In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef lays 74 tropical islands collectively known as the Whitsundays. With a majority of the islands being uninhabited and boasting dense rainforest alongside white sandy beaches there’s plenty of unspoilt beauty to behold.
If you’re looking for tropical islands, lush rainforest, turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and jaw dropping views, then look no further than the Whitsundays. In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef with white sand and idyllic snorkel spots, you’ll be wishing you were there yesterday.
If you’re the type of person that’s always dreamt of sailing away into the sunset to explore tropical waters, then the Whitsundays is a must. We have a range of different sailing experiences to suit everybody, from those with a thirst for exploration and adventure, to those who prefer the more luxurious lifestyle.
Sail around the Whitsunday Islands and become enchanted in its sheer beauty. Scuba dive or snorkel incredible reefs home to an array of tropical marine life. Discover the magic of Whitehaven Beach and the stunning marble wash visuals at Hill Inlet. It really is as perfect in real life as it is on socials. There’s no need to wait any longer. Book your trip to heaven on Earth now.
Known as the gateway to the Whitsundays, this palm tree-lined town has plenty to offer. Overlooking the Coral Sea, the town rests by the side of a pristine turquoise lagoon.With the smell of coconut sunscreen in the air, this place is the essence of a holiday.
Once you’ve checked into your Airlie Beach accommodation, take a walk down to the harbor, grab a drink at The Garden Bar and check out the many yachts waiting to set sail out to those tropical Whitsunday Islands in the sun.
When it all gets too hot, cool down and get poolside at the lagoon. There’s heaps of shade and being in the center of town, you’re never too far from a bite to eat or some more fun.
If you’re in need of activities before you sail out to the Whitsundays, then Airlie has you covered. Skydiving, jet skiing, scenic flights, and deep sea fishing to name but a few.
There’s no better place to start an epic week of fun in the sun.
The crown jewel of the Whitsundays, this place tops any list for those seeking a bit of R&R. Pure shores, white sands, and aqua blue waters makes Whitehaven perfect for a bit of “me time”. Protected by the Whitsunday Islands National Park and only accessible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, its sands are famed for their silky smooth textures.
Take a stroll on the quiet side and check it out for yourself. This place has to be seen to be believed.
Situated at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach, this place cannot be missed. Do not forget your camera. This breathtaking inlet provides the perfect gallery framing all the natural beauty of Whitehaven in one epic display.
Trust us when we say that this walk is worth it. Water bottle in one hand and your camera in the other is the perfect way to gear up for this next level lookout.
Home to a commercial airport, streets with no cars and luxurious resorts, Hamilton Island is one of the coolest places in the Whitsundays, especially if you are feeling the high end holiday type of lifestyle. There’s never ending fun on this island from swimming at numerous public pools or Catseye Beach, hiking Passage Peak, taking to the water with a paddleboard, snorkel, catamaran, and if you feel like getting airborne, try out a jetpack adventure. Hamilton Island also has a weekly activity guide, because there is so much to do, so they have you covered. They have everything in store for the adventurous, those wanting to relax and have a spa day, those who want to experience luxurious dining experiences, and those that want to rediscover their inner kid with a plethora of games.
The island is literally your playground.
Bowen became famous when the Baz Luhrmann film, Australia, filmed there in 2007. But besides being a Hollywood backdrop, Bowen is home to eight impressive beaches, fringing reef and friendly country hospitality. You can literally walk off the beach and start immediately snorkelling along the coral reef in Bowen.
It’s also home to some amazing historical sites, especially from WWII. For scuba divers, there’s a WWII landing craft lying underwater off Queens Beach, as well as Holbourne and Middle Islands offshore. Bowen also offers some awesome and easy hikes for all fitness levels and trust us when we say the views are some of the best you can get in Australia, so head up to Flagstaff Hill to get an idea of what we mean. You won’t regret it.
Don't miss a thing with 2 Days and 1 night on board the fastest boat on the Whitsundays. Visit Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and snorkel with aquatic life.
