Seventy-four islands, one extraordinary destination. The Whitsundays invites you to explore a world beyond the ordinary  

Words by Lisa Keller  

White sand, warm water, and a horizon that never ends — the Whitsundays is the kind of place that lingers long after you leave. The icons need no introduction: Whitehaven’s swirl of turquoise and sand; Heart Reef’s almost-too-perfect symmetry. Now just a direct flight from Adelaide, this is the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.  

Island Time, Family Style  

Stay: Whether you’re after laid-back luxury or non-stop fun, the Whitsundays has you covered. Big4 Adventure Whitsundays is a family favourite, with minigolf, an outdoor cinema and more waterslides than you can count. For a slower pace, The Sundays on Hamilton Island strikes the perfect balance — Kids Club for the little ones, poolside aperitifs for you. Travelling with a full house? The Family Connect room delivers space and privacy with adjoining suites, separate bathrooms, dual balconies and a private master for the grown-ups. Or leave the planning to the pros – Daydream Island Resort’s family holiday package includes daily buffet breakfast, a guided Living Reef experience, outdoor cinema nights, and free meals and accommodation for kids under 12.  

Play: Forget the sightseeing bus. Touch down on the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach aboard a high-speed vessel with Ocean Rafting, Red Cat Adventures or Cruise Whitsundays. These all-in-one experiences are made for families — snorkel the vibrant coral of the Great Barrier Reef, hop between Daydream Island and Airlie Beach and let the crew handle the logistics (lunch, gear, transport — it’s all sorted). Want next-level memories? Take to the sky with a scenic flight over Heart Reef. No screensaver comes close. 

Eat: Dining with kids doesn’t have to mean chicken and chips. Eastwoods in Airlie Beach dishes up bold, modern Asian flavours, with a thoughtful kids’ menu that goes well beyond the basics. After something more laid-back? The Airlie Beach Hotel delivers easygoing charm, with classic pub favourites, live music and a 40-screen sports bar that keeps even the big kids entertained. 

Barefoot Brilliance  
 Play: Soar above Hill Inlet’s swirling sands and Heart Reef’s famous curves — a flight with Hamilton Island Air delivers the Whitsundays in their full, cinematic scale. For an even more immersive experience, land on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach or touch down beside Heart Reef itself, turning this iconic sightseeing into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Prefer to catch the natural wonders from eye-level? Cruise the islands aboard a luxury superyacht or chartered catamaran for an indulgent, up-close encounter with this breathtaking paradise. 

Stay: The Whitsundays offers luxe retreats and exclusive experiences designed to soothe, spoil, and inspire. Follow in Sir Elton John’s footsteps with a stay at the InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef — Queensland Tourism’s Best 5-Star Luxury Accommodation. Or retreat to Hamilton Island’s adults-only sanctuary, Qualia, featuring an 18-hole golf course, a state-of-the-art spa, and elegant oceanfront dining. If disconnecting from the everyday pace is your goal, the secluded luxury of Yangaro awaits. Nestled between dramatic mountains and tranquil Funnel Bay, this retreat invites you to reconnect through its state-of-the-art day spa, fitness centre and bespoke wellness experiences. 

Eat: At Coral Sea Pavilion, poolside dining is effortlessly refined — imagine line-caught fish, champagne on ice, and sweeping sea views. Meanwhile, Cats Eye Pool Club on Hamilton Island captures the essence of refined coastal dining with a distinctly Aussie flair. Celebrating local flavours and heartfelt connections, it’s the perfect spot to grab a casual bite or unwind at leisure. 

Adventure Awaits  
 Play: Skipper your own course across the Whitsundays’ 74 islands with bareboat charters from Portland Roads or Whitsunday Escape, discovering secluded beaches and hidden coves at your leisure. For adrenaline seekers, Pioneer Adventures’ jet boat from Airlie Beach races past reefs and coastline, offering heart-pounding thrills with expert guides. Cycle scenic mainland and island trails with Bike & Hikes, where every turn reveals breathtaking panoramas. Or paddle serene waters with Salty Dog Sea Kayaking, gliding alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat. Land or sea, the Whitsundays is your gateway to adventure.  

Stay: Wake up at the Great Barrier Reef with ReefSleep, a rare chance to sleep under the stars on a luxury pontoon. Elevate the experience with ReefSuites — Australia’s first underwater accommodation — offering uninterrupted views of vibrant marine life through glass walls. For those seeking refined seclusion, Elysian Retreat is completely off-grid and accessible only by boat or plane, proving elegance can coexist with sustainability. 

Eat: Hydeaway Bay’s Monte’s Bar & Grill is worth the detour: a laid-back beach shack slinging cold beers and seafood platters just metres from the sea. For something a bit closer to town, Northerlies is the place to be. Casual vibes, live music and a free shuttle bus to get you there and back in one piece.  

Head to thewhitsundays.com.au for more information.