Last updated on December 5th, 2024 at 04:22 am
Airlie Beach is a very popular coastal town roughly halfway between Cairns and Brisbane in the state of Queensland, Australia.
You’ve likely heard of this Australian gem, known as the gateway to the renowned Whitsunday Islands, and home to the world’s most beautiful beach – Whitehaven Beach.
Paradise islands and the world’s most beautiful beach aside, is Airlie Beach worth visiting?
We lived in Mackay for 7 years, which was located only an hour and a half drive to Airlie Beach. Needless to say, we spent a lot of our weekends living our best lives in this Australian paradise.
We look forward answering the million dollar question “Is Airlie Beach worth visiting?”, and showing exactly why Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination in Australia.
Is Airlie Beach Worth Visiting?
Airlie Beach is one of Queensland’s and Australia’s best destinations, the seaside town can be visited on a long weekend, as part of an epic East Coast road trip, or as a holiday destination.
As mentioned above, a visit to Whitehaven Beach is a one of Australia’s best attractions and a must-visit for first-time visitors on a day trip from Airlie Beach .
However, Airlie Beach has much more to offer than just Whitehaven Beach. In this post we’ll delve into the numerous incredible Airlie Beach attractions that you simply can’t miss during your visit. These include seeing some of Australia’s famous wildlife, Mother Nature, and fun places to chill for hours, for free!
In fact, nearly half of these activities are free.
Another reason that makes Airlie Beach a must-see destination is that it caters to every type of tourist, from budget backpackers to luxury holidaymakers, to families looking for an affordable Australian holiday.
You may have guessed by now that we truly believe Airlie Beach is worth visiting. But don’t just take our word for it, if you’re still undecided, let’s explore the best things to do in Airlie Beach so you can decide for yourself.
When is the Best Time to Visit Airlie Beach?
Every visit to Airlie Beach is a great time guaranteed. But let’s check out when is the BEST time to visit Airlie Beach to be sure to make the most of your Australia holiday.
There are certain times when you may want to come up with another plan for your Australia trip. The rain season can be pretty wet (January – April), although the temperature will still be nice.
The rain season is between the months of January and April.
We can assume that you wouldn’t want your view of the world’s most beautiful beach to be obscured by a veil of grey mist!
This time of year (January-April) is also Cyclone season. In 2017 Cyclone Debbie was a direct hit on Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands.
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Another important factor to consider is school holidays. During school holidays Airlie Beach gets extremely busy, so plan ahead and get your booking in on time.
Although we are not sure which of Australia’s best attractions are not busy during this time, if you know of any please let us know!
Getting to Airlie Beach
Getting to Airlie Beach is pretty straightforward and we have you covered so you can reach this Australian gem no matter which transport you opt for.
Getting to Airlie Beach by Car:
Getting to Airlie Beach from Brisbane is only a short 12 hour spin in Australian terms! This drive is pretty straightforward along the Bruce Highway the entire journey, just make sure to check out Mackay on your way.
Getting to Airlie Beach from Cairns is a much shorter 7-hour drive, and again, another straightforward drive via the Bruce Highway (just in the other direction!)
Airlie Beach is located around 30 minutes from the Bruce Highway which runs through the town of Proserpine. You’ll be turning off for Airlie Beach from Proserpine.
Getting to Airlie Beach by Air:
If you don’t fancy an Australian road trip then fear not, there is a much shorter way of getting to Airlie Beach, and you’ll be soaking in Australia’s best holiday destination before you know it.
Proserpine Airport (also known as Whitsunday Coast Airport) is the most popular gateway and is located only 30 minutes from Airlie Beach. The airport is used by all Australian domestic airlines (Virgin, Qantas, and JetStar) with flights every day from all main domestic airports. There is a Proserpine to Airlie Beach bus shuttle available.
Other nearby airports are Mackay Airport (roughly an hour and a half away) and Hamilton Island Airport which will require a ferry transfer to visit Airlie Beach.
Getting to Airlie Beach by Public transport:
Queensland Rail operates a regular passenger service between Brisbane and Cairns, with a stop in Proserpine. There are also many bus companies with daily services that will stop in Airlie Beach.
You have no excuse not to visit Airlie Beach, one of Australia’s must-visit destination.
Do I Need a Car in Airlie Beach?
If you are arriving by air or public transport and planning a short visit to Airlie Beach, then you will not need a car. Everything will be within walking distance or a short taxi drive away.
However, if you’re planning a few daytrips from Airlie Beach to places such as the beautiful Hydeaway Bay, spot platypus in Eungella National Park, or perhaps watch kangaroos come out at sunrise in Cape Hillsborough, then you will need your own transportation.
