The Perfect 5-Day Whitsundays Itinerary
Planning a trip to the Whitsundays can be a tough task. When you’re spoilt for choice with so much to see and do, it’s a challenge to squeeze it all in and know what to do when. It’s a good problem to have, and you’ve come to the right place to find the solution. We know all the best spots and how to make the most of your time in paradise, so read on and start booking your holiday.
Day 1: Explore Airlie
We like to think of Airlie Beach as being a basecamp.
It’s the central place from which to explore the Whitsundays, acting as a launchpad from which to begin all your adventures. But this doesn’t mean that Airlie doesn’t have plenty to offer in its own right. It’s a coastal town built for holidaymakers, with everything from relaxation and indulgence to fine dining and adventure, all packaged up into one seaside hamlet.
Your first day in the Whitsundays should be spent walking, swimming, eating and shopping in Airlie, absorbing the energy and beautiful scenery.
Start with a coffee and breakfast at one of the many cafes, then take a stroll along the Turtle Boardwalk. If you’re feeling energetic, then swap things around and kick the morning off with a run from end to end on the Bicentennial Boardwalk. With some exercise done and food in your belly, it’s time for a swim at some of the best beaches in the Whitsundays. There’s a couple of local swim spots that are patrolled and safe for a dip.
Next up is lunch with a view followed by a stroll through town to do some shopping. There are plenty of gift stores and fashion outlets to choose from, with great local brands and artisanal jewellery that makes a nice memento.
To end the day, dinner and a cocktail at one of the local bars is the perfect way to wind things up. But don’t go having a late night, because tomorrow is going to be a big one.
Day 2: Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
The jewel of the Whitsundays has to be Whitehaven Beach. It’s an icon and one of the best-known landmarks in Australia. The perfect, white sand and azure, blue sea make it a postcard destination and a place that no matter how many times you visit, you can’t help but be amazed.
Getting to Whitehaven involves either a leisurely sail or cruise, or you can get there the fast way on a powerboat. The Atlantic Clipper and New Horizon offer two distinct overnight cruise experiences for families, couples, and backpackers. Whatever your mode of transport, the destination is what this day is all about. In saying that, the journey is a highlight too, with great scenery and fun along the way.
Once at Whitehaven it’s time for a swim, maybe a barbecue on the beach, and a walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. Perched above the bright sands and warm waters, this lookout provides some of the best views in the region. If you can, time it for when the tide is out, that way you get to see the best of the swirling sand patterns.
Day 3: Relax and Indulge
After a long day in the sun yesterday, it’s time to recharge the batteries. Start with a sleep in and late breakfast, then find a spot by the Airlie Beach Lagoon to relax with a book, taking the occasional dip to cool off.
Your body is probably a little sore from the previous day, so the next activity on the itinerary is a massage or spa treatment. There are several places specialising in restorative and beauty therapies, but book in advance as the spots can fill fast in the peak season.
The afternoon is when you’re back on the water, sailing the calm seas near Airlie on a sunset cruise. There are a few operators, ranging from casual or indulgent, to energetic, so find one that suits your budget and style. To end the day, splurge on some fine dining, or at the least try the local seafood, because as they say – fresh is best!
A note for the early risers: If you’re keen to start your morning a bit earlier, then today’s the day to take a scenic flight over the reef, and not just any spot, we’re talking the spectacular Heart Reef. It’s only visible from above and the best time to fly is early in the day.
Day 4: Head to the Reef
Much like your visit to Whitehaven Beach, this is going to be one of those days that you’ll remember forever. The Great Barrier Reef is known the world over as a bucket list destination. No visit to the region is complete without spending some time snorkelling or diving on this wonder of nature.
A trip to the Great Barrier Reef is either a half day of full day affair, starting with a cruise to the inner reef spots in and around the islands, or out wider to Reefworld. It takes a few hours to get there, but once on the pontoon you’ll have plenty of time to swim amongst the coral and reef fish. For the non-swimmers, there’s a semi-submarine ride and marine observatory too. Once you’ve spent some time in the water and had a bite to eat for lunch, it’s all aboard for the relaxing cruise back to Airlie.
Day 5: See the Inland Sites
You’ve seen the town and been out to the reef, now it’s time to see a side of the region that many underestimate just how good it is. The inland areas west of Airlie Beach are filled with pristine rainforests, streams, rivers and waterfalls. The coastal fringes are pretty too, but crocodiles mean no swimming. However, head to Conway National Park and Cedar Creek Falls and you can spend your day hiking, swimming in cool, freshwater and looking for wildlife. You can book a tour or self-drive. Just make sure you pack some snacks and water as there’s no facilities once you’re in the bush.
A final note for travellers: if you find yourself in Airlie on a Saturday, make sure you visit the markets. They operate from 7am to 1pm and feature lots of local produce, art, souvenirs, delicious food and handmade craft.