The best 2 Day 2 Night Whitsundays adventure with the epic crew at Spank Me. Explore Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, and snorkel with aquatic life.
The best value 60 Minute Scenic Flight the Whitsundays has to offer. Flight commentary, views of Whitehaven, Hill Inlet and the famous Heart Reef.
The best Fly Raft Northern Exposure Package with Ocean Rafting will see you soaring above the stunning Whitsundays and snorkelling with aquatic life.
The best package the Whitsundays has to offer. Visit Whitehaven and Hill Inlet then soar over the Whitsundays with this Fly Raft Southern Lights tour.
“Seeing the Whitsundays in a day is impossible”, said nobody ever after jumping on Thundercat. This Whitsundays day trip is perfect for the kind of traveller that doesn’t fancy sleeping on a boat and wants to make the most out of their one day at The Whitsundays. This trip is an all-rounder so as long as you’re into world class beaches, immaculate snorkelling, and a guided hike through a national park then look no further than this. Offering max time on the islands, the lively legends that captain the boat will get you to all the right places quicker than…
Get away for a weekend getaway on Explore Whitsundays Getaway with a sailing adventure that combines comfort, style, and class. Get away for a weekend getaway on either their 2 Day 2 Night or 3 day 3 night Whitsunday Getaway. If you’re chasing a primo-Whitsundays sailing adventure that combines comfort, style, and class, then this luxury vessel is sure to tick every box you can think of. You’ll visit the top spots around the Whitsundays the luxx way. The boat is a beautiful sailing catamaran, with a spacious, open foredeck, shaded back deck and plenty of indoor seating. Enjoy a…
Whitsunday Sailing Adventures are the operators of the ‘Entice Catamarans’, and O’Nice is one of them. . Entice & O’Nice are widely renowned as some of the best sailing trips in Northern Queensland. It only takes a few seconds to read the reviews customers have left for this trip to be completely sold. Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and fringing reef snorkelling…oh the sights to behold. It just all depends on HOW you get there. If you’re chasing a premium overnight sailing tour, then this 2 day, 2 night beauty really is about as good as it gets. You can expect…
Renowned as the #1 party boat in Airlie Beach, this 34-metre mega sailing yacht is the best way to travel around the 74 Whitsundays Islands if you’ve got a taste for action and adventure. The Atlantic Clipper Whitsundays Adventure will give you the best of everything the Whitsundays has to offer. You will adventure by day, party by night. All of the epic snorkel locations you come to expect from The Whitsundays are included, as well as a visit to the famous Whitehaven Beach so you won’t be disappointed. If kicking back and making friends is your thing then this…
New Horizon is really the best value for money on the Whitsundays market. The New Horizon beauty is a gorgeous 21m traditional sailing vessel that has some incredible old school charm with modern luxuries, such as air conditioning and accommodation with up to 32 passengers. With 4 amazing crew that are sure to look after you, you'll get a slice of luxury on this epic trip. This boat is a classic wooden Schooner and one of the last solid timber boats built in Tasmania, made from famous Tasmanian hard wood, making her a solid, seaworthy boat. not only is it…
First of all, the All-Star team aboard Broomstick is one for the books, and they will welcome you to cruise with them on a breathtaking adventure through the Whitsundays. This tour will visit the best of the best of the Whitsundays, joining a stellar crew and ripping it up with 19 other guests. You’ll be able to engage in some amazing activities from snorkelling, bushwalking, sailing, and socialising the nights away. You will also have the chance to visit the famous Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout for some fun in the sun, marvellous viewpoints, and great photo opportunities. Now,…
Spend 4 days and 3 nights cruising around the tropical islands in the spacious, bright, and sophisticated Blizzard. Originally designed and built in France, this single hull sailing vessel boasts modern luxury inside and out. If you’re chasing a premium hands on sailing experience then Blizzard is perfect for you. This boat will set sail and guide through the Whitsundays passage to world class beaches, immaculate reefs and to secluded islands. There are tonnes of on board toys to keep you busy during your trip so feel free to make use of the snorkelling equipment, Sea Scooters, and Multi Person…
