Visit The Whitsundays

At the heart of the Great Barrier Reef the 74 paradise islands of The Whitsundays chain float like jewels in the Coral Sea. Charter a yacht and discover palm-fringed islands, powder-white beaches, isolated cays and luxurious 5-star resorts. Only eight of the islands are home to tourist resorts, the rest are untouched oases.

Of the popular destinations, Hamilton Island and Hayman Island – due to re-open in 2019 – is home to some of the finest resorts in the world, while lesser-known gems such as Long Island offer equally stunning accommodation options. For pristine powder-white sands, iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet should also not be missed. The Whitsunday islands are easily accessible from the mainland coast at vibrant Airlie Beach.

Queensland Discovery

14-day tailor-made holiday from £5,325 pp incl. flights

This is a showcase for the best of Queensland. After taking in the city sights of Brisbane and the glorious hinterland, head out to the Whitsundays for a slice of island indulgence.

Sydney, the Whitsundays and Brisbane

16-day tailor-made holiday from £3,590 pp incl. flights

Between the sights of Sydney and Brisbane, hop out to the Whitsundays to enjoy some island relaxation alongside hikes, cruises, kayak paddles and snorkelling trips.

Top places to stay in The Whitsundays

Qualia, Great Barrier Reef

Accommodation

Situated on the northern tip of Hamilton Island in Queensland’s idyllic Whitsundays, qualia is one of Australia’s finest luxury resorts. You don’t have to take our word for it – in 2012 it was voted the Best Resort in the World in the Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Choice Awards.

InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, Whitsundays

Contemporary resort

Enjoy five-star island luxury within touching distance of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. It's all paired with the best in gourmet dining, relaxing spa treatments and a full spread of immersive adventures.

Beach Club, Hamilton Island

Accommodation

The Beach Club on Hamilton Island is the perfect couples’ retreat for those looking for a getaway in the idyllic Whitsundays.

Palm Bungalows, Hamilton Island

Accommodation

Palm Bungalows, located on Hamilton Island in the heart of Australia's beautiful Whitsundays, dispels the myth that staying on the Great Barrier Reef has to be a no-holds-barred, budget buster.

The Whitsundays articles

Australia’s top 10 iconic landscapes

Australia is one of the most varied landscapes on earth. It's got a range of stunning, idiosyncratic landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Australian Alps to wildlife-rich coral reefs, crystal-clear lakes, bio-diverse tropical rainforests, and dust-filled deserts.