Visit This Stunning And Secluded Australian Beach For A Relaxing Vacation
Australia's coastline is a world-renowned haven for surfers, marine life nerds, and anyone looking for a magical seaside escape. With thousands of incredible beaches to choose from, you can imagine that it'd be hard to select just one as the country's most spectacular. Nonetheless, there is one beach that continues to stand out to travelers around the world — Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island.
This stunning beach consistently ranks as one of Australia's best and was even awarded Trip Advisor's "Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Beaches" in 2023. Located off the coast of northern Queensland in the Coral Sea, this remote island is the perfect relaxation getaway. Famous for its bright white silica sand and tropical rainforest, island visitors have the opportunity to camp, hike, sail, and more while surrounded by unbelievable beauty. A trip to Whitehaven is the ultimate beach vacation. Here's everything you need to know to make this dream holiday a reality.
How to get there and where to stay at Whitehaven Beach
One of the reasons Whitehaven Beach stays so spectacular and pristine is that it is protected as a part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. For this reason, you won't find any sign of modern development on the island — not a single hotel or tourist chain to be found. If you want to spend the night on the island, your only option is to camp. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to do so, with 11 different campgrounds to choose from.
Another reason the island stays quieter and more serene is because it is relatively difficult to access from any bustling city. Guests can only access Whitehaven's shores via boat, helicopter, or seaplane. Most often, tourists will take the ferry from Airlie Beach on the mainland or from the resort town on Hamilton Island. If would rather not camp, Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island are also two convenient locations that offer alternative lodging and access to Whitehaven Beach for day trips.
When to go and what to do at Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach typically boasts moderate weather throughout all four seasons with its average annual temperatures ranging from 78-86 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you'll want to plan to go at the right time of the year depending on what you're looking to do.
The island's peak tourist season is September and October. But, if you're looking for less hoopla, November or December will better suit you. The islands are quieter before younger Australians start their school holidays. Meanwhile, if you are a sailing fanatic and want to catch Airlie Beach Race Week or Hamilton Island Race Week, June through August is the time to be there. These are also the months to go if you would like to observe humpback whales.
Whatever time of year you decide to visit, there is always a handful of amazing activities and attractions to keep you busy. Perhaps the most photographed site is Hill Inlet, the Whitehaven lookout point with a 360-degree view of its white sand beaches. Once you've snagged some pics there and lounged on the sand, you can get active while hiking, swimming, or snorkeling. Whatever you do, we can guarantee that the scenery won't fall flat.