Top Airlie Beach How to Get Around

Take off on a flight over the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, and see sights including Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, and Hill Inlet. Catch a bird’s-eye view of many of the Whitsunday Islands and fly over Whitehaven Beach and picturesque Hill Inlet before heading toward the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll see one of the most photographed reef locations, Heart Reef. The comfortable fixed wing aircraft offers big window viewing, plus enjoy pilot commentary.

Hop aboard a catamaran to cruise the coast around Airlie Beach and Pioneer Bay at sunset—when it’s at its most atmospheric and romantic. Instead of trying to find a viewing spot on land, enjoy a vantage point only achievable by boat, right out on the water. Along the way, enjoy an included glass of sparkling wine, soak up the scenery, and snap photos of the beautiful Whitsunday coastline.

Cruising out among the Whitsunday Islands is a fun and relaxing way to watch the sunset from Airlie Beach. However, costs can build up when you start ordering drinks, and can also lead to disappointment if your drink of choice is unavailable. On a BYO cruise, you choose what drinks you want to enjoy while admiring the scenery, snacking on provided canapés, and listening to tunes as you go.

Sail through the Whitsundays aboard a luxury adults-only sunset tour from Airlie Beach. Enjoy personalized service with a smaller group and ample space to relax as you sail. Your crew will share insights into the region's history and wildlife, while you indulge in drinks from the onboard bar. Capture sunset views and the twinkling lights of Airlie Beach before returning to port.

Airlie Beach's Only Emissions Free Whisper Quiet Electric Boat. Experience Mother Nature at her finest on our turtle spotting bay cruise. Embark on an extraordinary and environmentally responsible journey by stepping aboard Airlie Beach's most unique tour. With a maximum capacity of just 8 passengers, our charming vessel, "Tallulah" stands out as the only electric boat in the Whitsundays. Experience the magic of spotting turtles in eco-friendly luxury, gliding through calm waters with our whisper-quiet, fume-free electric boat. Be on the lookout for the endangered loggerhead and green sea turtles. Immerse yourself in a serene journey as you tour through Turtle Bay, around Pigeon Island and the local foreshore, and then back past the million-dollar yachts in the Coral Sea Marina. Join us for an intimate and serene adventure where sustainability meets luxury, creating memories that are as gentle on the environment as they are unforgettable. Can you beat our ‘turtle count’ record?

Discover the Whitsunday Islands on a sailing day trip from Airlie Beach. Relax and admire the views from the decks of the spacious catamaran, Camira. Swim in the turquoise water, hike to the Hill Inlet Lookout, and spend time on beautiful Whitehaven Beach. Lunch, snacks, and refreshments are included throughout the day, and both snorkeling gear and stinger suits (protection against jellyfish) are available to use.

Enjoy a full-day tour of the stunning Whitsunday Islands, traveling on a sturdy motorized raft to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Beach. Choose from two tours that offer either more snorkeling or more beach time. Gain exclusive access to secluded spots where you can snorkel around pristine coral reefs, and take a walk with your guide in the national park to a lookout point with spectacular views.

Explore the powdery white sand and turquoise waters of the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands on this full-day speed boat cruise around the islands. You’ll have plenty of time on the famous Whitehaven Beach for a buffet lunch picnic, swimming, and snorkeling, with a lesson if necessary, and also stop at Hill Inlet. The crew will also share stories and facts about marine life, aboriginal culture, and local history along the way.

Hop on a Jet Ski tour of the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach for an unforgettable experience of this tropical paradise. The multiple tour options suit beginner and experienced riders, with tandem riding possible on some tours. Zip past picturesque coves and beaches as you learn about the region from your guide and admire the gorgeous views. Receive personalized attention on small-group tours.

Explore more of the Whitsundays’ Conway National Park on a fun small-group Segway tour. Learn to operate the vehicle: full instruction and practice time is provided so no experience is necessary. Then follow your guide on a scenic tour through the rainforest, going further than you would on foot. Glide along serene rainforest trails, following part of the Whitsunday Great Walk, and hop off to enjoy a filling morning tea.

Please note: Weight Limits Apply* Let us take you to one of Australia’s best and world recognised beaches. Take in the view of all 74 Whitsunday Islands as we make our way passed Hamilton Island, Hazelwood Island and more, before show casing the second most photographed destination in Australia ‘Hill inlet’. *This tour has a maximum passenger weight limit of 130kg/286lb per seat, and total combined passenger weight of 250kg/551lb.

Quickly see the highlights of Airlie Beach with this Airlie Hopper sightseeing tour: Hop on a minibus and relax while your guide takes care of planning and logistics. Make the rounds of the Queensland coastal resort town, seeing Airlie Beach Lagoon, Cedar Creek Falls, and the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation. Then, stop for lunch at a retro 1950s diner (own expense).

