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Manta Ray Drop Off dive site — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Manta Ray Drop Off Dive Site - Bait Reef

Bait Reef, sitting behind the Whitsunday Islands on the Great Barrier Reef, is home to the spectacular Manta Ray Drop Off – this dive site boasts stunning underwater cliffs, as well as a plunging wall that drops to 75 metres. The wall is covered with gorgonians, soft corals, sponges and sea whips, all full of resident reef fish and invertebrate species. Manta Ray Drop Off has lots to offer both snorkelers and divers alike, with shallower reefs leading to the steep underwater cliffs. Best known for the soaring manta rays found cruising up and down the wall in Australia’s winter months, the Manta Ray Drop Off is also home to reef sharks, turtles, Maori wrasse and schools of pelagics all year round. With exposure to southerly winds, the dive site is highly prone to strong currents, so is best dived during slack water and neap tides.

Bait Reef QLD

0.1 km away

Airlie Beach Lagoon — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Parks and Gardens

Airlie Beach Lagoon

The Airlie Beach Lagoon is situated in the centre of Airlie Beach right at the oceanfront, surrounded by grassy sunbathing spots, playgrounds and BBQ areas. If you want to spend a relaxing day with no admission fee "spend a day at the Lagoon". It is a popular hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. It is built on a raised breakwater, giving an excellent view out to the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. It provides an environment that is completely safe from stingers and marine wildlife, all year round. The facility includes a sheltered wading pool for toddlers, a shallow 1.5 metre maximum depth children's pool and a larger pool which has a maximum depth of 2 metres with separate swimming lanes for fitness enthusiasts and disabled access. The Lagoon is open to the public every day with lifeguards patrolling all year long.

Airlie Beach QLD

0.2 km away

Coral Sea Marina aerial photo — Image credit: Coral Sea Marina Resort

Landmarks and Buildings

Coral Sea Marina

Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning 520 wet berth marina located in the heart of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef. Coral Sea Marina offers premium marina facilities and a range of concierge services for vessels up to 80 metres. Coral Sea Marina is part of Coral Sea Marina Resort, a tourist destination that also includes a 78-room waterfront boutique resort, two vibrant marina villages, an inspiring calendar of events and is home to 80 percent of the region's on-water tourism products, making Coral Sea Marina Resort the ultimate place to stay, play, explore the Whitsundays. Coral Sea Marina Resort was Queensland's first five Gold Anchor Platinum accredited marina, was awarded Australian Marina of the Year 2017/18, 2019/20, then entered the Hall of Fame in 2021. Also awarded Superyacht Industry Facility of the Year in 2026 and is a Superyacht Ready accredited marina. Providing premium marina facilities, exceptional service, and a vibrant marina village is what makes Coral Sea Marina the most popular marina in the Whitsundays. The marina is the gateway to Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Located a short walk from downtown Airlie Beach with an abundance of cafes, restaurants, bars this premier marina facility provides rest, relaxation and entertainment for all visitors.

Airlie Beach QLD

0.5 km away

learn to scuba — Image credit: I own this photo

Natural Attractions

Airlie Beach Dive Centre

Airlie Beach Swim Centre specialise in swimming lessons in Airlie Beach from babies to adults with an eye on water safety and survival skills. Their mission for the Whitsundays is to inspire and encourage water activities, support, teach ethical and ecological responsibilities to water safety while as well as taking care of the precious Great Barrier Reef. The primary focus of Airlie Beach Swim Centre school is on water safety in and around water Pool Safety Inspections and Certification, secondly, to stay fit and healthy and finally to empower people with employment opportunities through the various Swim Teacher, Pool lifeguard and PADI Dive Courses. Furthermore, their aim is not just to provide aquatic services but to help improve the quality of life within the community.

