Sitting off Queensland‘s coast in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the 74 stunning islands that make up the Whitsundays are a gem of Australia’s Sunshine State. Head of Product, Liz, recounts her time exploring this spectacular archipelago.
As the helicopter blades began to whir the excitement levels soared. Heading out from Hamilton Island, the views of the coral reef and turquoise waters below looked bizarrely like an ancient map. Before long we were circling over the aptly named Heart Reef, perfectly formed amidst the maze of surrounding coral.
In the deeper water nearby we encountered migratory humpback whales. There was an explosion of white spray as one breached, before crashing back into the ocean. Another slapped its fin against the surface in a rhythmic salute. Seeing them from above was a huge privilege and we soon lost count as we kept sighting more tell-tale blows in all directions. This really was a pinch-me moment!
We touched down on the dazzling white silica sand of Whitehaven Beach, on Whitsunday Island. A quick toss of a ball escalated into an impromptu game of touch rugby on the beach, before stopping to toast the occasion with a glass of champagne and taking a dip in the shimmering blue sea. What a day…
The magic didn’t stop there though. The next morning we cruised out to ReefWorld, a pontoon moored at Hardy Reef. Snorkelling here is kaleidoscopic – intricate and colourful coral gardens are peppered with schools of tropical fish that provide flashes of electric blue and vivid yellows. A sea turtle drifted by serenely, while a reef shark cruised beneath me, seemingly oblivious to my presence.
Once the day-trippers departed, silence fell. Surrounded by the ocean on all sides we were treated to the most spectacular sunset. After a hearty dinner I climbed into my Reefsleep swag – a cleverly designed tented bed on the upper deck of the pontoon. I gazed up at the vast canopy of stars above while the soft sound of the sea lulled me to sleep. This is undoubtedly one of the most incredible places I’ve ever spent the night.
Awaking to a beautiful sunrise, there was time for more snorkelling as well as a semi-submersible excursion, before the boat returned to take us back to Hamilton Island. Once again we were on watch for humpbacks and they didn’t disappoint. From July to September this area is a significant calving ground, providing a fantastic opportunity to witness mothers with their young calves.
Back on Hamilton Island, an early hike up to Passage Peak was rewarded with sweeping sunrise views. We lingered at the summit, watching the path of two whales as they made their way through a channel between forest-clad islands, before returning to the beach for a leisurely paddle-board across the bay.
Later that day a celebratory dinner at the Catseye Pool Club was a fitting end to our stay. This restaurant, located at the newly opened The Sundays resort, features a menu by award-winning chefs Josh and Julie Niland, celebrating the very best of Australian flavours. The breakfasts here are pretty epic too!
It was hard to take in just how much we’d seen and experienced in just a few days. The Whitsundays showcased the best of the Great Barrier Reef and its incredible marine life, from above, below, and on the water. I can’t wait to go back…
Getting to the Whitsundays
Day trips to the Whitsundays are readily available from Airlie Beach, but to really make the most of your time here it’s worth spending a couple of nights, either on board a sailing trip or basing yourself on Hamilton Island.
Hamilton Island Hamilton Island offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets, from the luxurious qualia to the family-friendly Reef View Hotel, adults-only Beach Club and the recently opened The Sundays, as well as a selection of bungalows and villas. The island offers a wealth of activities and dining options.
You can fly direct to Hamilton Island Airport from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns, with Jetstar, Virgin Australia or Qantas. Helicopters can be organised from Mackay, Proserpine and Airlie Beach. Regular ferries connect Hamilton with Airlie Beach on the mainland. A wealth of multi-day sailing trips and day cruises are also available from Airlie Beach.
Feeling inspired?
If you’d like to start planning your own Whitsunday interlude as part of a tailor made holiday, browse our suggested Australia itineraries, call us on 01737 214 250, or send an enquiry to our Aussie travel specialists to start discussing your options.
For more travel inspiration read our blog, Queensland’s Top Ten >