The Most Beautiful Beaches you can go to in the Whitsunday Islands
Planning a visit to the best Whitsunday beaches? Well you should find this post very interesting! Outlined below is how it is structured.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Where are the Whitsunday Islands?
3. The 14 Best Whitsunday Beaches
3.1 Whitehaven Beach (Whitsunday Island)
3.2 Dugong Beach (Whitsunday Island)
3.3 Long_Island
3.4 Langford Spit (Langford Island)
3.5 Boathaven Beach
3.6 Catseye Beach (Hamilton Island)
3.7 Chalkies Beach (Haselwood Island)
3.8 Butterfly Bay (Hook Island)
3.9 Cateran Bay (Border Island)
3.10 Crayfish Beach (Hook Island)
3.11 Northern Spit (Henning Island)
3.12 Coral Cove (Hamilton Island)
3.13 Chance Bay (Whitsunday Island)
3.14 Airlie_Beach
4. FAQs
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Read Time: 12 Minutes
Introduction
In my mind, the best Whitsunday Beaches rank up there with the best beaches in Queensland. Especially Whitehaven Beach, which was voted the number one beach in the world back in 2023 by TripAdvisor.
Whether you are looking for a little piece of paradise to enjoy with no one else around, a romantic stretch of dazzling white sand where you can walk hand-in-hand with your loved one or a popular spot with lounge chairs and barbecue facilities, there is somewhere for everyone to visit in the Whitsunday Region.
In this guide, I’ll present 14 of the most beautiful beaches you can go to in the Whitsunday Islands. If you are planning a visit to this stunning Queensland holiday destination, you should add them to your beach bucketlist!
TripAdvisor awarded Whitehaven the status of the number one beach in the world in 2023 and it’s not hard to see why.
Where are the Whitsunday Islands?
The Whitsunday Islands is an archipelago of 74 islands that reside in between Queensland’s northeast coast and the Great Barrier Reef about 55 km offshore.
Most of these islands are uninhabited, although some of the ones that are, including Hamilton Island, Hayman Island and Daydream Island are prime tourist destinations with world-class accommodations and resort style facilities.
Overall, the Whitsunday Islands are defined by their beautiful sandy beaches, lush rainforests and opportunities for various recreational pursuits. The most popular destination on the mainland to access them is Airlie Beach, which is the region’s main hub.
One of the best ways to see the Whitsunday Islands are to sail around them and there are various tours that will enable you to engage in scuba diving and snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, as well as other water related activities at the best Whitsunday beaches.
However, if your budget can stretch to it, flying over the region and particularly the famous Heart Reef, is a bucket-list item you should try to tick off.
The 14 Best Whitsunday Beaches
Are you looking for the best Whitsunday Beaches to visit on your next Queensland holiday? Here is my take on the 14 best ones to visit during your time in the region. (Presented in no particular order).
Which of these is top of your list?
Whitehaven Beach (Whitsunday Island)
Ok, well I said it was in no particular order. But when it comes to the best Whitsunday Beaches then Whitehaven Beach would come out top. It’s not even close.
As mentioned before, TripAdvisor awarded Whitehaven the status of the number one beach in the world in 2023 and it’s not hard to see why. From the moment you step on to its gorgeous white sands (white-haven of sand if you will), you will be utterly intoxicated by its sheer charm and serenity.
Whitehaven Beach is the crown jewel of the Whitsundays. It resides on Whitsunday Island and stretches for over seven kilometres along its eastern coast. What sets this beach apart from other beaches in the region, is its incredible pure white silica sand, which is so fine, it feels like you are walking on powdered sugar.
While Whitehaven Beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing, beachwalking and beachcombing, you should make a point of hiking up to the famous Hill Inlet. From this lofty position, you’ll get a magnificent full length view of the beach and also take in the spectacular site of the sand swirling in the turquoise waters as the tide shifts. Make sure you have your camera at the ready to capture the moment for posterity.
You can reach Whitehaven Beach via several tours and cruises which operate in the area. Many of them offer snorkelling, guided bushwalks and other activities as part of the experience.
Where to stay in the Whitsunday Islands
(Click here for more information)
Dugong Beach (Whitsunday Island)
Dugong beach can only be reached by boat, making it one of the most remote Whitsunday Beaches you can visit.
However, it is worth making the effort to reach this stunning stretch of sand at Cid Harbour (about 17km from Shute Harbour) to see the dugongs that regularly feed on the seagrass along the coast. These gentle and shy creatures are wary of humans, possibly due to hunting by the Ngaro people. So, you shouldn’t try and interact with them.
You also can’t snorkel or swim here due to the fact that several shark attacks have taken place here over the years. However, what you can do is stay at the campground which has picnic tables and compost toilets. However, you will need to bring your own drinking water, camp stove, insect repellent and rubbish bags.
The beach is the perfect spot for some R&R away from the crowds. If you fancy stretching your legs though, you can take a lovely 1.5 km stroll to the adjacent Sawmill Beach via a coastal rainforest trek.