Below are the two best companies to hire cars with the largest fleets available and very fair prices.
- Discovercars – This is the best website to compare all car rental companies and score the best deal for you. There are all sorts of vehicles available, from small-budget cars to large family saloons, or perhaps even a 4×4.
- Spaceship Vans – Are you a backpacker or a budget traveler? No problem, then this is the one for you! There are great deals available on Spaceship Vans. We used it for four weeks in New Zealand and had no issues, highly recommended by us! Another bonus is that they have depots in Airlie Beach and Brisbane to drop the vehicle off once your trip is completed.
What are the Top Airlie Beach Attractions?
Whitehaven Beach often tops the list of the world’s most beautiful beaches with its pristine surroundings and the main reason why Airlie Beach is a must-see destination and one of Australia’s best attractions.
If you are wondering what else there is to keep you busy during your visit. Let’s find out how to get to this paradise, as well as, explore all the best things to do in Airlie Beach.
1. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: A Whitsunday Day Cruise
The first recommendation is a day-trip from Airlie Beach as the most popular way to discover the stunning Whitsunday Islands is on a cruise.
Whitsunday Islands are a spectacular group of 74 islands off the coast of Airlie Beach and in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Most famous for their picture-perfect white-sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise water on Whitehaven Beach which stretches for nearly 7 kilometres long and was voted as the most beautiful beach in the world!!
Have we got your attention yet?!
We would recommend a full day as there is so much beauty to be seen, in and out of the water. A full-day cruise will also offer a buffet lunch or beach picnic.
If you are afraid of the water then we would recommend a half-day cruise as it often only involves a visit to Whitehaven Island and does not include snorkelling.
The cruise itinerary includes visits to some of the best spots in the Whitsundays and of course a visit to the famous Whitehaven Island.
On the island, you can walk up to Hill Inlet Lookout to take in the breathtaking views of the swirling patterns of white sand mixed with turquoise water that makes Whitehaven Beach the most beautiful beach in the world!
Top Tip – If suitable, try and plan around the tide times. When it is low to mid tide you will get the best views!! If you are stuck for time, then don’t worry, it is still stunning.
After the walk to Hill Inlet Lookout, you will have time to chill out on the pure white silica sand (which doesn’t get hot!) and swim in crystal-clear waters. Keep an eye out for the many stingrays that are chilling in the water.
As part of the Whitsunday cruise you will be brought to various snorkelling spots where you are guaranteed to see colorful coral gardens, many different types of tropical fish such as Nemo the famous clown fish, and giant clams that close up when you get to near them.
Many Whitsunday cruises offer half-day and full-day adventures.
Fun Fact – The Whitsundays were named by Captain James Cook on the 3rd of June 1770 as he was sailing his ship the ‘Endeavour’, it was the 7th Sunday after Easter, also known as “Whitsun”.
2. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Sail The Whitsundays On a Multi-Day Trip
If time is on your side, then you can take a slower pace to discover the Whitsundays on a 2-day sailing trip. These sailing trips will include all the same activities as a day cruise, just at a slower and more relaxed pace. You can choose from different types of vessels, such as large sailing boats or catamarans.
You will also have more time to discover Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. Lots more different snorkelling spots, a sunset and sunrise over the horizon in this beautiful part of Australia, and a chance to stargaze embracing the Milky Way. Read that again, sounds fantastic right!?
There are different types of sleeping arrangements, these are either sleeping on the ship or camping on a beach, so make sure to pick the option that best suits you.
Lastly, we recommend one final way to explore one of the most beautiful regions in Australia, particularly for those with an adventurous spirit – Sea kayaking in the Whitsunday Islands.
3. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Take a Scenic Flight For Stunning Aerial Views
The Whitsunday Islands area offers some of the most beautiful views in the world, Unfortunately, it’s a bit hard to fully embrace it whilst on a boat.
However, if you take a flight over this breathtaking scenery you will be greeted by stunning bird’s-eye views of turquoise water, white beaches, green forests, and remarkable coral reefs.
In Particular, the famous Heart Reef – a coral formation naturally shaped like a heart!
Remember to book a flight at the correct time of year. It does get pretty rainy in this area in January – April.
These don’t sound like bad day-trips from Airlie Beach do they?! Any you still get back with lots of time to enjoy a night in Airlie Beach itself.
4. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Cool Down in Airlie Beach Lagoon
In the heart of Airlie Beach is one of the nicest-looking swimming pools in all of Australia – Airlie Beach Lagoon and also one of the best places to relax for the day.
