Airlie Beach is the main gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and much of the Great Barrier Reef. Most island, reef, sailing, snorkelling and scenic flight tours start here.
🌴 Visiting Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays
Important things every traveller should know
Why Airlie Beach matters
⚠️ Marine Safety: What to Know Before You Swim
🪼 Stingers (Very Important)
- Stinger season runs roughly November – May
- Includes Irukandji and Box Jellyfish
- Stings can be serious or life-threatening
What to do:
✔️ Wear a stinger suit when swimming or snorkelling
✔️ Swim in patrolled areas or on organised tours
✔️ Use the Airlie Beach Lagoon during stinger season (it's safe year-round)
ℹ️ Most tours provide stinger suits — ask before booking.
🦈 Sharks & Crocodiles
- Sharks exist but incidents are extremely rare
- Saltwater crocodiles may be present in remote areas
- Crocs are not common at Airlie Beach itself, but never swim in creeks, murky water, or where signs are posted
🌊 Ocean & Beach Conditions
- Many local beaches are unpatrolled
- Strong currents and tides can occur
- Always follow warning signs and local advice
Safer options:
✔️ Organised island tours
✔️ Patrolled beaches
✔️ Airlie Beach Lagoon
🏝️ Island & Tour Destination Facts
🌊 Whitehaven Beach
- Famous for 98% pure white silica sand
- Sand doesn't heat up — comfortable to walk on
- No shops, shade or fresh water
- Limited phone reception
✔️ Bring water, sunscreen, hat
✔️ Listen to crew safety briefings
⛵ Sailing Tours
- Most popular way to see the Whitsundays
- Options range from day sails to overnight adventures
- Often include snorkelling, meals and island stops
✔️ Ask if the trip suits your comfort level
✔️ Seasickness tablets recommended if unsure
🐠 Snorkelling & Reef Tours
- Visibility changes with weather and tides
- Coral is fragile — never stand on it
- Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly recommended
✔️ Follow guide instructions
✔️ Wear flotation aids if not confident swimmer
✈️ Scenic Flights
- Best way to see Heart Reef
- Weather dependent — flights may be delayed or rescheduled
- Window seats matter — ask when booking
☀️ Heat, Sun & Weather
- Tropical sun is strong year-round
- Dehydration and sunburn are common tourist issues
✔️ Drink water regularly
✔️ Apply sunscreen often
✔️ Wear hats & light clothing
🌧️ Wet / Cyclone Season (Nov–Mar)
- Heavy rain possible
- Tours may change for safety
- This is normal and managed locally
🧭 Local Travel Tips (Worth Knowing)
- Book popular tours early in peak season
- Some islands have no facilities
- Respect marine life — touching coral or wildlife can cause damage
- Follow crew and guide instructions at all times
🔍
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