If you really want to get the heart rate up you could also try the steep 2.5 km trail that takes you to Whitsunday Peak, where a lookout will showcase tremendous views of the surrounds. Just be aware, it is quite physically demanding.
TripAdvisor awarded Whitehaven the status of the number one beach in the world in 2023 and it’s not hard to see why.
Long Island
At 9km in length and just 400 metres wide, Long Island is, well, a long island. Comprising mostly national park, it offers up some of the best Whitsunday Beaches you could possibly hope to visit, most of which you’ll virtually have to yourself.
For those seeking seclusion and tranquility, this spectacular paradise of coral-fringing reefs and secluded bays will provide it to you in spades. You can choose to stay at two boutique island retreats, both of which will lavish you with a dreamy private escape experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Days can be primarily spent snorkelling, kayaking, sunbathing and beachcombing, although you will also be able to enjoy 17 km of walking trails that show off the island’s flora, fauna and dramatic landscape. At night you can enjoy romantic dinners and lazy evening sipping cocktails in your oceanfront villa.
Langford Spit (Langford Island)
Langford Spit only appears when the tides permit it to, but when it does, it reveals a spectacular 800 metre sand split along the Whitsunday Waters that are as idyllic as anything in the region.
Only accessible by boat (it take seven-minutes from Hayman Island) , Langford Island resides in the north-western reaches of the Whitsunday Islands National Park, not far from northern Hook Island. It is an uninhabited and untouched island that boasts a fringing coral reef perfect for snorkelling.
Though it is relatively small-sized it is one of the best Whitsunday beaches to escape the crowds. It also brims with aquatic life, with even the occasional turtle passing by, and features soft sand that is ideal for sunbathing, picnics and swimming.
Whitsunday Islands Tours and Excursions
Boathaven Beach
Boathaven Beach is one of the most unique beaches in the Whitsundays.
Constructed as part of a multi-million dollar upgrade of the Port of Airlie, this spectacular man-made beach resides on a peninsula known as The Beacons. It boasts a northerly aspect and accommodates 60,000 dazzling cubic metres of white, soft sand, which make it one of the best Whitsunday beaches to photograph.
Situated adjacent to the marina, the large beach is perfect for sunbathing. It also has a stinger net to better protect you from jellyfish and is backed by luxury million dollar homes, several high-end eateries and a sailing club that gives it an exclusive feel.
It is worth spending some quality time here before heading off to some of the other beaches in the Whitsunday Islands.
Those in the know will tell you that Chalkies Beach is not just one of the best Whitsunday Beaches, but also much better than Whitehaven.
Catseye Beach (Hamilton Island)
Hamilton Island is one of the Whitsundays’ leading resort islands, and the wonderful Catseye Beach is located right in the centre of it. Enjoying an idyllic setting, flanked by mountains and lush forest it is renowned for being one of the best Whitsunday beaches for families to visit.
Here, you’ll be able to sunbathe and relax on a golden strip of sand that offers stunning views. Alternatively, you can snorkel directly offshore (look out for turtles!) or rent hobie catamarans, paddleboards or kayaks to explore up and down the coastline.
Flanking the beach are some good places to eat and a number of resorts which provide easy access to it. Although this beach does get a lot busier than many others in the Whitsunday Region, the vibe here is always casual and relaxed.
Chalkies Beach (Haselwood Island)
Those in the know will tell you that Chalkies Beach is not just one of the best Whitsunday Beaches, but also much better than Whitehaven. Sitting almost directly opposite its more famous neighbour, this delightful beach on Haslewood Island’s west coast is notable for boasting the same gorgeous pure white silica sand.
As it is a more off-the-beaten-path location there aren’t as many tourists here. However, it is worth making the effort to get there because of the much more interesting coral reefs that can be explored just off shore.
Chalkies is also a lovely spot for fishing, birdwatching, beach combing and taking photos. It is alternatively known as Stockyard Beach and only accessible by chartering a private boat or taking a guided tour to the island.
Best Place for Snorkelling in the Whitsundays
Butterfly Bay (Hook Island)
Beautiful Butterfly Bay resides on the northern part of Hook Island, which is one of the Whitsunday’s most popular tourist destinations. It gets its name from the hoardes of gorgeous butterflies that can be seen floating around the pretty wildflowers that grow here.
Boasting a stunning strip of golden sand, many tourists acclaim Butterfly Bay to be one of the best Whitsunday beaches to visit on a day-trip from Hamilton Island, Airlie or Daydream Island. It is a popular spot with sunbathers and swimmers, as well as scuba divers and snorkelers, who revel in the underwater scene at Hook Reef, which is just off shore.
Although you can come here on a tour, if you have your own vessel, you will be able to use one of the many free public moorings that are available on the island.
While Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island tends to get most of the plaudits, its worth making your way over to the sheltered and secluded beach at Coral Cove.
Cateran Bay (Border Island)
Over on the northern coastline of Border Island, you’ll find Cateran Bay, an idyllic stretch of secluded sand that many tourists could easily miss. That would be a real shame, in particular for couples, because it is undoubtedly one of the best Whitsunday beaches for a romantic getaway.
