Whitsunday Islands and Anchorages

Whether you are looking to explore pristine beaches, dive into fringing coral gardens or hike through lush island rainforests, the Whitsundays is a cruising paradise and home to some stunning locations. You can explore these via the interactive map below.

CLICK ON the markers below to find out more information on each location.

For itinerary suggestions, see our suggested itineraries which offer great suggestions to start the planning process. The team at Coral Sea Marina will happily share tales of their favourite anchorages, hidden spots and must-see locations!

When cruising the Whitsunday Islands, we highly recommend downloading the Eye on the Reef App which enables you to access zoning maps and rules. You can also purchase a copy of the 100 Magic Miles, by David Colfelt – a well-loved nautical guide to Whitsundays.

Blue Pearl Bay

Blue Pearl Bay is a local's favourite located the northern end of Hayman Island. The beach is made up of exquisite shells and coral, so shoes are recommended. Good snorkeling can be accessed directly off the beach, but the best coral and abundant fish life is located on the edge of the fringing reef approximately 30 metres offshore. It is also home to the underwater art sculpture of a Maori Wrasse, as part of the Ngaro Underwater Marine Sculpture Trail. The best dive site is between Castle Rock and Dolphin Point, accessible via tender. Be mindful of the tide when diving.

Latitude: 20° 02.538’S
Longitude: 148° 52.476’E

Burning Point

The beach at Burning Point is a significant bird site – a nesting beach for the threatened beach stone curlew. A 6kt speed limit applies within 200m of the beach from October to May. This anchorage has a small sandy beach and provides great protection in a southerly wind. Like many of the southern anchorages, they are often secluded and not used by local tourism operators, so there is a high chance you will have the anchorage to yourselves.

Latitude: 20° 30.033’S
Longitude: 149° 02.845’E

Butterfly Bay

Butterfly Bay is a local favourite for its fabulous diving and snorkelling, plus protection from most wind conditions. It gets its name from its butterfly habitants that awash the bay in the summer months. Occasionally you will see wild goats roaming the hillside. The bird life too at this anchorage is interesting with majestic sea eagles and brahmany kites a regular sight. There is a nice beach beach to enjoy should you want to hop off your boat.

Latitude: 20.0700° S
Longitude: 148.9278° E

Cateran Bay

Cateran Bay on Border Island provides a good daytime anchorage with access to crystal clear waters and some very good fringing reef for snorkeling or diving (best during a neap tide or in light southerly winds). There is a popular walking track leading to Mosstrooper Peak (214m) which if you set off early in the morning provides some exceptional 360 views of the islands as the sun rises. The track can be challenging so a certain level of fitness is required. Take plenty of water on the walk and don’t forget the camera to capture the hiking adventure.

Latitude: 20° 08.918’S
Longitude: 149° 01.806’E

Chalkies Beach

Chalkie’s is located directly opposite Whitehaven Beach and boasts the same beautiful, white, soft silica sand. It is a great spot for beachcombing, snorkelling (directly off the beach), exploring the bush track and taking plenty of photos - the perfect place to spend a day.It is a good anchorage in easterly and south-easterly winds whilst still remaining close to Whitehaven Beach.

Latitude: 20.2780° S
Longitude: 149.0764° E

Chance Bay

Chance Bay is a double bay with two sand beaches which are accessible via tender and is the perfect place to visit in a northerly wind. The snorkeling around the reef areas have some good coral and fish life. Accessible from Chance Bay is the walking track to Whitehaven Beach which forms part of the Ngaro Sea Trial. It passes through some of the Whitsunday finest forest and woodland and joins the Solway walking circuit to Whitehaven Beach. Chance Bay is a great spot to anchor overnight in a northerly wind whilst being in close proximity to Whitehaven Beach.

Latitude: 20° 18.832’S
Longitude: 149° 02.349’E

Cid Harbour

Located in the deep natural harbour between Cid and Whitsunday Islands, Cid Harbour is a popular night anchorage. There are beaches to explore as well as two bushwalks: A short walk from Dugong Beach to Sawmill Bay or you can take the walking track to Whitsunday Peak (437m) which is a steep climb for experienced walkers, however, the views are certainly worth it. Cid Harbour also has an interesting history as it was used by the Australian Navy in WWII as safe anchorage in inclement weather during the battle of the coral sea.

Latitude: 20° 14.30´ S
Longitude: 148° 56.00´ E

Daydream Island

Daydream Island Resort is open to visiting vessels, however a booking must be made.

If you are planning to visit Daydream Island in your own boat or you are seeking to explore the surrounding waters, you are welcome to contact Daydream Island to reserve a space at one of their mooring buoys or a berth in their small marina. Bookings are required prior to arrival and access to the island is only permitted via the island's marina.The resort has a large lagoon style pool with a swim-up pool bar, plus plenty of options for dining. There is also The Living Reef - an incredible outdoor aquarium that features corals, tropical fish, sharks, stingrays and more with resident marine biologists on hand to share their passion.

