Who better to recommend the best activities and experiences that Queensland’s Whitsunday region has to offer than the team at Discovery Parks – Airlie Beach! Our resident experts have compiled a list of their favourite local things to see and do to make sure you get the most out of your next escape to Queensland’s Whitsunday Region.
 

1.  Visit Hydeaway Bay

Park Manager Michael’s favourite go-to when guests ask where to visit is Hydeaway Bay. It’s only a 30min drive from the Park and the view from the lookout is spectacular. Don’t forget that at low tide you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the sand.

2.  Visit the outer area of the Great Barrier Reef

The most spectacular part of the Great Barrier Reef is here: sitting off the coast of Airlie Beach, heart of the Whitsundays. Go down, snorkel and see the wonders of the Whitsundays - you may even encounter the Maori Wrasse “George” and a couple of turtles to boot. These day tours can be booked at Park Reception and discounts apply to selected trips for G’day Rewards Members.

3.  Bird Feeding (Rainbow Lorikeets)

Debbie, one of our Grounds Staff Extraordinaires passion is the Rainbow Lorikeet feeding EVERY DAY at 8am by our pool area. This is an interactive activity that can’t be missed. Watch out though, they might land on you! 

Debbie says you can’t miss this because it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s a ‘back to nature’ feel and says you can’t think of anything else when 200 rainbow coloured birds descend from above and land on your shoulders and arms and want to be fed from your hands – it's so surreal!

4.  Hamilton Island

The best day trip resort experience as told by Park Manager Michael, and Ground Staff Extraordinaire Debbie is Hamilton Island. You can do bush walks, visit lookouts, mini 4wd, use all resort facilities including but not limited to their public pools, pool bar for the 18+, stand-up paddle board, ten pin bowling and heaps more. The views are breathtaking and not to be missed if in the area. The highlight by far is grabbing lunch at the Marina Tavern and overlooking the stunning views of the marina!

5.  Visit Whitehaven Beach

Whitehaven Beach has been named the second best beach in the entire world. Come and have a look to find out! You won’t believe how on a hot day the pure white sand feels like cool water on your feet. You’ll be shocked at how blue the water is, and you won’t want to leave the views of the swirling sands. Ask the Reception team about the discounts available on these amazing day tours.

6.  Visit Whitsunday Airport

See the old planes, including a Tiger Moth, take part in an acrobatic flight (tours booked at Reception with discounts for G’day Rewards Members on select trips) or grab lunch at the Hangar Café. Our Receptionist Brittany will always recommend here for a bite to eat, and being a short 2min drive from the park, you will often see her there on her lunch break! Be sure to say g’day!

7.  Bushwalks

Head Housekeeper and local explorer Christine loves nothing more than going out in the area and exploring some of the nice Whitsundays mainland trails and finding what most would consider magical. What have you found while walking in the area? Please come and show us or tag us on social media - we love to see the Wonders of the Whitsundays. All the above sights can be found on the Honeyeater Walking Trail. Christine always says: “you’ll never know the wonder you may find if you take the time to look”.

8.  Cedar Creek Waterfalls

Have you seen the local waterfall? It’s only a short drive and then a 20-step walk to see one of the hidden gems that only locals know about. The best time to view is around the wet season or straight after rain as this will have the falls flowing at their best but be careful if you go for a dip - it can be cold!

9.  Lagoon

Have you got an afternoon with nothing to do? Head on into the main street and enjoy the lagoon! This location has the best waterfront views for a picnic or hop in and have a swim. Bianca, Assistant Manager, says that her family with 2 young boys (7&5) can be found sun baking here or swimming (or splashing!) in the lagoon.

10.  Whitsunday Sunset/Walk the Board Walk

Are you looking for the most magical sunset of your life? Go for a drive or a short walk into the main street and when you walk along the boardwalk, stop right in front of Coral Sea Marina. You’ll view something people can only dream of, but make sure you look up from your camera and enjoy it – it won’t last long!

Are you ready to explore everything that Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays have to offer?

Perhaps you’ve been inspired by one of our in-park expert recommendations?