Surrounded by steep, bosky slopes, the beach provides a real sense of seclusion, especially as it can only be reached by boat at mid to high tide. This means, that you can often have it completely to yourself, especially if you come here outside of peak season.
One of the best things about visiting here is that you can snorkel off your boat, if you can’t wait to get to the beach. There are plenty of fish around the fringing reefs, so they will provide you with hours of visual entertainment. Swimming and hiking are among the other activities you can do here. Just make sure you bring all the food and water you need with you.
Crayfish Beach (Hook Island)
Another lovely beach to visit on Hook Island is Crayfish Beach, which resides at Mackerel Bay, around 35 km north-ish from Airlie Beach. This fabulous beach is nestled between two imposing mountains and boasts an incredibly beautiful landscape of golden sand, turquoise water and verdant bush lands.
As it is sheltered from the south-easterly prevailing winds, it is one of the best Whitsunday beaches for camping. There is a dedicated area here for it, set among lush vegetation, which also has a small seasonal creek, (the fullness of which depends on rainfall) that runs through it to the beach.
As this campsite can only accommodate 12 people, Crayfish is a terrific place to stay for a few days with your family or close friends. Facilities are very rustic – though there are composting toilets – but you’ll be able to enjoy some peace and quiet in paradise.
Distance to Airlie Beach from other Destinations
Northern Spit (Henning Island)
Another good beach to visit if you love beach camping, is Northern Spit.
Situated about 15 km from Shute Harbour, on the north side of Henning Island, it is one of the best Whitsunday beaches to pitch up a tent if you don’t mind roughing it. Just like at Crayfish, facilities are limited here, but do include compost toilets and picnic tables.
You can easily reach the campsite by boat, though you will need to get a permit before you can officially stay there.
The picturesque campground is flanked by casurinas and native grasses, and is nestled among gorgeous sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, relaxing in a hammock and stargazing. It can accommodate 18 people and looks out to Hamilton Island and several other Whitsunday Islands.
If you are after somewhere to enjoy a digital detox and a bit of peace and quiet, this is as good a place as any.
Airlie Beach isn’t technically in The Whitsunday Islands, so it might be a stretch to call it one of the best Whitsunday Beaches. However, as it is the gateway to it and the Great Barrier Reef, I’ve included it on this list.
Coral Cove (Hamilton Island)
While Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island tends to get most of the plaudits, its worth making your way over to the sheltered and secluded beach at Coral Cove.
Located on the southern side of the island, this terrific inlet presents fabulous views of Lindeman Island. It is a bit of a trek to get here, though it can be reached by two different access points on either side of the island.
However, once you arrive, you’ll see a giant swing which is as Insta-worthy as anything you will find on the best Whitsunday beaches. If you time your visit right, you’ll be able to spend ages on the swing taking in splendid views of the flora, fauna and surrounding landscape.
When not doing that, swimming and bird-watching are other popular activities here.
Chance Bay (Whitsunday Island)
You should definitely take the chance to visit Chance Bay (sorry, I couldn’t resist the pun!).
Residing in a secluded bay on the south-eastern part of Whitsunday Island, this beautiful coastal area is a terrific place to camp as it offers superb views of the Lindeman group of Islands, Cape Conway and Pentecost Island from across the sand.
The small cay is one of the best Whitsunday beaches for beachcombing. It is also a lovely spot to escape the crowds at Whitehaven Beach, to which it is linked by a 3.5 km walking track. You’ll find the same dazzling white silica sand here that Whitehaven is renowned for and on a warm day, you’ll welcome the cooling south-easterly winds that are more prevalent here.
Chance Bay can only be reached by boat during high tide. A permit is required to camp here, and you’ll need to bring and take out all your provisions.
Facts about the Whitsunday Islands
Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach isn’t technically in The Whitsunday Islands, so it might be a stretch to call it one of the best Whitsunday Beaches. However, as it is the gateway to it and the Great Barrier Reef, I’ve included it on this list.
The beach at Airlie Beach isn’t the biggest going around, but it is a beautiful stretch of golden palm-tree-lined sand that offers safe opportunities for swimming in a man-made, surf-lifesaver patrolled lagoon that is free from crocodiles and stingers.
Airlie is a place that oozes tropical vibes. When you are not on the beach or sailing off to various spots in the Whitsunday Islands, you can enjoy a drink, bite to eat and shop at any of the cafes, bars and boutique shops that line the main street. You’ll also find plenty of decent hotels, resorts and other holiday home type places to stay in the area.
FAQs
What are some of the best Whitsunday Beaches?
Some of the best Whitsunday Beaches you can visit include Whitehaven Beach (Whitsunday Island), Catseye Beach (Hamilton Island), Butterfly Bay (Hook Island) and Chalkies Beach (Haselwood Island).
When should I visit the best Whitsunday Beaches?
You can visit the best Whitsunday beaches all year round. However, during the summer months of December to February, you might find the weather to be too hot and a high chance of storms. For this reason, you might want to time your visit between the months of October to November or March and April.