Siska Whitsundays tour gets it done. This is a full on adventure sailing boat. It’s a ‘Maxi Racer’, so if speed and adrenaline are your kinda thing then this could be for you. Getting from A to B won’t be done any quicker than aboard the Siska Whitsundays Maxi Racer, known for competing in races across the planet so it won’t disappoint. Set sail, hold on, and aim for the islands. Upon arrival at the islands, you’ll click into cruise mode and power from inlet to bay, exploring land and sea. Snorkel the tropical fringing reefs around the islands and…
In case you’re wondering, Airlie Beach isn’t just about snorkeling tours and boat trips. Some say the best way to see it is when you’re hurtling through the sky at 220kms per hour. As arguably one of the most popular drop zones in Australia, Airlie is a well sought after ‘tick in the box’ location to pick to do your Skydive. The Whitsundays’ 74 tropical Islands and the Conway National Park are on the menu as far as views are concerned, and like a wine, you can pair this jump with adrenaline, fear, or excitement. Jumping out of a plane…
Whitsundays Jet Ski Tours in Airlie Beach offer an experience like no other. There’s a reason they’re number #1 on Tripadvisor. Until you’ve been flying along at 50Kms per hour on a top of the range Sea-Doo Jet ski, you won’t know just how good it is. You’ll travel in a convoy led by your ski guide. They will cut out the best lines, suss out the best spots, and keep everyone safe. You just have to try and keep up. Expect to reach exhilarating speeds, tuck into tight turns, and enjoy the incredible scenery. Sea turtles, dugongs, and dolphins…
Experience the Whitsundays & Great Barrier Reef from above with this incredible 60-minute scenic flight departing from Airlie Beach. A guaranteed window seat, in-flight pilot commentary, and world-class views. This is not one to miss. The 60 minute Reef & Island flight with GSL Aviation will take you back in time as you soar over the prehistoric rainforests, deserted beaches, and tropical reef systems. If at this point you’re not too preoccupied with humming the theme tune to Jurassic Park, keep your eyes peeled as you fly over Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Don’t worry though, you’ll be guaranteed a…
If a day trip out to the secluded parts of Whitehaven Beach is what you’re chasing, then it doesn’t get much better than this. Forget spending your day snorkelling and catch some rays on this Ocean Rafting Southern Lights tour. This award winning company has some of the fastest boats on the coast, giving you maximum time at each location and a fun ride along the way through the 74 tropical islands. The knowledgeable onboard crew are there to show you a good time and keep you safe. All the main highlights such as Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet are…
For those wanting to quench that need for speed, look no further than Ocean Rafting. We assume that most of you reading this probably don’t already have your own speed boat or jetski so booking a tour is the likely option. If you’ve already checked out our Whitsundays blog, then you will have already heard about Ocean Rafting. If you haven’t, you know what to do. Ocean Rafting does the Whitsundays like no other. This award winning company has some of the fastest boats on the coast, giving you maximum time at each location and a fun ride along the…
When you think of a ‘Maxi Racing’ yacht, you may think of expensive champagne, luxury cars, and Rolex Yacht Week… Most people associate racing yachts with big pay checks and deep pockets but in this case, but you may be pleasantly surprised to know that this 3 day, 2 night sailing adventure won’t bust your budget. You’ll get more time to relax with your group and explore the best spots, all whilst sailing aboard a true Australian sailing icon. Condor has a true racing pedigree. This vessel has competed in every major race across the world and won pretty much…
This 3 day, 2 night sailing adventure is for the adventure seeker who is not afraid to get stuck in with everything from a sailing excursion to coral reef snorkelling. This ‘Maxi Racer’ offers 3 full days on the water, so if you’re looking for something a little longer than most and you froth at the idea of sailing through the beautiful Whitsundays Islands, this is definitely what you are looking for. Turtles and exotic marine life, beaches, and out-of-this-World sunsets. Sailing, friends for life, and memories to last forever. ‘Prosail’, the guys behind this tour, have been voted as…