Latitude: 20.2558° S
Longitude: 148.8139° E

Gap Beach

Gap Beach is on the northern shore of Lindeman Island and is a good anchorage when the winds are light. The aspect offers great views northwards towards Pentecost Island and the islands of the Whitsunday group. It is a great spot for fishing and bushwalking.

Latitude: 20° 25.685’S
Longitude: 149° 02.692’E

Grassy Island

Grassy Island, and neighbouring Armit Island or Woodwark Bay, are relatively unvisited anchorage options that provide wind protection and seclusion. They are also all in close proximity to Coral Sea Marina, and therefore make a great first or last night anchorage.Known for it's bird life, there is a 6kt speed limit in place within 200 metres of the shore of Grassy Island.Enjoy fishing, nature photography, and the peace and quiet!

Latitude: 20° 08.526’S
Longitude: 148° 35.807’E

Hamilton Island

Hamilton Island is the largest island resort in the Whitsundays. For those wanting to step foot on solid land and explore the vibrant island, you can berth in the marina overnight and make use of the resort facilities - this is great if you need to restock your vessel, or simply enjoy some island-time. The resort has several pools, restaurants, bars, a bakery, day spa, boutiques, bottleshop and small supermarket, pharmacy - plus plenty of activities to be enjoyed!

Latitude: 20.3519° S
Longitude: 148.9573° E

Hayman Island

Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort is an iconic Whitsundays haven, with world-class restaurants, pool area and breathtaking accommodation options.In partnership with InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, vessel owners berthed at our marina can have exclusive access some great berthing & accommodation rates at Hayman Island.For further information on offers available, please contact either the Coral Sea Marina team on marina@csmr.com.au or contact Hayman Island reservations directly on (07) 5501 9992 or email reservations@ihg.com and quote code IKOTHCSM

Latitude: 20.0500° S
Longitude: 148.8888° E

Hill Inlet

Hill Inlet is one of the most photographed locations in the whole of Australia - and for good reason! The spectacular blue-green swirling hues change with each tide and swimming in the shallows is a real treat - keep an eye out for stingrays and harmless lemon sharks.Access to Hill Inlet is via anchoring in Tongue Bay and hiking the bush track over Tongue Point (via the famous Hill Inlet Lookout where you will get an elevated view of this picturesque location - don't forget your cameras!)Hot Tip - try to time your visit to the lookout at mid-tide (outgoing) for the best views of the swirling sands.

Latitude: 20.2458° S
Longitude: 149.0205° E

Hydeaway Bay

Hydeaway Bay and neighbouring Gloucester Island are popular spots with the cruising fraternity! At Hydeaway Bay you will find the unique down-to-earth beach resorts of Monte’s Reef Resort and Cape Gloucester Eco Resort, both serving lunch and dinner daily and provide a nice location for an afternoon of beach-combing and cocktails at sunset.This is a well protected bay from most wind conditions and is a great option should you want to hop ashore, order some lunch or dinner at a restaurant, and sit back under the palms.The area is popular for fishing – refer to your zoning charts.

Latitude: 20° 02.350’S
Longitude: 148° 26.252’E

Langford Island

Though small in size, Langford Island is definitely a must-see location! This beautiful island is situated directly opposite Hayman Island and is known for its picturesque sand spit, which at low tide stretches for several hundred metres and almost completely disappears by high tide. It is the perfect spot for a beach picnic or lounging in the shallow waters, and there is snorkelling directly off the beach to the east of the island where you may encounter abundant marine life. There is also a great (short) walking track located on the island itself.

Latitude: 20.0795° S
Longitude: 148.8730° E

Long Island

Long Island is a fantastic spot to visit or spend the night.The bays are calm and perfect for a SUP or kayak! There are also several kilometres of bushwalks throughout the island for those who would like to explore and stretch their legs.Long Island is home to Palm Bay Resort which welcomes day guests (for a fee) - be sure to head to Reception upon arrival to check in and then use the resort amenities including restaurant and pool.There are two other resorts on Long Island: Happy Bay (resort closed) is a lovely overnight anchorage and Elysian Retreat (not open to outside visitors).

Latitude: 20.3629° S
Longitude: 148.8547° E

Luncheon Bay and Mantaray Bay

Both Luncheon Bay and neighbouring Mantaray Bay provide great snorkelling with an abundance of marine life. Luncheon Bay provides a great spot to stop for lunch, hence the name, and has easily accessible coral reefs that you can snorkel right off the beach. Next door to the north is Mantaray Bay which is one of the most popular snorkelling spots for local tour guides due to the amazing number of fish that live here, including the friendly Maori Wrasse that will often say hello to visiting snorkellers. We recommend a visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Latitude: 20° 03.670’S
Longitude: 148° 56.025’E

Macona Inlet

A sister bay to Nara Inlet, Macona Inlet is also a tranquil and calm anchorage framed by tropical mountains. Often less busy than Nara, there are plenty of small sandy beaches to explore at low tide. For those interested in snorkelling, you can access some good coral at Raven’s Cove in between Nara and Macona.

