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Whitsundays wildlife and natural wonders

A chain of 74 islands, four of which boast renowned luxury resorts, the Whitsunday Islands are found in the middle of the incomparable Great Barrier Reef just off the coast of Queensland. Surrounded by the natural wonders of this marine paradise, you couldn’t be better placed to explore this natural marvel.

The waves of its crystal-clear blue waters wash onto silver beaches beneath the warm sun. It comes as no surprise that these parts are celebrated as some of the finest beach spots in the country. Airlie Beach, in particular, is a great starting point, a coastal town from where you can set off on your adventures, exploring the hidden secrets of the region and participate in a variety of Great Barrier Reef experiences. Whitehaven Beach beckons with it’s stunning white sands and turquoise waters. Find great snorkelling spots or enjoy scuba diving sessions amongst the coral, interacting with curious fish and other marine creatures. Or simply relax on a stylish cruise, cocktail in hand and camera at the ready.

The Whitsundays are renowned across the world as a yachting destination, also operating as a hub for kayaking, sailing and powerboating. But it’s not all about the ocean. There are numerous rivers, creeks and streams that run through brilliant trails and walking routes. Because of its high number of uninhabited national parks, there is always the chance to go on nature tours and journeys and spot wildlife such as enormous saltwater crocodiles.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Whitsundays specialists

Cruise the Great Barrier Reef

Spend a day exploring the magnificent Great Barrier Reef on a scenic cruise which gives you time to discover the colourful underwater world of magnificent corals, fish and marine life.

Sail the length of Whitehaven Beach

Head out for a day discovering the wonders of Whitehaven Beach, whose crystal clear waters and pristine white sand stretch along Whitsunday Island, enjoy a leisurely cruise and guided walk.

Cast a line on a private deep-sea fishing trip

Take a private fishing trip on board a sports fisher. Bait and fishing tackle will be provided and you’ll be able to enjoy a mixture of trolling and bottom fishing, or all bottom fishing depending on your interests.

A word from one of our experts

Set sail on an overnight trip through the Whitsundays and you definitely won’t be disappointed. You’ll spend the daytime exploring the largest living thing on Earth, The Great Barrier Reef, snorkelling, diving or swimming amongst countless colourful fish, turtles, starfish and if you’re lucky like me you might get to swim with a reef shark! Then spend the most magical evening stargazing from your deck in the middle of the Coral Sea before sailing back to shore the next day. That’s a night I’ll never forget.

Ellie Khoury Senior Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Whitsundays

There are many incredible places to stay in Whitsundays. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip Inspiration

Get inspired with our Whitsundays example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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Discover more of Australia

The best time to visit the Whitsundays is generally during the months of September and October. This period offers pleasant weather, abundant marine life, excellent sailing conditions and Great Barrier Reef Experiences. It’s also before the peak season crowds, making it a great time for a quieter experience. The winter months of June to August are great for whale watching.

Marine life

September–October

Whale watching

June–August

Fewer crowds

April–May

When Is the Best Time to Visit Australia?

Australia travel guides

Plan your trip to Whitsundays

Whatever you want from your adventure in Whitsundays, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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