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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: AUD
- Languages: English, with many tourists speaking German, Mandarin, French, and Japanese
- Climate: Tropical
- Timezone: Australia/Brisbane
- Population: Approximately 1,200 residents on Hamilton Island; The Whitsundays region overall has around 35,000 residents.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October to avoid tropical rains and stingers.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and New Zealand generally require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa to enter Australia, which can be applied for online before travel. Some countries have visa-free access for short stays. Visa on arrival is not available for most tourists. Passport validity of at least six months is recommended.
About The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island
The Whitsundays and Hamilton Island are a stunning tropical paradise located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. This region is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs that form part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The Whitsundays consist of 74 islands, with Hamilton Island being one of the most developed and accessible for tourists. Visitors are drawn to the area for its natural beauty, luxury resorts, and abundant marine life. Sailing, snorkeling, and diving are popular ways to explore the coral reefs and secluded beaches, including the famous Whitehaven Beach, known for its pure silica sand. Hamilton Island offers a blend of relaxation and adventure with upscale accommodations, golf courses, and lively dining options. The combination of breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and warm tropical climate makes The Whitsundays and Hamilton Island a top destination for honeymooners, families, and nature lovers alike.
Top Attractions
1. Whitehaven Beach – Famous for its dazzling white silica sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and photography. 2. Heart Reef – A naturally formed coral reef shaped like a heart, best viewed by scenic flight. 3. Hamilton Island Wildlife Park – Home to native Australian animals such as koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles. 4. Airlie Beach Lagoon – A man-made swimming lagoon offering a safe and scenic spot for families. 5. Great Barrier Reef – The world’s largest coral reef system, ideal for snorkeling and diving excursions.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy sailing around the islands, snorkeling and diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs, and hiking scenic trails with panoramic views. Fishing charters, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular water activities. On Hamilton Island, guests can play golf, visit wildlife parks, or indulge in spa treatments. Scenic helicopter and seaplane tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the reef and islands. Cultural experiences include learning about Indigenous heritage and local marine conservation efforts.
The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Queensland
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy sailing around the islands, snorkeling and diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs, and hiking scenic trails with panoramic views. Fishing charters, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular water activities. On Hamilton Island, guests can play golf, visit wildlife parks, or indulge in spa treatments. Scenic helicopter and seaplane tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the reef and islands. Cultural experiences include learning about Indigenous heritage and local marine conservation efforts.
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October to avoid tropical rains and stingers. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent. Respect local wildlife and coral reefs by not touching or disturbing them. Carry sufficient cash or cards, but note some remote areas may have limited ATM access. Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak seasons. Stay hydrated and follow safety advice for swimming and water activities.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $200
18 Available Tour Excursions in The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island
Europa is an 8.5m Protector RHIB specially crafted by Rayglass in New Zealand. Built with all the features you could hope to have for a vessel of her size, we’re sure you’ll explore the Whitsundays in complete luxury. Europa accommodates for a 8 passengers, perfect for intimate groups looking for a VIP experience. This opulent vessel is equipped with a fresh water shower on the back deck and a toilet in the middle cabin. She has teak decking through-out the boat, fitted with lounge style seating to ensure maximum comfort during your trip. For the smaller groups, the sun lounge on the back deck can be removed to maximise space. Europa is decked out with an entertainment sound system and an impressive iPad Media Centre that can be connected via Bluetooth
Price: $692.88
Duration: 1 hours
Move away from the tourist hot spots and discover something spectacular in the Whitsundays with our customisable experiences. Explore the unique world beneath the waves and snorkel some of the most abundant coral reefs, stop-over at the many beaches and bays, enjoy the various island trails or soak up the sun while lazing on the soft white sands - the possibilities are endless. Check out our website for inspiration to create your ideal private charter or chat to our team today!
Price: $2,549.23
Duration: 6-8 hours
Fast and Reliable Service - 13 Seater Van or 20 Seater Coaster. Drop off at the door of your resort /B&B - Fully Air-conditioning
Price: $16.69
Duration: 0-1 hours
All of our guests experience a personalised chauffeured experience that makes them feel like VIPs. Our long-time local drivers enjoy answering any questions the passengers have about the Whitsundays, sharing commentary along the way and providing recommendations to ensure you get the most out of your holiday. Skip the lines, don't wait for other passengers and make special requests that make your holiday a lasting experience. Before departing the transfer, you will be given a 10% discount voucher that you can use at over 32 local businesses during your stay in the Whitsundays. These include some of the best restaurants and bars in town!
