Hamilton Island is one of the jewels of the Whitsundays. For those exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is a destination in its own right. With a tapestry of blue, pure white sands and waters teeming with whales and bright marine life, it's an idyllic spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, and exploring by sea. As an exclusive and sought-after destination, Hamilton Island is also home to beach clubs, excellent restaurants, and wellness facilities.
Part of the wonderful Whitsundays and situated to the east of Hook Island, Border Island has all the ingredients for a dreamy overnight anchorage. Part of the Marine National Park Green Zone, Border Island is ideally placed for hitting some other Whistunday favourites such as Tongue Bay and Chalkies. Set sail for the northern shore of Border Island where the blissful Cateran Bay is waiting with its secluded sands and shaded green slopes. On Border Island, the snorkelling is exceptional and you can flit away with bright coloured fishes and plate coral - notable snorkelling spots include Cateran Bay and Pitstop Cay. For those who want to dry off from all that swimming and snorkelling, you can head up to the Border Island Lookout. Hiking across the grasslands, you are treated to incredible views that stretch out across the island and beyond.
Long Island is the closest island in the Whitsundays to the mainland. It is ideal for visitors looking for peace and tranquillity. Surrounded by beaches, bays and reefs, it is perfect for snorkelling, beachcombing, walking, kayaking, swimming and fishing. The resorts have al fresco dining, a bar and a store for self catering.
Neck Bay on Shaw Island remains a yachtie favorite for those craving a secluded escape far from the madding crowds. A poster child of Whitsunday perfection, Neck Bay offers sublime snorkeling, swimming in bright blue waters, beach walks, fishing, and bird watching. The Whitsundays is home to thousands of fish, seabirds, marine turtles, and tons of different types of coral - meaning that water wildlife lovers will be in their element on this seascape safari. The beach always seems secluded at Neck Bay, and a pretty hiking trail stretches from one side to the other. Shaw Island is one of the more remote anchorages in the wonderful Whitsundays and is perfect for whiling away the day.
A divine dive site to the north of Australia’s Whitsunday Islands, Hardy Reef and Hook Reef offer shades of blue like you’ve never seen before. Depending on the time of year you travel, you can often spot migrating humpback whales, pods of playful dolphins and even whale sharks in the turquoise waters below. A dream destination for keen scuba divers and snorkelers, this fragile environment is home to deep channels which can be seen from onboard as contrasting cobalt curves between the reefs. With countless diving schools and scattered pontoons, charter guests can also spot the renowned, and highly photographed Heart Reef nearby, adding an element of romance to this trip of a lifetime.
Due to its protected status, visitors to Heart Reef in the Whitsundays may not swim or snorkel near the reef. Named because of its shape, it is best to fly over it and land nearby, from where a glass-bottomed boat can take you closer to see its splendor.
Hayman Island is the northern most of the Whitsundays and near the Great Barrier Reef. The small island is privately owned but open to the public with several amenities including golf, tennis, a kids’ club and several swimming pools. Additionally, there are many other activities including snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing, fishing, tube rides, helicopter rides to view the Reef, or just walking around enjoying the scenic beauty. The resort has several dining areas each with its own style of food.
Whitsunday Island is the largest in the group of the same name. Here you will be enchanted by powdery white beaches, such as the world famous Whitehaven beach, rich marine life and beautiful coral reefs.