This 2 day, 2 night ‘trimaran’ is recommended for a social adventurous traveller looking for speed, stability, and tons of deck space to sunbathe and relax. It’s a recommended 18-35’s trip, so expect to have the odd drink or two. It’s known to get lively, so if you’re planning a romantic couples getaway, this might not be for you. Avatar is one of the most popular boats on The Whitsundays. It’s known for being the only Trimaran on The Whitsundays (this means it has 3 hulls in parallel). As far as how it looks, it’s definitely one of the stylish…
If you’re looking to explore the Whitsunday Islands without breaking your travel budget, one day sailing adventure aboard the Tongarra offers incredible value for money. With only 24 people capacity, it’s one of the friendliest and most social boats on the Whitsundays. From checking in, to anchoring up, each step of the way is carefully thought out to give you the best experience possible. The crew are sure to help you see the best Whitsundays has to offer. You'll also have the opportunity to take part in a thrilling Banana Boat ride. En route, you’ll also have plenty of time…
Whether you’re a first time traveller or a fully-fledged grey-nomad there are no limits here. Across roads around Australia and New Zealand, you’ll meet people of all ages loving life as they bounce from place to place living life on the road. Campervans are suitable for those with a thirst for adventure looking to see all the hidden gems along the way.
It’s common knowledge that Australia and New Zealand can be pretty expensive places to travel. Depending on your spending habits you can make travelling in a campervan as cheap or as expensive as you like.
We find that a campervan is considerably cheaper if you are travelling in a group of two or more compared to booking public transport and paying for accommodation as you go.
In most campervans you combine all your sleeping, travelling and cooking needs into one. This helps cut costs as the overall cost is rolled into one.
If travelling solo you definitely rent a campervan although we recommend booking a bus pass that you can combine with accommodation. This way you’ll get to meet more people along the way and save a few bucks compared to renting a campervan on your own.
In short.. No. You can’t just pull up at Bondi Beach and set up camp for a few days and wave good morning to the lifeguards on shift. You should expect to check into the odd campsite here and there but with tons of free campgrounds across the country you can certainly do van-life on a budget.
We recommend that you check out a mix of campsites whilst on your travels. Check out the site Hipcamp (this is like the Airbnb of campgrounds) you can stay on peoples properties in incredible locations from as little as $6 per night. National Parks are also a great shout, there are tons of campgrounds in world-class locations for next to nothing. If you’re searching for free camps then check out wikicamps for a list of freedom camping sites, they are a great shout too.
Depending on what style of camper you choose i.e. 2-seater camper car, hi-top or motorhome you’ll see that size matters. The smaller the vehicle, the easier they are to drive. If you’re looking for something that drives like a car then we recommend a 2-seater camper car or a mid-sized hi-top. These come in both manual and automatic transmission and drive just like a normal car.
If you didn’t already know, fuel in Australia is super cheap and getting around is much cheaper than in Europe, The U.S.A & Canada. If you want to know how much your trip will cost you, just message us with your start and end destination and we’ll calculate exactly how much fuel you’ll need for your trip and what it costs.
We always recommend pre-booking as many dates as you think you’ll need to reach your destination as extending is always subject to supplier availability. If on your trip though you decide that you’re loving van-life and want to extend then just contact us, we’ll contact the supplier for you and ask if you can extend. Booking with Happy Travels makes life easy. Like, super easy.
If your travel is cancelled due to government implemented travel restrictions then please contact us immediately. We will contact the supplier and cancel your travel. You may request a refund which is subject to supplier terms and conditions. Each supplier’s terms and conditions may vary so it’s important to read these carefully before booking.
We provide a completely free service. Once you have purchased your choice of product, we get paid a commission by the supplier.
Good idea, but no. Unfortunately you can’t do that. Please follow government issued guidelines for all information relating to self-isolation and travel restrictions.
Dive in and get inspired by our latest travel blogs
