Whitehaven Beach Whitsundays

Whitehaven Beach

A trip to Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays isn't complete without experiencincing the stunning Whitehaven Beach.Whitehaven Beach is located on the Whitsunday Island which is the largests of all 74 Islands. Whitsunday Island was originally home to the Ngaro Tribe.As you stroll along the 6kms of pure shores, it is easy to see why it is one of the worlds most beautiful beaches. Gorgeous white sand made up of 98% silica,complimented by cystal clear waters, Whitehaven beach is part of almost all of the boat trips in the Whitsundays and can also be part of your Whitsunday camping trip. Because the sand is so fine, take care of your camera. Many are damaged so make sure you have a case. Be sure to pack lots of water when visiting the beach. Here in the tropics we recommend at least 2 litres of water a day.

Tongue Bay

Tongue Bay is the Gateway to the beautiful Bettys Beach, a strecth of Whitehaven Beach. When approaching Tongue bay be sure to be on 'turtle watch' as this is a trurtle breeding ground. Tongue Bay is a popular moaring site and is great for a leisurley Kayak. From here you can begin your walk up to the lookout. It will amaze you what is on the other side of Whitsunday Island.

The Look out

The walk up tothe Lookout takes about 20 minutes. The pathway is gravel so take a pair of pluggers with you. The view from the lookout is one of Australias most photographed spots. From here you can see The Hill inlet, the 6km stretch of Whitehaven and on many occasions you can see Stingrays dwelling in the shallows. Hill Inlet is an estuary that winds intoWhitsunday Island. You will see the crystal clear waters flow over the white sand making amazing swirl like formations. Pictures from here make for picturesque postcards. Don't forget to take lots of water for the walk.

Bettys Beach

Bettys Beach is at the Southern end of Whitehaven. It can be accesed from Tongue Bay and the lookout. Enjoy a swim in the crytal clear waters, a packed picnic, a game of cricket, some sunbaking and a walk into ithe shallows to find some marine life. Commonly sighted are Lagoon rays and small reef sharks. These species are harmless to humans, providing we don't threaten them. If it is low tide you can access a locals favourite, Secret Beach. As you approach Bettys Beach from the lookout, walk right and experience an isolated patch of paradise.

Whitehaven beach and Whitsunday island are protected areas, be sure to...

"Take only photographs, and leave only footprints.''