Airlie Beach QLD

0.5 km away

Airlie Beach Track — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

The Airlie Creek Track

The 850-meter Airlie Creek Track gently ascends the hill behind Airlie Beach in Conway National Park. This gravel path features rare flora and fauna, including the Whitsunday Bottle Tree and the endangered Proserpine Rock Wallaby, both unique to this region. As you walk through the tranquil forest, you'll encounter magnificent fig trees, subtropical plants, and beautiful native birds. The trail leads to scenic natural rock pools. On your return journey, you'll be treated to views of the stunning blue Coral Sea and the Whitsunday Islands framed by lush greenery. Walking time: Allow one hour. Access: From Waterson Way, Airlie Beach.

Airlie Beach QLD

0.6 km away

The Hangover Dive Site

Natural Attractions

The Hangover Dive Site

The Hangover, located off Airlie Beach on the Great Barrier Reef, is a wall dive with exciting terrain to be negotiated by the diver. Larger marine life such as Giant Trevally, Barramundi, Cod and Mackeral to be found in this pelagic area. No previous history of this site, so surface and tell them what you saw!

Whitsundays QLD

0.6 km away

Vibrant, original, tropical abstract artwork displayed on our main gallery walls — Image credit: Cocoast Art Gallery – Jules Topaz

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cocoast Art Gallery

Cocoast Art Gallery is a boutique contemporary art gallery in Airlie Beach, featuring original works by founder and local artist Jules Topaz. Specialising in contemporary tropical art, the gallery showcases textured, colourful pieces inspired by nature. Visitors can explore original paintings and gift-sized artworks in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Whether you are an art collector, nature lover, or simply exploring the Whitsundays, Cocoast Art Gallery offers an opportunity to discover locally created artwork, conveniently located just metres from Coral Sea Marina.

Airlie Beach QLD

0.8 km away

Boathaven Beach — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Boathaven Beach

Boathaven Beach is the ideal destination for holidaymakers looking to enjoy a swim and soak up the sun. This all-tide beach is located just a short walk from the main street of Airlie Beach, adjacent to the Port of Airlie Marina. Visitors can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the stunning views of the Coral Sea and the surrounding islands. After a relaxing beach day, you can easily head over to the nearby Port of Airlie Marina for shopping and great dining options.

Airlie Beach QLD

1.1 km away

Internal Photo of Above and Below Gallery — Image credit: Brooke Miles

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Above and Below Gallery

Above and Below Gallery is dedicated to capturing the world from a perspective few ever see - both above the water and below it. Through stunning aerial photography of the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, alongside intimate underwater encounters with humpback whales and vibrant reef life, the gallery offers a collection that is as diverse as it is extraordinary. Owner and creative photographer Brooke Miles combines her passions for scuba diving and photography to create images that reveal the reef's full character- from its playful, colourful marine life to the hauntingly beautiful scenes often missed by visitors. Her work highlights the intricate patterns, textures, and vibrant hues of the Great Barrier Reef and showcases the magic of the Whitsunday Islands and the nearby mainland. The gallery extends beyond photography, offering a carefully curated gift range. Limited-edition silk scarves and sarongs feature Brooke's iconic images of the reef, while a marine-inspired collection of Australian-made, handcrafted jewellery celebrates the ocean's beauty. Above and Below Gallery is more than a space to view art - it's an immersive experience that invites visitors to explore the extraordinary marine and island landscapes of the Whitsundays, celebrating the wonder of life both above and beneath the surface.

Airlie Beach QLD

1.1 km away

Cannonvale Beach — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Cannonvale Beach

Situated just three kilometres to the west of Airlie Beach, on a north facing stretch of sand, is Cannonvale Beach. With a stinger net for safe swimming in the summer months, a children's playground, and a delightful cafe on the foreshore, Cannonvale Beach is one of locals favourite spots to spend their free time. There are children’s play areas, public toilets, barbecue and picnic spots along the waterfront. As you walk along the footpath to the end of the beach you’ll find a curious molten rock formation begging to be explored, with rock pools to be combed over at low tide.

