic sunrise views over Airlie Beach and the islands.
Mount Rooper Circuit: Challenging hike with stunning vistas of the Whitsundays.
Falls to Paradise Tour: Swim in tropical waterfalls at Cedar Creek Falls, then relax at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill.
Airlie Beach is the ultimate launchpad for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands, but it’s much more than a gateway. From heart-pounding adventures and serene escapes to lively nightlife and amazing dining, this tropical gem offers something for every traveler.
Why add Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays to your bucket list? Year-round sunshine, friendly locals, and endless activities for backpackers, families, and adventure seekers alike. Every day is a new adventure—whether you’re jet skiing, sailing, snorkeling, hiking, or just soaking in the sun.
If you’re planning your next East Coast escape, make sure to add Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays to your bucket list—it’s a destination you won’t want to miss.