Latitude: 20° 09.323’S
Longitude: 148° 55.574’E

Nara Inlet

Nara Inlet is a popular and very protected anchorage. This fjord-like inlet has steep mountainous sides of dense rainforest and the calm waters provide tranquility. There are also a handful of small beautiful beaches to explore. One of the most intriguing features of Nara Inlet is the Ngaro Aboriginal cultural site, a cave with traditional paintings dating over 8,000 years old, located at the furthest end. There is a bush-track accessible with interpretive signage along the way explaining the significance of the site - it is a fascinating cultural journey.

Latitude: 20.1500° S
Longitude: 148.9000° E

Neck Bay

Neck Bay on Shaw Island is a southerly anchorage and therefore relatively unvisited. It has a beautiful sandy beach and you can walk over the neck of the island (hence the name) to the beach on the eastern side if you are wishing to explore. If you go ashore for a walk or BBQ, be sure to anchor the dinghy well out and watch the tide.

Latitude: 20° 27.501’S
Longitude: 149° 04.529’E

Roberta Bay

Another secluded anchorage on Shaw Island is Roberta Bay, which is the perfectly anchorage to hide from a northerly wind. A quiet and quaint bay with a nice sandy beach, perfect for relaxing and watching the rock wallabies skit across the rocks in the bushland behind. As with most of the anchorages in the southern group of islands you will likely have the anchorage to yourself as you relax and enjoy the serenity from the deck.

Latitude: 20° 29.507’S
Longitude: 149° 05.375’E

Saba Bay

Saba Bay is a perfect option during northerly winds. This often unvisited location offers great snorkelling, pristine coral reefs with a variety of colour and an abundancy of marine life, as well as a number of beaches that can be enjoyed at mid-tide. There are even some caves at the eastern most point of the bay which are fun to explore.

Latitude: 20°04'24" S
Longitude: 148°55'55" E

South Molle Island

South Molle Island offers fantastic beaches, numerous bays and inlets, and is also home to 16km of walking and cycling tracks. This inshore island offers a great scenic retreat, with some stunning lookouts and is part of the Ngaro Sea Trail. It is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, SUP/Kayaing and photography. A great location for both on board and ashore.

Latitude: 20.2688° S
Longitude: 148.8369° E

Stonehaven

Unquestionably one of the best locations from which to experience a Whitsunday sunset, Stonehaven is a beautiful anchorage for overnight stays and is popular due to its close proximity to some of the best snorkelling and diving spots nearby.There are free moorings available and three 'bays' to choose from for overnight stays. It is also a great spot for fishing and in the summer months after heavy rain you can find a refreshing waterfall in the eastern corner of Stonehaven.

Latitude: 20° 05.507’S
Longitude: 148° 53.644’E

Thomas Island

Thomas Island feels like a remote corner of the Whitsundays and is likely to afford more solitude than some of the other central island anchorages. Sea Eagle Beach and Naked Lady Beach both provide stunning sandy beaches reminiscent of the movie South Pacific. If you are looking for true tropical escapism, then look no further than the anchorages on Thomas Island. Lush rainforest covers the island giving it that true tropical island feel.

Latitude: 20° 33.236’S
Longitude: 149° 07.446’E

Tongue Bay

Tongue Bay is the anchorage which provides access to the stunning rainforest walking track, leading to the famous lookout overlooking the iconic swirling sands of Hill Inlet. The beach access at Tongue Bay is best accessed on a rising tide, as you can easily spend a few hours exploring the walking tracks and the beautiful Betty's Beach at the other side of the headland. Tongue Bay is a popular anchorage with day visitors, so choose your time to visit carefully. Early morning or late afternoon will avoid the crowds. Part of the Ngaro Sea Trial, the walking track is scattered with interpretive information about the traditional owners of the Whitsundays.

Latitude: 20.2397° S
Longitude: 149.0176° E

Turtle Bay

Turtle bay consists of a beautiful series of bays just east of Fitzalan Passage. There is some good snorkeling on the reef to the north of the western side of the anchorage and visibility is best in neap tides and if the wind has been northerly for most of the day. The white sandy beaches scattered throughout the anchorage are all worth a visit at any time of the day. It is a good spot for a kayak or a SUP. Perfect in a northerly, this bay is a great spot for spotting marine life, particularly turtles!

Latitude: 20° 18.933’S
Longitude: 148° 59.631’E

Whitehaven Beach

Sink your toes into the white silica sands of the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. This 7km stretch of pristine crystal waters are a must-see when visiting the Whitsundays. Relax with a picnic, swim in the azure waters, stroll along the expansive beach or hike the bush tracks to a fabulous lookouts – not matter what time of the day or evening this beach is a truly unforgettable experience. South Whitehaven Beach is a suitable anchorage in our typical southeast winds.

Latitude: 20° 16.699’S
Longitude: 149° 03.195’E

Woodwark Bay

Situated on the Whitsunday mainland coast just north of Airlie Beach, Woodwark Bay is a quiet and calm spot that is perfect for a first or last night anchorage due to its close proximity to Coral Sea Marina.There is a small beach accessible at low tide with a rough walking track over Grimston Point for those wanting to explore. It is also a great spot for fishing or kayaking/SUP.

Latitude: 20.1961° S
Longitude: 148.6542° E

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