Price: $120.15
Duration: 0 hours
When you live aboard our yacht, your days adventure begins when you wake and continues unabated till well after dark. John & Lynne like to say that “their guests can go snorkelling over colourful corals accompanied by hundreds of friendly fish before breakfast and each day just gets better from there…” All daily activities are personally guided which ensures your in depth appreciation of the wonders of nature both above and below the water. Lynne has been selected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) to be a “Master Reef Guide” (the highest honour that GBRMPA can bestow). She is a “Citizen Scientist” specialising in the Reef World which has been her passion for more than 50 years. John & Lynne have a unique permit issued by GBRMPA granting them access to most of the Marine Park and they have spent a lifetime discovering its secrets that they willingly share with their guests. Potential guests should read the TripAdvisor reviews for Whitsunday Luxury Sailing
Price: $9,345.17
Duration: 168 hours
Move away from the tourist hot spots and discover something spectacular in the Whitsundays with our customisable experiences. Explore the unique world beneath the waves and snorkel some of the most abundant coral reefs, stop-over at the many beaches and bays, enjoy the various island trails or soak up the sun while lazing on the soft white sands - the possibilities are endless. Check out our website for inspiration to create your ideal private charter or chat to our team today!
Price: $2,571.26
Duration: 1-11 hours
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest & most diverse eco system in the world. It is the world’s largest Marine Reserve, about half the size of Texas. The Reef is visible from outer space appearing as a thin white line along the Queensland coast. Within the Reserve are more than 10% of the world's species of marine fish, over four thousand species of hard & soft corals and six of the world’s seven species of turtles. Giant Humpback Whales migrate to its warm crystal clear waterways every year to give birth to their babies John & Lynne Boyce are your key to discovering Australia’s most treasured water wonderland. In recognition of Lynne's expertise The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has granted her the title : Master Reef Guide She has published “Gourmet Sailing..Delicious Dining on the Great Barrier Reef”, a cook book detailing the meals they serve. The duo have been exploring the Reserve for more than 30 years & they look forward to sharing their knowledge and experience
Price: $3,337.56
Duration: 168 hours
Move away from the tourist hot spots and discover something spectacular in the Whitsundays with our customisable experiences. Explore the unique world beneath the waves and snorkel some of the most abundant coral reefs, stop-over at the many beaches and bays, enjoy the various island trails or soak up the sun while lazing on the soft white sands - the possibilities are endless. Check out our website for inspiration to create your ideal private charter or chat to our team today!
Price: $3,646.28
Duration: 2-8 hours
Whitsunday Crocodile Safari is a safe, all-weather nature excursion which takes guests to see crocodiles in the wild in the Whitsundays. The safari enables you to explore the estuaries and wetlands of the Whitsundays and to discover the vegetation and wildlife in these unique habitats. Your tour begins with a courtesy bus transfer from Airlie Beach to Proserpine. You will experience a calm water cruise on Proserpine River, spotting estuarine crocodiles in natural habitat, and then explore Goorganga Plains wetlands on a tractor-drawn wagon train. Your day tour includes a delicious barbecue lunch and traditional billy tea and damper, so have your camera and your appetites ready!
Price: $100.13
Duration: 6 hours
Experience the Great Barrier Reef for two days and one night. By day, enjoy all the activities on offer at Reefworld, a pontoon moored on one of the most spectacular areas of the Great Barrier Reef, including snorkeling, semi-sub rides and viewing parts of the world’s largest coral-reef system in an underwater chamber. Later, spend the night at Reefsleep—on the upper deck of the pontoon—to sleep under the stars, 40 nautical miles (74 km) from shore. Fall asleep under twinkling stars in a custom designed queen-size 'Reefbed'. Round-trip transport and most meals are included.
Price: $463.92
Duration: 48 hours
Sit back and enjoy the sea air on-board the largest sailing catamaran in The Whitsundays. With capped capacity numbers, you can stretch out and relax as Camira sails through the Whitsunday Islands and takes you to the region’s most iconic locations. Hike to the Hill Inlet Lookout, leave footprints in the white silica sand, snorkel the fringing reef and enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch with all-inclusive drinks • Sail through the Whitsunday Islands • Morning and afternoon tea • Delicious BBQ lunch, soft drinks and water • Beer, wine and cider from 10am • Snorkeling equipment and stinger suits • Guided walk to Hill Inlet and lookout (tidal dependent) Return coach transfers available from most Airlie Beach accommodation, Adults $13.00 & children $7.00.
Price: $166.21
Duration: 10 hours
Come on board with Explore Group and experience a full-day Great Barrier Reef snorkeling adventure taking you to selected moorings around Bait Reef - the closest of the outer reef locations. We're a boutique tour operator which means we operate by taking smaller groups to ensure a more personalized and quality experience. This full day tour is perfect for those wanting a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef. This experience visits two locations within Bait Reef and a minimum of 3.5 hours is spent on location. The reef is accessed by our premium custom designed dive / snorkel vessel, which has three levels of air conditioned luxury, lounge style seating, a partially shaded deck and full beam swim platform, which makes entering and exiting the water a comfortable and easy experience. We provide everything you need to have a comfortable and amazing day at the Great Barrier Reef!
