Things to do in Airlie Beach
It’s a secret spot favoured by locals, so if you’re after a place to cool down without the crowds — we have found the ultimate spot.
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In the heart of the glorious Whitsundays, and a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach is a no-brainer when it comes to a sun-soaked, picture-perfect tropical holiday.
A coastal town of palm-fringed beaches, outdoor activities and eternal summer, Airlie Beach is also on the doorstep of lush tropical rainforest — Conway National Park — and the wide expanse of the Coral Sea.
DISCOVER THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN AIRLIE BEACH
That makes it the perfect base from which to explore some of Queensland’s greatest wonders, and it caters to everyone’s budget, offering glamorous luxury accommodation through to more laidback, budget-friendly stays.
Here are some of the top things to do during your essential visit to Airlie Beach.
Best helicopter tour at Airlie Beach
Whitehaven Beach Helicopter Tour - 2 Hours
Explore the Whitsundays by air with this incredible helicopter tour over the iconic region, with a focus on the jewel in its crown, Whitehaven Beach.
There are plenty of things to look out for from above during the 30 minutes of flying time, including the Hill Inlet, Daydream Island, Hamilton Island and Hayman Island. You might even get so lucky as to see whales and turtles frolicking in the vast blue water.
The flight takes you directly to Whitehaven Beach, considered to be one of the most spectacular beaches in Australia.
You’ll get a solid hour-and-a-half to explore the beach and enjoy its clear, sparkling water and 7km-stretch of pure white sand.
Best hidden gem at Airlie Beach
Cedar Creek Waterfalls and Hydeaway Bay Tour
Discover one of the hidden gems of the Airlie Beach region with this full-day tour to majestic Cedar Creek Falls.
Just half an hour’s drive from Airlie Beach, in the lush Conway National Park, the beautiful and tranquil Cedar Creek Falls is a local secret: a perfect spot for a cooling dip, hidden behind rocks and trees.
On this tour, you’ll be picked up from your Airlie Beach accommodation and driven out to Cedar Creek Falls, where you can enjoy the waterhole and learn about the area.
The next stop on the itinerary is the Whitsunday Gold Coffee plantation, where you can enjoy a cuppa at one of the biggest coffee plantations in Australia, before a visit to Hydeaway Bay and Dingo Beach to wrap up the full-day trip.
Best adventure tour of Airlie Beach
Conway National Park Segway Tour
The sensational Conway National Park, a massive expanse of lowland tropical forest with secluded beaches and specular lookouts, is a must for any visit to Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.
And this Segway tour is perhaps the most fun and exciting way to discover it.
For three and a half hours, and led by an experienced guide, you’ll be able to see the highlights of the national park, including the local wildlife, fauna and stunning scenery, on a Segway.
If you’ve never tackled a Segway before, never fear: you’ll get full training before you set off along the Whitsundays Great Walk on the tour, with stops for refreshments and snacks.
Best sailing trip at Airlie Beach
Camira Sailing Adventure to Whitehaven Beach - 1 Day
Spend a full day out on the sparkling blue waters and take in the breathtaking Whitsundays with this action-packed sailing trip.
You’ll leave the Port of Airlie bright and early, setting sail on the sleek and spacious The Camira for an exhilerating ride on the open ocean to Whitsunday Island.
You’ll be able to marvel at the world-class scenery, take a cooling dip in the water, snorkel and spot the local marine life, and soak up the sunshine.
The day includes morning and afternoon tea as well as a cooked-to-order barbeque lunch that includes local seafood, and unlimited drinks, served on the beach.
You’ll also have plenty of time to explore and enjoy tranquil Whitehaven Beach before setting off again for the mainland.
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