Airlie Beach
from Holidays & Honeymoons magazine, story by Jodie Mott, photography Tourism Queensland

 

A magnificent sunset over the Coral Sea seen from mainland Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Queensland, Australia. Photo courtesy Whitsunday Tourism.

The gateway to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands and heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Coast is the ideal romantic getaway for those who desire a few days or a few weeks away.

Surrounded by blue skies and blue water, the magic of the coast provides as much choice and diversity of experiences as you can imagine. There’s accommodation in romantic bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels or five star apartments. Choose your own pace and relax by the pool, or enjoy the thrill of a tandem skydive. Why not try ocean rafting at high speeds or, for the more timid, perhaps sailing peacefully on the Whitsunday’s famous turquoise waters.

A relatively undiscovered honeymoon destination, Airlie Beach acts as the ‘gateway’ to the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef, day and overnight sailing trips, and all the attractions available on and around the Whitsunday Coast.

Recent times have seen the emergence of top class romantic getaways in luxurious suites right on the doorstep of the Coral Sea, with well appointed Mediterranean style apartments with unbelievable views and a huge selection of the more traditional hotel/motel style accommodation. Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea with views to match, Airlie Beach is a refreshingly cosmopolitan town which has retained its village atmosphere. The main street provides a lively atmosphere with cafes, bars and restaurants spilling onto the sidewalks.
During the day the excitement revolves around the beaches and marina. This is the best time to experience the beaches or head north for excellent fishing at secluded bays.

The day trips are endless, and one of the hardest decisions you’ll have to make when you arrive here is which trip to take - the Great Barrier Reef, sailing, cruising, fishing, diving, four wheel driving, rainforest, ocean rafting, champagne sunset cruises, secluded beaches or whale watching - this really is the world’s greatest aquatic playground.

Transfers are available to the island resorts from Shute Harbour, just 12 kilometres from Airlie Beach. The islands are just 15-30 minutes away, so make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to take a day trip.

For those who prefer not to wander too far there’s still freedom and endless opportunities in Airlie Beach itself. Go bushwalking through one of the oldest surviving rainforests in the world, enjoy sports, parasailing, sea kayaking and tandem skydiving, swim in the nearby waterfall, or choose to simply relax and enjoy the majestic views.

In the evenings you have the choice of top restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs to keep you entertained all night long. From alfresco style dining to silver service, you will not be disappointed.

Australia’s number one resort golf course is located at nearby Laguna Quays. Just a 30 minute drive from Airlie Beach, and you’ll find yourself on one of the most amazing golf courses ever created. Its luscious green fairways wind thoughtfully through the native fauna to unobtrusively reveal the beauty of this area.

Getting here is easy! Major airlines fly regularly to the Whitsundays from both north and south. There are daily flights into and out of Proserpine and Hamilton Island airports, while direct access is available from the international ports of Cairns in Far North Queensland, Brisbane in South East Queensland, or Sydney and Melbourne in the southern states of New South Wales and Victoria respectively.
Whatever you desire, set your own pace in this amazing playground designed for lovers and lovers of water, adventure, sailing, excitement, or relaxation.

Remember, the most amazing holidays happen out of the blue.

STORY JODIE MOTT
PHOTOGRAPHY TOURISM QUEENSLAND

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Queensland
Whitsundays | Airlie Beach | Gold Coast | Sunshine Coast

Coastal New South Wales
Northern Rivers | Holiday Coast | Central Coast | South Coast

Victoria
Melbourne & Coastal Victoria | The Great Ocean Road
Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island, & Lakes Entrance

 

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