Price: $199.59
Duration: 8 hours
Moored offshore at Hardy Reef, 40 nautical miles from Airlie Beach, Reefworld is the setting for your spectacular overnight Reefsuite experience. Begin your journey with a cruise through the Whitsunday Islands to Hardy Reef onboard our high-speed vessel, arriving at the reef around 11am. After lunch, guests can snorkel, dive, swim or take a scenic helicopter flight to see famous Heart Reef (additional cost). Day visitors depart mid-afternoon and then overnight guests have Hardy Reef and Reefworld all to themselves. Watch a stunning sunset with a drink in hand before enjoying a starlit long-table dinner on the pontoon’s upper deck. After dinner, Reefsuite guests can retreat to the privacy of their undersea accommodation. Sit back, relax and watch as the reef comes to life through the floor to ceiling windows. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and an exclusive morning on the reef before heading home in the afternoon with memories that will stay with you forever.
Price: $760.96
Duration: 48 hours
Beyond the Whitsundays, your destination is Reefworld, our multilevel reef facility permanently moored 39 nautical miles from shore at spectacular Hardy Reef. Snorkel, swim, dive and explore – an undersea encounter with this amazing ecosystem is unforgettable. Or if you’d rather stay dry, experience the reef from our underwater observatory or take a ride in a semi-submarine. After a sumptuous buffet lunch, you’ll have more time to explore before you head back to shore with lifelong memories of this epic Australian icon. Your day includes: - Scenic return cruise through the Whitsundays to the outer reef - 4 hours at Hardy Reef - Snorkelling with all gear provided, including wetsuits and stinger suits - Access to underwater observatory - Semi-submarine guided tour - Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea - Optional activities (own expense): guided snorkelling safaris and scuba diving
Price: $159.70
Duration: 10 hours
Experienced Operator providing the most comprehensive and all inclusive air tour in the Whitsundays, with guaranteed window seats for every passenger. Fly over the stunning Whitehaven Beach, Heart Reef, and Hill Inlet and learn interesting facts about the region thanks to your pilot's commentary. Take advantage of guaranteed window seats to snap incredible photos.
Price: $199.59
Duration: 2 hours
Fast door to door shuttle service, Friendly & Helpful Team. Drivers with a lot of local knowledge. Comfortable Air conditioned buses.
Price: $32.04
Duration: 1 hours
Private charter for up to 28 guests enjoying a day sailing on a LUXURY Yacht visiting the most popular locations in the Whitsundays. The crew include a Master Reef Guide who will explain the intricacies' of the Great Barrier Reef which is the largest and most diverse eco system in the world containing more than 10% of the world’s species of marine fish, over four thousand species of hard & soft corals and six of the world’s seven species of turtles. View Giant Humpback Whales that migrate to its warm crystal clear waterways during winter. Friendly owners John and Lynne designed and built their yacht incorporating all the features necessary for safety and comfort at sea. Their dream boat “Sydney Sundancer” is now Australia’s most awarded charter yacht. John & Lynne have been exploring the Marine Reserve for more than 30 years look forward to sharing their knowledge and experience. They are your key to discovering the water wonderland that is Australia’s most treasured natural icon.
Price: $4,005.07
Duration: 24 hours
-7 Seat private KIA from Proserpine Airport (PPP) to Shute Harbour -No extra waiting time for other travellers
Price: $133.50
Duration: 1 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
The cuisine in The Whitsundays and Hamilton Island features fresh seafood such as barramundi, prawns, and coral trout. Tropical fruits and locally grown produce are common ingredients. Signature dishes include Moreton Bay bugs and mud crab. Dining ranges from casual beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants like the renowned Bommie Restaurant on Hamilton Island, which offers modern Australian cuisine with a focus on local seafood. Visitors should try tropical cocktails and enjoy alfresco dining with ocean views.
Getting Around
Hamilton Island is accessible by direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney, and Cairns, or by ferry from Airlie Beach. Airlie Beach serves as the main gateway to The Whitsundays by road and air. On Hamilton Island, golf buggies are the primary mode of transport for visitors, with limited car use. Boat transfers and tours are common for island hopping. Renting a car on the mainland is recommended for exploring Airlie Beach and surrounding areas. Costs for local transport vary, with golf buggy rentals on Hamilton Island typically charged by the hour or day.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October to avoid tropical rains and stingers. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent. Respect local wildlife and coral reefs by not touching or disturbing them. Carry sufficient cash or cards, but note some remote areas may have limited ATM access. Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak seasons. Stay hydrated and follow safety advice for swimming and water activities.
Culture & Customs
The local culture is laid-back and friendly, reflecting typical Australian beach lifestyle. Respect for the natural environment and Indigenous heritage is important. Social customs include casual dress and polite greetings. Significant events include the Whitsunday Festival celebrating local arts and culture. Visitors should avoid touching or removing marine life and follow guidelines for reef protection. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
