Airlie Beach is the gateway to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands.

Airlie Beach

  • 🏝️ Gateway to the Whitsundays. Airlie Beach is the perfect launching point for exploring the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.  Daiily sailing, snorkelling, and diving tours.

  • 🌊 Airlie Beach Lagoon.   This stunning saltwater lagoon in the heart of town offers a safe, stinger-free swimming spot. Visitors can enjoy ocean views, perfect for families and visitors looking to cool off.

  • ⛵ Sailing Capital of Australia.  Known for its world-class sailing experiences, Airlie Beach is home to luxury yachts, catamarans, and classic tall ships. Offering unforgettable day trips and liveaboard adventures.

  • 🌅 Vibrant Beachfront Atmosphere. With waterfront cafes, lively bars, and local markets. A relaxed tropical vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure.

  • 🏖️ Stunning Nearby Beaches.  Visit Whitehaven Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, or take a short drive to Cedar Creek Falls, where you can swim in a natural rainforest waterfall.

  • 🐠 Incredible Reef & Wildlife Encounters. From snorkelling with tropical fish to spotting sea turtles and humpback whales (in season), paradise for nature lovers.

  • 🎶 Exciting Events & Nightlife. With annual festivals, live music, and buzzing nightlife. Plenty of entertainment and a fun social scene for travellers.

About Airlie Beach

  • Area: 3.2 kilometres square
  • Location: 20.26769. 148.71496
  • Elevation: 31 metres
  • Founded: 1936
  • Population: 1208 (2016 census)
  • Postcode: 4802

Airlie Beach – The Heart of the Whitsundays

Tucked along the stunning Whitsunday Coast, Airlie Beach is the perfect mix of tropical relaxation and adventure.  Offering easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands. With its laid-back coastal vibe, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking scenery, Airlie Beach is more than just a gateway—it’s a destination in its own right. Whether you’re looking to set sail on a Whitsunday adventure, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or soak up the tropical atmosphere, Airlie Beach has something for everyone.

Explore the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef

Gateway to the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is the starting point for exploring the Whitsunday Islands, home to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and world-class snorkelling and diving spots. Day trips, overnight sailing tours, and scenic flights offer unforgettable ways to experience these tropical islands.

Snorkel & Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Set off on an unforgettable reef adventure, with tours taking you to the Outer Reef and vibrant coral lagoons. Explore colourful coral gardens, swim alongside turtles, and spot tropical fish in one of the world’s most breathtaking marine ecosystems.

Sailing Capital of Australia

Airlie Beach is famous for its incredible sailing experiences, with luxury catamarans, tall ships, and bareboat charters available. Whether you choose a sunset cruise, a multi-day Whitsundays sailing trip, or a private yacht hire, there’s no better way to see the region than from the water.

 Things to do

Airlie Beach Lagoon – This stunning man-made lagoon in the heart of town offers crystal-clear swimming with ocean views, shaded picnic areas, and a family-friendly atmosphere—perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.

Cedar Creek Falls – Just a short drive, this hidden rainforest oasis is home to a beautiful waterfall and natural swimming pool, offering the perfect place to unwind in nature.

Conway National Park—For those who love the great outdoors, Conway National Park offers scenic hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views, lush rainforest walks, and the chance to spot wildlife like goannas, butterflies, and wallabies.

Lively Nightlife & Dining – A bustling bar and restaurant scene, with everything from waterfront seafood dining to lively pubs with live music. The Airlie Beach Markets, held every Saturday, are a great place to pick up local crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.

Best Time to Visit Airlie Beach

The best time to visit is from May to October, during the dry season when the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the conditions are perfect for sailing, snorkelling, and exploring the islands. You might even spot humpback whales from July to September as they migrate through the Whitsundays!

Map

Marinas

Coral Sea Marina

There are three marinas.

Things to do 

Whitehaven Beach

 

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What is the best time of year to visit Airlie Beach?
Airlie Beach is a year-round tropical destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is warm, skies are clear. .

Can you swim at the beach in Airlie Beach?
Yes! there are beautiful swimming spots, but during stinger season (November to May), marine stingers (jellyfish) can be present in the waters. It’s best to swim in designated areas with stinger nets or wear a stinger suit during this time. The Airlie Beach Lagoon is a fantastic option for a safe, stinger-free swim all year round!

How do I get to the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach?
Gateway to the Whitsundays, with daily ferries, sailing tours, and scenic flights departing to Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, and other stunning islands. Whether you want a day trip, a luxury sailing adventure, or a multi-day island escape, there are plenty of options to explore these world-famous islands.

What are the best things to do in Airlie Beach?
  Offering a mix of adventure and relaxation, with top activities including: Sailing and snorkeling tours to the Great Barrier Reef Exploring Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout Swimming at the Lagoon Visiting Cedar Creek Falls for a rainforest swim Enjoying waterfront dining, markets, and live music

Do I need a car in Airlie Beach?
Not necessarily! Airlie Beach is a walkable town, with most accommodation, restaurants, and attractions close to the main strip and lagoon. However, if you want to explore further, like Cedar Creek Falls, Conway National Park, or Hydeaway Bay, renting a car is a great way to discover more of the stunning Whitsundays region.

Plan Your Airlie Beach Adventure

Whether sailing through the Whitsundays, diving on the reef, or simply relaxing by the lagoon, Airlie Beach is the ultimate tropical getaway. With its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and endless opportunities for adventure, it’s no wonder visitors fall in love with this slice of paradise.

Ready to explore Airlie Beach? Start planning your Great Barrier Reef adventure today! 🌊🐠⛵

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