The Marina is Just the Beginning…
The Whitsundays is a paradise for boat owners, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning island landscapes. Whether you’re an avid diver, a beach lover, or looking for luxury experiences, the Whitsundays has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best activities you can enjoy, from the reef to the shore.
Snorkelling and Diving
The Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays’ fringing reefs are some of the best places in the world to explore underwater life. Popular snorkelling and diving spots include:
- Hardy Reef & The Great Barrier Reef – Home to the famous Heart Reef, this location offers incredible visibility and diverse marine species.
- Manta Ray Bay (Hook Island) – A haven for manta rays, coral bommies, and schools of tropical fish.
- Blue Pearl Bay (Hayman Island) – Known for its vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life.
- Luncheon Bay (Hook Island) – A sheltered bay with pristine coral formations and friendly fish.
- Black Island (Bali Hai) – The reef here is seldom visited by the bigger boats, and is very diverse. There are a few colonies of clown fish that live here, and sometimes turtles stop by.
Island Walking Trails
For those who love to explore on foot, the Whitsunday Islands offer a range of walking trails with breathtaking views:
- Whitsunday Peak (Whitsunday Island) – A challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the islands.
- Passage Peak (Hamilton Island) – A moderately difficult trek with incredible sunrise views over the Coral Sea.
- Dugong-Sawmill Track (Whitsunday Island) – An easier walk through lush rainforests, perfect for nature lovers.
- South Molle Island Trail – A scenic trail with views over the Whitsunday Passage and beautiful beaches.
Island Resorts
For a touch of luxury, or simply to step foot on solid ground, boat owners can visit or stay at some of the region’s top island resorts:
- Hamilton Island – Offering world-class dining, a golf course, and various water activities.
- Hayman Island – A five-star resort with private beaches, fine dining, and a luxurious spa.
- Daydream Island – Known for its living reef experience and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Palm Bay Resort (Long Island) – A secluded retreat with beachfront villas and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Coral Sea Resort – Whilst technically not an island, we can’t miss up the opportunity to recommend our own Coral Sea Resort, located on the absolute oceanfront in Airlie Beach, just a 2 minute stroll from Coral Sea Marina.
Best Beaches
No trip to the Whitsundays is complete without experiencing its breathtaking beaches:
- Whitehaven Beach (Whitsunday Island) – World-famous for its silica sand and turquoise waters.
- Langford Island Sandbar – A stunning spot to relax and enjoy shallow snorkelling.
- Chalkies Beach (Haslewood Island) – A lesser-known but equally beautiful alternative to Whitehaven.
- Horseshoe Bay (Bowen) – A mainland gem with calm waters and a great spot for snorkelling.
Fishing in the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef
For fishing enthusiasts, the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef offer exceptional opportunities to catch a variety of fish species:
- Reef Fishing – Target species such as coral trout, red emperor, and Spanish mackerel in the outer reef areas.
- Estuary Fishing – The Whitsundays’ estuaries and mangroves are home to barramundi, mangrove jack, and trevally.
- Game Fishing – Offshore waters are perfect for chasing marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi.
Be sure to check local fishing regulations and marine park zoning to ensure sustainable and legal fishing practices.
Mainland Activities in Airlie Beach and Surrounding Areas
If you’re staying with us here at Coral Sea Marina, or hopping on dry land for the day, there’s plenty to see and do onshore:
- Airlie Beach Lagoon – A free, family-friendly swimming spot with ocean views.
- Conway National Park – Home to scenic rainforest trails, such as the Coral Beach Walk or the more challenging Honeyeater Lookout.
- Cedar Creek Falls – A beautiful waterfall perfect for a refreshing swim.
- Sunset Dining & Bars – Enjoy waterfront dining at places like Sorrento’s, Coral Sea Pavilion or The Garden Bar Bistro.
- Markets & Shopping – Visit the Airlie Beach Markets on Saturdays for local crafts and fresh produce.
- Explore even further afield and enjoy the townships of Bowen and Proserpine, or adventure further inland to the spectacular Eungella National Park.
The Whitsundays is a dream destination for boat owners, offering endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re snorkelling vibrant reefs, hiking scenic trails, or indulging in island luxury, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Set sail and explore the best of the Whitsundays today!