Cannonvale QLD

2.0 km away

Yoga Airlie Beach

Spas and Retreats

Fitness Venue Whitsunday

Enhance your holiday with some of your regular health routines at Fitness Venue Whitsunday. Fitness Venue's facilities and services include a range of options for strength training, cardio training, functional training, gravity training and Olympic lifting. The Venue also includes a range of group fitness options including Les Mills classes, boxing & bike, Pilates and Yoga. Any visit can include an Ice bath or Infrared Sauna.

Cannonvale QLD

2.1 km away

Cherrie Baby is one of the best places in Australia to shop for Jellycat plush toys. — Image credit: Cherrie Baby

Shopping and Markets

Cherrie Baby

Cherrie Baby is one of the best shopping destinations in the Whitsundays, with stores in both Proserpine and Cannonvale. It's so much more than just a baby shop, with over 90 of the best brands of kids clothing, shoes, toys, accessories, prams and more! If you've forgotten your child's swimmers, baby hat, shoes or favourite toy when you packed your suitcase you can be sure to find what you need at Cherrie Baby. The store is an experience in itself that attracts visitors from all over, full of beautiful things for babies and children. Cherrie Baby is also one of the largest stockists in Australia of Jellycat soft toys and their huge wall of Jellycats has become a popular attraction. Shop with confidence, knowing that every product they feature has been chosen with love and care from brands like Goldie & Ace, Huxbaby, Olli Ella, UppaBaby, Toshi and more.

Cannonvale QLD

4.8 km away

Whitsunday Green Club (Golf)

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Whitsunday Green Club (Golf)

Whitsunday Green Club offers a captivating nine-hole Par Three golf course, alongside a convenient self-service driving range and a fully stocked Pro Shop. Guests can unwind in the inviting atmosphere of the licenced air-conditioned Club House Café, offering a delightful selection of refreshments. The course is tailored to accommodate golfers of all levels, promising an exhilarating experience that adapts to individual preferences. With only three clubs required—a pitching wedge, sand wedge, and putter—swift play and heightened enjoyment are guaranteed. Club rentals are available, and the experienced golf pro stands ready to elevate games with personalised lessons. Whitsunday Green isn't just about golf; it's a haven for leisure and social gatherings, ideal for corporate events, group outings, and tournaments. Visitors can slip into enclosed flat-soled shoes and don a favourite sun hat for a day of excitement under the sun. Experience the essence of golf and leisure at Whitsunday Green—a destination where every moment promises adventure and camaraderie.

Cannon Valley QLD

6.2 km away

Aerial view of Cedar Creek falls in Conway National Park — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Cedar Creek Falls

A beloved destination for tourists and locals alike, Cedar Creek Falls is a serene sanctuary of pristine natural beauty and tranquility. Tucked away behind a curtain of trees and rocks, this hidden gem is like a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. Follow the winding path and let the lush trees and bushes guide you to this breathtaking oasis. With its loyal following, Cedar Creek Falls is the perfect destination for a refreshing dip in freshwater. Surrounded by majestic cedar trees and a towering rocky wall, the cascading waterfall with its sparkling water will take your breath away. Cedar Creek Falls is nestled halfway between Airlie Beach and Proserpine, only 30 and 20 kilometres away, respectively. As you make your way to the falls, you’ll be treated to a scenic drive through picturesque countryside, with stunning views of lush cane fields. Upon arriving, you’ll find the falls just a short stroll away from the parking area, making it the perfect destination for a quick day trip. With its convenient location and easy access, Cedar Creek Falls is the ideal escape for anyone seeking a tranquil retreat without the hassle of a long journey. Please note: For your own safety, jumping and diving from the waterfall is strictly prohibited.

Palm Grove QLD

16 km away

Proserpine Museum — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Proserpine Historical Museum

Visit the Historical Proserpine Museum, where you can explore the fascinating history of this sugar cane and cattle town, as well as the wider Whitsundays region. The facility serves as a multi-purpose venue that houses the museum's collection and provides opportunities for genealogical research and extensive studies of local history. The museum features a vast array of printed materials, photographs, and artifacts that reflect the area’s history, from its first inhabitants—the Juru, Gia, Bira, and Ngaro people—to the early European pioneers and post-war settlers. This cultural centre not only offers educational benefits to locals and visitors alike, but it has also become a hub for local arts and crafts, book fairs, and traveling exhibitions. Importantly, the museum is managed and maintained entirely by volunteers.