Seeing the Great Barrier Reef usually means snorkeling or diving, which rules it out for anyone who'd rather stay dry. Ride a glass-bottom boat over the reefs near Airlie Beach instead, watching the coral, reef fish, and turtles through the hull. Commentary covers the marine ecosystem as you go.

Explore Airlie Beach on a private tour by tuk-tuk for a fun twist on a traditional sightseeing tour. Just sit back and admire the city as a guide introduces you to the best locales. Select from various tour durations and themes, including a food tour or sunset ride, to suit your schedule and budget.

Tour Airlie Beach on an engaging half-day adventure with a friendly guide who takes you through Shute Harbour, Airlie, Cannonvale, and Woodwark, sharing fascinating insights about the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned bus, accommodating up to 10 guests, while soaking in stunning scenic views at each stop. You'll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guide, making this tour an enriching experience for all.

Enjoy a full day to unwind at one of the most beautiful beaches in the Whitsunday Islands: postcard–perfect Whitehaven Beach. A private boat takes away the stress of ferry timetables—keeping the trip relaxed and unrushed. Have ample free time to swim far from the crowds, enjoy beach activities, walk to Whitehaven Beach Lookout, and take a guided hike to Hill Inlet for amazing views. Protective stinger suits are provided to keep you safe, and you can refuel with the included lunch and snacks.

Watch the dreamy sunset over the Whitsunday islands on this evening cruise, sailing on-board a traditional gaff-rigged schooner. Sip a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and tuck into light snacks as you glide around Pioneer Bay, and experience the beauty of Airlie Beach at twilight as you drift back to shore.

The Clarke Ranges rise steeply behind the coast, and at their peak sits Eungella National Park, home to the longest continuous stretch of subtropical rainforest in Australia and one of the country's most reliable spots to see wild platypus. This eco-certified small-group day tour departs Airlie Beach at 10am and climbs through the Pioneer Valley, stopping for a famous Pinnacle Pie at the Pinnacle Family Hotel before continuing on to Broken River, where completely wild platypus move through the creek. Your guide holds EcoGuide Certification from Ecotourism Australia, positioning the group at the viewing platform and talking you through what you're seeing. Platypus sightings here are common. On the way home, you'll stop at the Eungella Sky Window for cheese and wine, then head back through the Pioneer Valley and along the coast, returning to Airlie Beach around 6pm. Airlie Adventure Tours holds the 2026 Best of Queensland Experiences Gold Award.

Discover the Whitsundays through a unique eco-tour that connects you with marine conservation efforts and local wildlife. Engage in hands-on activities that support initiatives like sea turtle rescue and recycling, all while exploring the pristine beauty of the region. This experience not only educates but also empowers you to leave a positive impact on the environment. Join in the mission to keep the seas clean and learn about the vital work of Eco Barge Clean Seas. - Participate in hands-on activities supporting marine conservation - Learn about recycling initiatives transforming plastic waste into new products - Visit a sea turtle rescue center and engage with marine life - Every tour directly supports local conservation efforts and community initiatives

Discover the hidden gems of the Whitsundays on this eco-certified, small-group tour designed for cruise ship guests. Enjoy scenic drives through Bowen's stunning coastal landscapes and tropical beaches. Highlights include visits to Horseshoe Bay, Greys Bay, Flagstaff Hill Lookout, and the famous Big Mango, all while learning about local history and culture from an expert guide. Relax in comfortable air-conditioned transport, savor fish and chips by the seaside, and experience the laid-back charm of Queensland's coast in just 5 hours, with guaranteed return before your ship departs. - Small-group, eco-certified tour perfect for cruise visitors - Explore beautiful beaches and scenic lookouts in Bowen - Enjoy a seaside fish and chips meal, plus drinks included - Relaxed atmosphere with local insights and commentary throughout

We're all about the turtles! Not only are we the only turtle spotting cruise, we are also Airlie Beach's Only Whisper Quiet, Emissions Free Electric Boat. Cruise in silence with no nasty fumes in our environmentally sustainable luxury boat. Calm water cruising, perfect for all abilities, intimate and fun for up to 8 guests on any cruise.

Discover the enchanting nature of the Whitsundays on a guided bush walk that takes you from the lush rainforest at Brandy Creek rainforest to the coastal Coral Beach. This immersive adventure in 2 National Parks allows you to explore the rich ecosystems and diverse wildlife of the mainland, all led by a knowledgeable Eco Nature guide. Stroll through lush landscapes, learn about local flora and fauna and unwind with a morning tea while soaking in panoramic views of the Whitsunday Passage. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking to connect with the outdoors, this small group experience offers plenty of opportunities to capture the stunning scenery.

Set out on a half-day catamaran tour to stunning Whitehaven Beach for swimming at this postcard–perfect slice of paradise. Considered one of the world's top beaches and the most beautiful one in the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach is a must-see in the Great Barrier Reef region. Travel in comfort from Port Airlie on a motorized catamaran with air-conditioning. Morning or afternoon tea is provided on board and your crew supplies beach activities and informative commentary along the way.