Updated
Pristine nature meets star quality service in the picture perfect destination of the Whitsundays.
It's a mecca for honeymooners and family alike with it's network of idyllic islands, including Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Hayman Island, Long Island and Whitsunday Island, most of which offer everything from sun and surf to boating and underwater adventures.
Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport is found on the mainland and is a popular gateway into the area. Alternatively, there is an airport on Hamilton Island which is served by many domestic airlines.
Being surrounded by the sea, naturally, most of the island's activities are water-based. Multi-day sailing trips, Great Barrier Reef excursions and whale watching are popular activities. But even if you're not big on water sports, there are still plenty of things to do in the Whitsunday Islands like hiking and golfing.
The tropical Whitsunday Islands boast year-round beach weather, with the summers being a few degrees warmer but much more humid with a higher chance of rain.
Expect to wear summer clothing any month of the year, however you may need a cardigan or light jacket in the evening during winter (June to August).
If you're looking for the best time to visit Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays, we've outlined the best months of the year to go for different activities, weather, prices and more.
Types of transport. Shuttle buses and ferries connect the Whitsundays and Hamilton Island with the mainland (Airlie Beach) and surrounding areas. On Hamilton Island, a complimentary shuttle service is available and you have the option to book a buggy to get around. Ferries connect the popular islands and are an affordable and fun way to get around. Private cars are prohibited on Hamilton Island.
Paying for transport. On Hamilton Island, you can book and pay for shuttle buses and buggies through your hotel or online before you arrive. Tickets for buses from Airlie Beach and around the Whitsundays are available on the spot from the driver. A hop on, hop off ferry pass allows holidayers to explore Airlie Beach, Daydream Island and Hamilton Island.
Best apps for getting around. The Hamilton Island Pocket Guide includes tips for getting around, timetables and a booking platform.
Most resorts and hotels offer free airport transfers from the region's two main airports, Hamilton Island and Proserpine.
Viator, City Discovery and Jayride also offer airport transfers from Proserpine Airport to Airlie Beach. Whitsundays Transfers provides personalised airport transfers that meet every flight from Whitsundays Coast Airport to Airlie Beach, Shute Harbour and resorts, hotels and holiday apartments in the area.
Taxi. The Whitsundays is served by a 24-hour taxi company that can be booked online or hailed from the main taxi rank in the centre of Airlie Beach.
Uber. Uber is not available on Hamilton Island or the Whitsundays.
Regular ferries depart from Hamilton Island, Airlie Beach, Daydream Island and Shute Harbour between 6:45am and 5pm, seven days a week. The frequency depends on the time of year you travel, but most services depart every 30-45 minutes.
Skyscanner
Australia-wide flights from $65 + one free date change
Ends
Available on select flights until 31 October 2020 with Jetstar. Destinations include Sunshine Coast, Whitsundays, Perth, Cairns, Hobart and more. Sample fare is Sydney-Ballina Byron.
Skyscanner
Queensland flights from $85 each way with Virgin Australia
Ends
Available on select dates from August 2020 - March 2021 to Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Melbourne, Sunshine Coast, Hamilton Island and more. Sample fare is Gold Coast-Sydney.
Contiki
Up to 15% off Australia tours
Ends
Available on select 2020 and 2021 dates to Byron Bay, Uluru, Perth, Whitsundays, Melbourne, Adelaide and more. Plus lock in your tour for $99 when you book by 1 September 2020. T&Cs apply.
STA Travel
Up to 20% off 10-day Queensland tour
Ends
Available on select dates until 2022. Destinations include Cairns, Byron Bay, Magnetic Island, Whitsundays and Noosa Everglades. T&Cs apply.
