Here is a small paradise on earth for sailors seeking beautiful beaches and diving spots. The Whitsundays Archipelago is the perfect retreat to fully experience the tropical atmosphere of Queensland during your stay in Australia.

History

Originally, the Whitsunday Islands were formed by volcanic activity. Then, after the last Ice Age, the sea submerged the land, leaving only coastal peaks visible above the surface in the form of islands.

Human history in the archipelago began with the Ngaro Aboriginal people, one of Australia's oldest civilisations. They settled all along the chain of islands, as well as on the mainland coast. They lived primarily by hunting, fishing and gathering from the sea.

James Cook discovered the Cumberland Islands in 1770. It is said that he travelled through the passage between the northern islands on Whit Sunday, which led him to name the group Whitsundays. By the mid-1800s, pioneers from the mainland gradually settled in the archipelago and acquired grazing leases.

Tourism in the Whitsunday Islands began in the 1920s. Cruise ships started circulating in the area. To welcome pleasure seekers, residents erected galvanised iron huts. The first tourists of that era, mostly based in Proserpine, took the weekly mail boat to visit the archipelago. Transport evolved in the 1960s, following the opening of the road between Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour.

Discovering the Whitsundays Archipelago

The Whitsunday Islands welcome you to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the eighth wonder of the world.

At sea or on land, sensations guaranteed

Plunge into crystalline waters, enjoy snorkelling and marvel at the extraordinary underwater beauty. If you prefer to stay dry, join a boat excursion or better still, sign up for a seaplane flight to enjoy a sensational panorama of the archipelago. Many thrilling activities also await you on land. Hiking enthusiasts will find their paradise along the trails that crisscross the islands. The Ngaro Sea Trail is particularly worth mentioning.

The world's most beautiful beaches

Of course, in the Whitsundays Archipelago, you have access to numerous beaches. If you are travelling with family, head to Hamilton Island. However, if you are travelling solo or with a group of friends seeking adventure, set course for Hook Island.

All Whitsundays beaches offer a dreamlike setting. Some have even been awarded for their beauty. With its 7 km stretch of silica sand, Whitehaven Beach ranks among the world's most beautiful beaches according to globe-trotters. Do not miss Heart Reef either, whose shape resembles a heart. The best way to admire this exceptional coral formation is to travel by seaplane. Then, once back on dry land, take a swim in the waters of Hardy Reef.

Practical Information

When to visit?

The Whitsundays Archipelago enjoys a mild climate year-round and can therefore be visited in any season. The period between May and September is particularly recommended. In July and August, water temperature can be quite cool. Therefore, wait until September if you want to enjoy water activities. It is still whale season and you will not risk encountering jellyfish while swimming. Moreover, since you are outside school holidays, prices are more affordable.

Between November and May, swimming is strongly discouraged due to jellyfish. However, provided you are equipped with a full-body wetsuit (available for rent), you can still enjoy a snorkelling or diving session.

You can rent a sailboat or boat to explore the Whitsundays Archipelago. Water taxis and cruises also operate in the area. If your budget allows, sign up for a seaplane excursion to enjoy an exceptional bird's-eye view of the islands.

By sea

The coastal town of Airlie Beach is the main gateway to the Whitsundays Archipelago. You can board the ferry to reach the islands. Departures run hourly from 7am. The Shute Harbour ferry offers an alternative, but operates only three trips per day. Water taxis also circulate, allowing you to reach the different islands from the mainland.

By air

Hamilton Island has an airport. It welcomes daily direct flights from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

What to do in the Whitsundays Archipelago?

• Stroll along Whitehaven Beach
• Learn to sail around Hook Island
• Set off on a bush hike
• Admire the Heart Reef coral formation from the air
• Explore the diving spots of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, and more.