12 ultimate adventure activities in The Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a mecca for the adventurous. Don’t believe us? This is a part of the Sunshine State rich in islands, reefs, and rainforests, boasting a reputation for snorkelling, swimming, sailing and much, much more. Especially around the Whitsundays, a cluster of 74 idyllic islands nestled against the Great Barrier Reef. Ahead of your next visit, here sit the 12 ultimate adventure activities in the Whitsundays.

1. Skydive down to Airlie Beach

Take in the unbelievably beautiful Great Barrier Reef from above with Skydive Airlie Beach. You’ll plummet 15,000 feet in a tandem, travelling up to 200 km/hr taking in the views of Hayman and Hamilton Island on your descent.

2. Sleep on the reef

Drift off to sleep right above the coral thanks to ReefSleep Whitsundays, one of the best adventure activities in the Whitsundays. This two-day, one-night trip will see you spend the night at a suavely decorated pontoon permanently moored off Hardy Reef.

3. Hike Conway National Park

Work up a sweat hiking Conway National Park, a luscious section of tropical rainforest scattered with coastal township that’s another adventure activity in the Whitsundays. Most famously it's also home to the 27.1km Conway circuit, a shared trail between walkers and cyclists.

4. Take a tour by paddle

Cruise your way around the clear waters that surround the Whitsundays with Salty Dog Kayaking. The experienced operators offer single and multi-day camping tours, which will immerse you among the ample natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, like Whitehaven Beach.

5. Go bareboating

One of the best adventure experiences in The Whitsundays is undeniably the chance to go bareboating with your friends - this is one of the only places in the world where you can captain your own boat without a licence with charter opportunities commonplace.

6. Bike South Molle Island

Rolling green hills and incredible coastal views are promised to accompany any mountain bike ride through the idyllic haven of South Molle Island, which is home to the only island bike trail in the Whitsundays.

7. Pitch a tent in the middle of nowhere

Camping enthusiasts may be tempted by the chance to pitch a tent on a remote island of the Whitsundays. The rugged Hook Island is one of the most popular places to spend the night off-grid among its cluster of beachfront camping sites (just don’t forget your permit).

8. Jump aboard Red Cat Adventures

Leave your Whitsundays escapades to the experts - Red Cat Adventures is an award-winning charter boat company which specialises in adventure-laden tours around the region and its iconic landmarks.

9. Venture into uninhabited islands

Take a walk on the wild side (quite literally) with Ocean Rafting’s multi-award winning exploration of the Whitsundays’ uninhabited islands. During your time in the wilderness you’ll snorkel protected areas in Hook and Border Island, thanks to the company’s access to special permits.

10. Explore the high seas at high-speed

Get a glimpse of the idyllic waterways while revving your way through the region by jet ski. Whitsunday Jetski Tours are one of the leading operators and home to an ever-popular open water tour, cruising Daydream and South Molle Islands.

11. Soar over the famous Heart Reef

From the seat of your private charter plane with Air Whitsunday Seaplanes you’ll make your way over the Whitsundays and across the iconic Great Barrier Reef. From 150 metres above sea level you’ll get an ideal view for taking in the coral and aquamarine waters below, including the famous Heart Reef. Or, go all out on a day of indulgence with Journey to the Heart.

12. Get to know the original inhabitants

Immerse yourself in the history of the region with Whitsundays Paradise Explorer’s N’garo Indigenous Tour. You’ll join an exclusive group for the day navigating caves featuring Indigenous art, learn to throw traditional fishing spears, and keep an eye out for native flora and fauna along the way.