Proserpine QLD

20 km away

Gallery — Image credit: Linda Forrester

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Community Art Gallery - Creative Connections Whitsunday

Creative Connections Community Gallery is a welcoming local art space in the heart of Proserpine, showcasing original artworks, handmade gifts and artist merchandise by talented creatives from across the Whitsundays. The gallery features a changing collection of paintings, photography, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, jewellery and mixed media works. Visitors are warmly invited to browse, be inspired and support local artists while discovering the creative spirit of our region.

Proserpine QLD

20 km away

Nara Inlet water and island view — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Nara Inlet

Nestled in the south east end of the Whitsundays’ Hook Island is Nara Inlet, a secluded bay with tranquil waters that reflect the dense forestry that covers the island’s steep hills. The clear water acts as a window to the fringing reef and is known for its sheltered anchorage and easy access to the island. Within the hills of the inlet is the Ngaro cultural site; caves with ancient rock wall paintings and interactive displays where you can learn about the history of the Ngaro Aboriginal people. A visit to Nara Inlet is not complete without venturing further down to the bottom of the inlet, where you will find a magical fresh-water rock pool and refreshing waterfall, however this natural pool only flows during the rainy seasons.

Whitsundays QLD

23 km away

Hamilton Island Golf Club — Image credit: Hamilton Island Enterprises

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Hamilton Island Golf Club

Tee off beside the Whitsundays at the Hamilton Island Golf Club, one of the world's premier golfing destinations. The course is adjacent to Hamilton Island on its own patch of paradise, Dent Island. Designed by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson, it is the only championship course in Australia on its own island. The par 71, 18-hole course is on par with Australia's top golfing destinations for its design, location and facilities. The course boasts a variety of obstacles for those willing to take on the challenge – wicked winds; impenetrable bushland; people have even called the 14th hole, the ‘Valley of Death’. Spectacularly located with panoramic Whitsundays views, the Hamilton Island course will challenge and delight weekend golfers and professionals alike. Plus, the contemporary Clubhouse is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal after an unforgettable golfing experience.

Hamilton Island QLD

26 km away

Hamilton Island Yacht Club

Landmarks and Buildings

Hamilton Island Yacht Club

Hamilton Island Yacht Club is an exclusive port of call for visitors docking in the Hamilton Island Marina. The state-of-the-art yacht club features recreational and business facilities including a contemporary restaurant and bar which overlooks the marina, a private dining room, conference and function rooms overlooking Dent Passage and an inspiring central atrium space for events. Located nearby are the Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas offering three or four bedroom luxury accommodation ideal for families or groups. Each villa has spectacular views of Dent Passage, Whitsunday Passage, and the mainland. All include a spacious, open plan living, designer kitchen, and golf buggy to get around.

Hamilton Island QLD

27 km away

Langford Island with its long sandy cay at low ocean tide — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Langford Island

Though small in size, Langford Island is one of the Whitsundays' true hidden gems. Located near Hayman Island in the northern part of the chain, it's a favourite stop for sailors, snorkellers, and divers exploring the region. Bareboats and crewed charters often anchor nearby, drawn in by the island's unique beauty and easy access to the reef. Langford Island is best known for its long, narrow sand spit, which stretches out into the sea at low tide and almost disappears when the tide rises. It's the perfect spot for a picnic, sunbathing, a refreshing swim, or snorkelling right off the beach. The best snorkelling and diving is found at the north-western end of the beach, where scattered bommies form an intriguing maze of coral formations. For those seeking a bit more depth, a few shallow walls on the eastern end of the island offer even more to explore. Expect colourful marine life and great visibility. Beyond the beach, a short and scenic hiking trail offers panoramic views across the reef—perfect for photo ops or a quiet moment above the water. Whether you're sailing through the Whitsundays or looking for the ultimate day-trip destination, Langford Island is a must-see slice of paradise.

