*Airlie Beach, The Whitsundays, Queensland*

Welcome to
Airlie Beach

A place to stay a while

In the midst of the Whitsundays region, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the tourist-tempting islands, sits Airlie Beach. Long considered the gateway to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, this coastal town is a popular stopover, but a place well worth lingering longer.

It’s eternal summer up here, where holidaymakers gather year-round. This coastal town isn’t exclusive, but in terms of accommodation there’s something to cater to every budget, from budget hostels to resorts well-versed in luxury.

Things to do in Airlie Beach

To chat face-to-face to a local about all the best things to see and do in Airlie Beach, step into a Visitor Information Centre.

Surrounded by sea, this is a place to get your gills wet. Jump aboard a day trip, overnight cruise or private charter and explore the 74 Whitsunday Islands nearby, using Abell Point Marina, the Port of Airlie or Shute Harbour as a launchpad. Gliding the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef by boat is the best way to explore, and offers easy access for snorkelling and diving the rainbow-hued reefs below.

You can keep to your own two feet instead, of course. Wander the Bicentennial Boardwalks, or work up a sweat further afield with a hike or mountain bike along Conway National Park’s circuits. Or, stroll along the sand closer to town at one of the district’s beloved beaches; there’s Cannonvale, Shingley, Airlie and Boathaven to choose from.

Getting to Airlie Beach is easy; domestic airlines land at neighbouring Proserpine, just thirty minutes away from Airlie Beach central. But perhaps you fancy a road trip? The route from Cairns is well travelled - head south from the city, weaving through Townsville and a gaggle of small towns on the 7.5 hour drive dubbed the Pacific Coast Way.