A Beautiful Place You Should Visit

The Whitsunday Islands are a group of 74 continental islands of various sizes. Located off the central coast of Queensland, Australia, north of Brisbane.

Whitsunday Islands

What is it famous for?

Movie location:

This is the place where ‘Pirates of the Caribbean – Dead men tell no tales’ (with Johnny Depp as Captain Sparrow) was filmed.
The movie ‘Ticket to Paradise’ with (Julia Roberts and George Clooney) was also filmed on the Whitsunday Islands.

Natural Beauty:

Whitsunday Islands are famous for their natural beauty, beautiful beaches like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, as well as the famous Heart Reef – a stunning composition of coral that has naturally formed into the shape of a heart. A highlight of any visit to the Whitsundays.
Furthermore, it is also home to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef – one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the largest living structure on Earth. It is part of the world’s largest living ecosystem.

Why should you visit Whitsunday Islands?

Apart from the luxury as well as beautiful resorts and absolute beautiful nature scenes, the islands also offer:

Many, and most of the islands offer ideal sailing and kayaking conditions as well as amazing snorkeling locations where you can enjoy the beauty of an abundant fish-filled world under the sea.
You’ll discover pristine reefs and abundant wildlife, like, turtles, reef fish, dolphins, manta rays, and humpback whales frolicking in the ocean (between June to September).
Beautiful, secluded beaches and an amazing coastline.

Ticket to Paradise | Official Trailer:

Best islands to visit?

The Top 5 Whitsunday Islands – although most of the islands are not inhabited, there are a few that is worth spending a bit more time on:

Hamilton Island. Hamilton Island is probably the most well-known as it is also one of the larger inhabited islands in the group of the 74 Whitsunday islands. The island is possibly the most popular holiday destination in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, and the perfect place from where to explore the reef.
Hayman Island. A private island open to the public, and famous for its luxury resort accommodation. (See below for fabulous suggestions on where to stay.)
Hook Island. The second largest island in the Cumberland group. Only 58 square kilometers in size, but it has picturesque bays to enjoy. This is worth a stop.
Daydream Island. Here you have something that memories are made of. Stay on a tiny island (measuring only 1 km in length by 400 m in width) called Daydream Island, sip on your cocktails and make this daydream your reality. (see the link below for booking your stay) You can go on a day trip to Daydream island as well.
Whitsunday Island. The biggest island of the group and home to the Whitsunday Island National Park, as well as Whitehaven Beach and the spectacular Hill Inlet (an amazing viewpoint and photo hotspot).

How many days do you need in Whitsundays?

The Whitsundays have so much to offer. We recommend a minimum of 4 days and if you would like to spend a little more time at your luxury resort, then definitely book for 5 days.

What is the best way to see the Whitsundays?

The best way to see the Whitsundays is by water. Go on a boat tour. There are many day cruises and experiences you can easily book online to explore the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, and more.

What is the best time of year to go?

The best time of the year to visit The Whitsundays Islands is during spring. The months of October and November have nice weather, but it is not yet that busy. During the hot summer months of December and January, the place is busy, as it is a very popular tourist destination. But there is a great vibe.

How do you get around the Whitsundays?

Easy water access to the islands is available by launch from Shute Harbour or Hamilton Island. You can rent a car, hire a bicycle or scooter and the local bus service is also available.

How to get to Whitsundays?

You can fly to Whitsundays Coast Airport, Proserpine (PPP), which is approximately 40 minutes from Airlie Beach. Virgin Australia and Jetstar offer daily flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Are the Whitsundays worth visiting?

Yes, Yes, and definitely yes. If you love the beautiful idyllic tropical beach look and want all your friends to be jealous of where you took those beautiful vacation photos, this is the place to go.

While you’re there,

Take a (60 min) passenger ferry trip from the Hamilton Island Marina to the beautiful and popular Airlie Beach.

Where to stay

There are loads of beautiful places to stay. (Featured on the photo below: The InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel)

Book your Accommodation

From luxury to family resorts - More than 400 places to stay.

Search and Book a place to stay anywhere on Whitsundays