Paradise, found: how to spend six days in The Whitsundays

There are so many ways to do the Whitsundays. This world-renowned tropical paradise holds more than coral reef and white sand beaches within its 74 islands and lush mainland. It’s where you can kick back or kick up adventure – or do a bit of both.         

Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the cluster of islands are approximately 53km off the coast and consist of some of the most renowned islands in Australia including Hamilton Island, Hook Island and the famous Heart Reef. The best way to get acquainted with this lovable coral formation is by air, as snorkelling and diving are prohibited to ensure the protection of the natural masterpiece. 

Start your Whitsundays adventure from Brisbane or Cairns with direct flights to Proserpine Airport. Or make an adventure of it and road trip your way to Airlie Beach from the Queensland capital. The journey from Brisbane covers 1,000 kilometres and takes 12 hours, or from Cairns a mere seven.         

Don’t be tempted to put off a holiday in The Whitsundays as a ‘one day when you have time’. This spectacular spot can be explored well in just a few days – if you know how to do it.

And with this six day itinerary, now you know. 

Day 1: Arrive in Airlie Beach and set sail

Arrive in Airlie Beach, just a short drive from tiny Whitsunday Coast Airport. While there are plenty of resorts around the islands, this small coastal town on the edge of the shimmering Coral Sea is the gateway to the Whitsundays’ biggest adventures, with so many wonders right on your doorstep that you can get to in just one day.

Equal parts party paradise and low-key neighbourhood (depending on how you want to spend your time), Airlie Beach will put you in holiday mode from the get-go.

If you’re here early, jump straight into a half-day kayak tour, setting out from the mainland to explore fringing reefs and nearby islands. Otherwise, wander the foreshore, grab a drink by the water (Treehouse does great coffee, or go something a little stronger at Anchor Bar) and settle in – this palm tree lined tropical vista is yours for the next six days.

One of the best ways to get to know The Whitsundays is by sailing. And here, you can jump on board sunset sailings, half-day trips, full day trips or multi-day adventures - with something for every budget. The sunsets here are something else, so raise your glass to the first of many on board Lady Enid Sailing.

Back on dry land, dine tonight at Fish D’Vine, a local hotspot known for the best seafood and mojitos in town (serving over 100 kinds of rum). Or let this guide your way to the area’s best eats.

Overnight: Your choice of Airlie Beach accommodation

Spend today exploring the place that put the Whitsundays on the travel map: it certainly lives up to its reputation. There’s a few ways you can see world-famous Whitehaven Beach, but our favourite? Making it part of an epic day exploring the islands.

Ocean Rafting offers an exhilarating ride to Whitehaven Beach, hiking in Whitsunday Island National Park and snorkelling on the reef in an action-packed day out. Or jump on board with Red Cat Adventures to experience the beauty of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef in one day. For an adventure that runs a little further off the beaten path, let a Ngaro Indigenous guide show you around secluded islands and sacred sites with Whitsunday Paradise Explorer, while learning culture and hunting techniques of the Whitsunday’s oldest custodians.

Whichever tour you choose, you’re in for a day to remember.

Tonight, refuel at casual Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill where the panoramic ocean views and fresh-off-the-boat seafood are best in class.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive with big rewards

Hit the road and head north to discover the beauty of the mainland. Your route will steer you along one of Queensland’s most scenic costal drives to Cape Gloucester. You won’t find crowds here, just Coral Sea views, sandy beaches and the quiet townships of Dingo Beach and Hydeaway Bay – where life’s a little slower, and even better with a kayak or SUP.

Once you’ve had your fill of beachcombing and paddling, make tracks toward Bowen. Stop by the Big Mango for an iconic local photo, then continue on to Horseshoe Bay – one of the region’s best swimming spots. The snorkelling here is great too, with fringing reefs just offshore ripe for exploring.

Clocking up beach time works up a serious appetite, so stop for dinner on the drive back to Airlie Beach at Bird’s Fish Bar in Bowen Fishermans Seafood Co. Right on the marina, this catch is trawler-to-table goodness, with BYO beer and wine.  

Prefer to explore from above? Embark on one The Whitsunday's most luxurious day tours to the Heart Reef on a scenic helicopter ride.

Day 4: Discover waterfalls hidden in the rainforest

Airlie Beach locals love their coffee – and the café culture here is as strong as the midday heat. Don’t miss breakfast at institution Fat Frog Beach Café at Cannonvale Beach on the way out of town to start your day.

You might think the Whitsundays is a palette of blues and whites, but today you’ll discover its lush green on a day trip to Cedar Creek Falls, about 40 minutes’ drive outside Airlie.

Nestled into a natural rock amphitheatre in Conway National Park, this is one of the most refreshing swimming holes you’ll dip into – floating in the clear, cool water surrounded palm trees, cedar and flora. You can explore more of the national park along the hiking trails.

Not driving? Visit Cedar Creek Falls with Red Cat Adventures 'Falls to Paradise' day tour.

This afternoon, kick back and soak up Airlie Beach’s atmosphere with a dip in the lagoon or shopping at the local boutiques. Feast tonight at tropical Garden Bar Bistro: you’ll get a front row seat to sunset while sampling the Australian street-eats style menu.  

Day 5: Embark on an unforgettable reef experience

Rise early and grab breakfast to go from Bohemian Raw Café, home to the best coffee and acai bowls in town. You’re checking out of your Airlie Beach base and into the Great Barrier Reef adventure of a lifetime.

Set sail with Cruise Whitsundays to Hardy Reef and spend the day on the Reefworld pontoon, jumping off into diving and snorkelling, glass bottom boat tours and watching the world beneath from the underwater observatory. But tonight you’re not leaving: be one of the few to watch sunset over the reef, enjoy dinner under the stars, then crawl into your swag for a night under the stars.

How many people can say they’ve slept on the reef?

If you want to up the ante and get a window seat to the reef from your own plush bed, book the night below deck at ReefSuites, Australia’s first underwater hotel. You’ll be counting fish to sleep, not sheep.

Day 6: Soak in the serenity

Wake up as the sun’s first rays hit the water.

It’s a soulful experience to breathe in the quiet and have breakfast as the reef and its colourful inhabitants stir to life for another day. Then, board the boat back to Airlie Beach and take in your last views of the Whitsundays Islands as you cruise.

Back on the mainland, you might have time for one last dip at Airlie Beach lagoon, check out the markets (held every Saturday morning at the foreshore; be sure to grab a cold brew coffee from Mr Bean), and wander the marina to soak it all in before your return journey.

Have a little more time up your sleeve? Head on your own multi-day sailing adventure in paradise, or drive north to Cairns via some of Queensland's prettiest spots.