What makes it even better is that this swimming pool is a free activity right next to the sea with some gorgeous ocean views.
There are plenty of grass areas, and sheltered barbecue areas which makes it a great place to lounge around for hours. Whether you are a family having a picnic, a couple playing in the refreshing water, or a single backpacker reading a book, there’s a spot here for everyone.
After your day-trip from Airlie Beach this might be a nice chill time to rest and recover.
5. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Cool Down in Cedar Falls
It is not just Airlie Beach town that is worth visiting but in our opinion the surrounding area makes this Queensland gem one of Australia’s best attractions.
Another option to cool down on a hot tropical Queensland day is to take a refreshing shower underneath one of Queensland’s best waterfalls with perfect water temperature.
Located only 30 minutes away from Airlie Beach you will discover Cedar Creek Falls – a natural rock amphitheater with a gorgeous pool and waterfall, surrounded by cedar trees, hence the name!!
Getting to the waterhole from the carpark is an easy 10-minute walk. If you are visiting in the dry season (May to October) then don’t expect much as the waterfall can be completely dried up. However, visit in the wet season, and you will be wowed by this tranquil retreat.
A perfect day-trip from Airlie Beach to a glorious waterfall is yet another perfect example of why Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination in Australia and why Airlie Beach is worth visiting.
6. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Visit a Rain Forest in Conway National Park
Why not add a national park to your already incredible day-trip from Airlie Beach?!
When visiting Cedar Creek waterfall, you may as well continue your short drive to Conway National Park. The park’s main feature is the Conway Peninsula.
There are many hiking trails with great views in Conway National Park, ranging in all sorts of distances and difficulty. Check out the available hikes.
Another option to explore the spectacular Conway National Park is to ride your own segway rainforest, that takes you along the Great Whitsunday Trail.
It may look tempting to go swimming in the sea, but CAUTION is strongly advised as there are no lifeguards patrolling the beaches, and a chance of a crocodile hiding in the water – NEVER SWIM ALONE!! A much better plan is to just go back to the Airlie Beach Lagoon or waterfall to cool down.
7. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Experience Paradise on the Mainland at Hydeaway Bay
One of our favorite places in Australia is Hydeaway Bay. This is like the Whitsunday Islands but on the mainland, and only 45 minutes from Airlie Beach.
All the day-trips from Airlie Beach we have mentioned are short distances away so you can have the best of both worlds. You can still enjoy exploring Airlie Beach itself, and have plenty of time to get ready for a night on the town – which is also one of Australia’s best attractions!
One of the best views on this day-trip from Airlie Beach is OMG Hill, and we think the name says it all.
On your way to Hydeaway Beach make sure to visit Dingo Beach, there is an enclosure here where you can swim in another turquoise paradise beach, but only when the tide is in.
If you are looking for one of the best beaches without involving a cruise, and in our opinion one of the best day-trips from Airlie Beach, then Hydeaway Bay is it!
8. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Sight a Monster on a Proserpine Crocodile Tour
So far, we have experienced a full range of Airlie Beach’s best attractions from heavenly beaches, waterfalls, National parks and free lagoons. While we are still on the water theme, let’s throw in some crocodiles into the mix shall we?!
When travelling to Airlie Beach from a southern direction, you will have to drive through the town of Proserpine. A river (also called the Proserpine, how original!) flows through this small town that is packed with some big saltwater crocodiles and you can go see these prehistoric monsters for yourself on a 2-hour river cruise.
After the Proserpine river cruise you can catch some mud crab, learn about bush life and “bush tucker” and feast on a freshly caught Aussie barbecue – One of the best barbeques we ever had!
9 – Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Witness the Best View of Airlie Beach on Honeyeater Hike
Who doesn’t love a great viewpoint? Another Airlie Beach activity, and possibly the best viewpoint of the town is The Honeyeater Hike.
The Honeyeater Hike is a free activity that allows you to take in one of the best views of Airlie Beach and the surrounding mountains, islands, and beaches.
The hike is nearly 8 kilometres out and back, and can be a bit challenging. Especially if you were out the night before in one of the many late-night bars in Airlie beach town! The perfect Australian holiday is all about balance right?!
Overall the Honeyeater hike will take about one hour to reach the summit, but once there you will be rewarded with the most incredible panoramic views of Airlie Beach.
The starting point is at Kara Crescent and from there simply follow the signs and stay on the track the whole way up. Try to start your hike in the morning to avoid the heat and prepare yourself with plenty of water to stay hydrated.
10. Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Catch Your Dinner On a Fishing Tour
Give a person a fish, and you’ll feed him for the whole day. Teach a person to fish, and you’ll get rid of them for the whole day!
If fishing is your passion then you will have one fantastic Airlie Beach holiday. It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned angler or a novice, you are still guaranteed a fun day at some of the best fishing locations in the Whitsundays.
Whilst you’re on the lookout for your next catch, you may also catch sight of whales and dolphins playing in the sea.
There are full-day and half-day day-trips from Airlie Beach available. Every tour will include equipment such as rods, reels, and bait. At the end of the day, you will bring home your delicious catch of the day such as Spanish mackerel, Red Emperors, and Tuna to feast on, which will all be cleaned and packed on board. Just another great reason why Airlie Beach is worth visiting!
Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach: Bonus Activity – Rock out at Airlie Beach Music Festival
What can possibly make Airlie Beach even more fun you might be thinking?! Imagine partying in a tropical paradise at one of Australia’s best music festivals. For over a decade, every November the town is host to one of Queensland’s greatest live music events showcasing some of the country’s best artist.
The Airlie Beach Music Festival lasts an entire weekend and features lots of famous names, local bands, and the latest talents breaking through. There are live performances at 16 different locations throughout Airlie Beach.
This event is sold out months in advance, so give yourself plenty of time to book accommodation and secure yourself a ticket.
As you can see there are many great attractions in Airlie Beach and many fantastic reasons which make Airlie Beach one of Australia’s best places to visit.
No doubt, you will be needing some rest and recovering at the free Airlie Beach lagoon following this weekend!
Airlie Beach Accommodation: Where To Stay in Airlie Beach
After a day of all these great Airlie Beach activities, you will need a place to rest up. The good news is that there is lots of Airlie Beach accommodation available that again caters to all types of travelers.
Airlie Beach Accommodation: The Best Hostel in Airlie Beach
Magnums – This is the place for you backpackers, or people looking for a party late into the night.
Magnums is located in the heart of Airlie Beach with live music most nights. You can check in to a dorm-style room, or a private room for some great rates. If you are visiting in high season or school holidays make sure to book in advance to avoid missing out.
Airlie Beach Accommodation: Most Popular Hotel for Couples
Coral Sea Marina Resort is a great place to go as a couple, many rooms have sea views with a hot tub looking out. The hotel is within walking distance of the city center, but that means you have to get out of the hot tub…..
Airlie Beach Accommodation: The Neighbouring Islands for Utmost Luxury
Two of the most popular islands to stay in the Whitsundays are Daydream Island and Hamilton Island.
Daydream Island Resort is a luxury stay with stunning views and a huge living reef aquarium, in the low season you can score an unbelievable deal so make sure to keep an eye out.
Hamilton Island has different types of accommodation, ranging from resorts, apartments, and bungalows but the Reef View Hotel tops the list for ultimate Australian luxury. What makes Hamilton even better is that an airport connecting flights from all main cities is located on the island.
You will find amazing luxury accommodation options. Just look at where we stayed for Kate’s birthday one year, with our private pool overlooking the Whitsunday Islands.
For more options, check out our guide to the best of Airlie Beach Accommodation below:
After Your Airlie Beach Visit – Where to go Next?
As mentioned at the beginning of the article, if you are heading south from Airlie Beach you will find the Australian hidden gem of Mackay, which is an hour and a half drive, and where we called home for almost 7 years.
If you are on an East-Coast Road trip coming from Cairns then make sure to visit Mackay, a very underestimated town, and discover superb beaches, some of the best camping spots in Australia, famous Australian wildlife, and adrenaline-packed swimming holes.
If you are heading North, then the next big city will be Townsville. Here you will discover Australia’s largest waterfall, an island with wild koalas and natural waterslides and hikes.
We visited all of these Australia gems on our East-Coast Road trip, check it out so you don’t miss any must-see destinations of Australia on your itinerary
Enjoy Your Airlie Beach Holiday!
Let’s revisit the important question that we mentioned at the start “Is Airlie Beach worth visiting?” We already gave away our answer that in our opinion Airlie Beach is worth visiting, but have you made up your mind yet?
How good does Airlie Beach sound? Pretty cool right, this is why we lived in this part of Australia for 7 years. Simply because it is one of the best places on earth, and Airlie Beach most definitely tops the list as Australia’s must visit destinations.
What is your opinion, is Airlie Beach worth visiting? Have you now put it on your Australia bucket list? We would love to hear from you!
Feel free to leave a comment or ask us a question, at any time.
Enjoy your Airlie Beach visit, and don’t forget to check out our socials to find out where we are these days.
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