Airlie Beach in the Stunning Whitsundays

The Whitsundays is one of Australia's best tourist destinations, and idyllic Airlie Beach is the perfect base to start your Whitsunday experience. From Mackay Airport, Airlie Beach is just a 30 km drive north along Shute Harbour Road. On the way, you will see the magnificent islands, such as Hamilton Island and Daydream Island, which were originally formed by a volcanic reaction.

Getting around the Whitsundays

You don't have to drive 1100 km from Brisbane to enjoy a driving holiday...

Stunning Queensland scenery

For anyone travelling the North Queensland coast, Airlie Beach is a fun stopover...

World's largest coral reef

No trip to Airlie Beach is complete without experiencing the natural wonder of...

Accommodation as varied as its visitors

Whether you're in town for one night or two months, you're sure to enjoy...

Gateway to the Whitsundays

Known as the 'gateway to the Whitsundays', Airlie Beach provides travellers with a comfortable and exciting place to stop on their exploration of north Queensland. It is perfect for families, backpackers and newlyweds. Nothing is more romantic than a boat cruise out to the islands or a spot of scuba diving to a coral reef.

You can even catch a helicopter out to the secluded Whitehaven Beach, with its famous white sands. Enjoy a picnic and champagne on this unspoiled piece of paradise.

If there's a style of accommodation you prefer, Airlie Beach has got it: whether it's 5-star resort living, a holiday unit, or a place to pitch a tent. For a family holiday, most resorts offer kids' clubs or babysitting, and many cruises out to the reef ensure as much fun for the younger explorers as the adults. See the reef in a glass-bottomed boat, with a kid's swimming section, and snorkeling lessons.

Retail outlets at Airlie Beach are open seven days a week, and the Saturday markets on the Esplanade are a must for bargain hunters. Airlie Beach is a warm, friendly community located in a stunning part of the Whitsundays.

Airlie Beach Accommodation