Whitsundays QLD

27 km away

Blue Pearl Bay — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Blue Pearl Bay, Hayman Island

Blue Pearl Bay is situated on the northwestern side of Hayman Island, part of the Whitsundays Group. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and sightseeing. The bay is renowned for its vibrant coral and diverse marine life, including a resident Maori Wrasse. Private charters and overnight boats frequently visit Blue Pearl Bay for snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. Most visitors either swim directly from their vessel or take a tender to the southern beach, where they enter the water from the coral beach. Diving at Blue Pearl Bay ranges in depth from 3 to 18 meters, with visibility typically ranging from 3 to 15 meters.

Hayman Island QLD

30 km away

InterContinental Hayman Island Resort | Hayman Spa — Image credit: InterContinental Hayman Island Resort | Hayman Spa

Spas and Retreats

Hayman Spa

Welcome to Hayman Spa, the heart of Hayman Wellness, where the island's natural rhythm restores balance to body, mind, and spirit. Cradled within the InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, this sanctuary is shaped by the elements: land, sea, and sky, and inspired by nature's quiet wisdom. Step into one of 8 bespoke treatment rooms, including the serene Bamboo Loft Suite, and journey through their Spa Oasis, where steam, plunge, and sauna invite release and renewal. Their treatments weave together the sensory alchemy of Subtle Energies and Elemis, two globally celebrated skincare houses that harness the vitality of botanicals and the precision of modern science. Every ritual here is an offering, a moment to realign, restore, and remember your connection to nature's rhythm. Open daily, 9:30am – 6:00pm.

Hayman Island QLD

30 km away

Butterfly Bay, Hook Island — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Butterfly Bay - Hook Island, Whitsundays

Butterfly Bay, located on the northern side of Hook Island in the Whitsundays, is a popular anchorage for bareboat travelers. It offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving and provides protection from most wind conditions. The bay is named after its butterfly inhabitants, which can sometimes be spotted on the beach during certain times of the year. There are limited public moorings available, but visitors can enjoy snorkeling along the bay's edge or just off the beach. The area features coral outcrops with shallow walls and is home to a variety of small, colorful reef fish. The best snorkeling spots, known as bommies, can be found in the center of the bay, although they may be challenging to locate at high tide. It's important to be cautious of tidal currents when moving toward the center of the bay. Visibility in the water ranges from 2 to 10 meters, with diving depths between 5 and 12 meters. The seabed consists of coral cover, with large patches of coral rubble and silty sand. Butterfly Bay is an excellent snorkeling and diving location that offers protection from most wind conditions and has its namesake butterfly inhabitants found on the beach at certain times of the year.

Hook Island QLD

31 km away

View to the Hill Inlet from the Tongue Point lookout — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Hill Inlet

Hill Inlet in the Whitsundays is a stunning inlet located at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, the largest of the 74 islands in the Whitsundays. As the tide shifts, the white sand and blue hues of the inlet blend seamlessly to create a breathtaking mosaic. Hill Inlet is best viewed from the lookout at Tongue Point on Whitsunday Island. Most people moor their boats in Tongue Bay, take a dingy ashore and make the short uphill walk to the lookout for breathtaking views. If possible, try to reach the lookout when the tide is low to fully experience the beautiful fusion of colours that emerge. There are several ways to experience the beauty of Hill Inlet. Many companies offer day trips to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet by ferry, power boat or luxury yacht. Most overnight sailing trips also stop here. Another amazing way to grasp the view of Hill Inlet is on a scenic flight. Not all operators visit Hill Inlet and the Tongue Point lookout on a Whitehaven Beach visit, so be sure to check before you book if you'd like to go to the lookout.

Airlie Beach QLD

32 km away

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