As we all know, nothing beats the feeling of sand between the toes and a warm ocean breeze on your skin. Beach-life is what the Whitsundays is all about and if you are visiting for the first time, or you a veteran Whitsundays visitor searching for something new and different, then here is out top picks of the best beaches to visit and why…
Hydeaway Bay
This beach is as the name suggests, a hidden slice of paradise away from the hustle and bustle of the world. Whether you are anchored in the bay, driving from Airlie beach or arriving via helicopter (yes please!), you can enjoy a spot of lunch at the popular Montes Reef Resort and then stroll along the beach and around the corner to the Cape Gloucester Eco Resort for a coffee. There is little or no coral directly off the beach, so it makes the perfect place for a swim at high tide. There is some good fishing off the rocks to the right of the resort at the right tide and if you are staying at the resort, they have a boat ramp which can be used to launch and explore.
Whitehaven Beach
The Whitsunday icon that is Whitehaven beach is an absolute must see for any visitor. The sand is 98% pure white silica, which is what makes the sand gleaming white, cool beneath the feet and soft to touch. Fly in via helicopter or even experience a water-landing with a seaplane or choose one of the day trips from Coral Sea Marina and hop on board. Dip your feet in and swim in the azure waters – get the cameras ready, it will definitely be selfie time! If you are lucky enough to be taking your own boat there, arrive late afternoon as the day visitors depart and enjoy the sunset or the sunrise with the beach almost all to yourself!
Chance Bay
Often overlooked but never disappointing, the beach at Chance Bay is just stunning at any time of the day. If you’re boating it provides the perfect anchorage for overnight in the northerlies and the waters are calm and tranquil. Chance Bay provides access to the Solway Circuit walking track which will take you up and over the headland (with stunning island views) over to the south end of Whitehaven. If this sounds too energetic, then just relax on a blanket at sunset and enjoy the afternoon birdsong as the yacht bobs about on the horizon.
Betty’s Beach
Anchor at Tongue Bay and talk the rainforest walk up to the Hill Inlet lookout. Marvel at the swirling sands which change with the tide. Walk down to Betty’s Beach at the other side of the headland and enjoy an afternoon swimming in the warm azure waters. You are guaranteed to see schools of stingrays in the shallows and sea eagles flying high, this is one of the Whitsundays little gems. It is also a little more private and hidden from Whitehaven Beach, so not many people know to walk that way!
Dingo Beach
A short drive from Airlie Beach is the township of Dingo Beach, just next door to Hydeaway Bay. With a swimming enclosure for the summer months, a vast stretch of golden sand, some great fishing spots and a shoreline abundant with shaded trees this is a great way to spend an afternoon and explore the Whitsunday mainland. There is a quaint little pub just back from the beach, which serves great value meals and has live music at the weekends. Sold as one of the only pubs in Queensland where you sit with the sand in your toes whilst enjoying a cold drink.
Enjoy the beach!
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