Airlie Beach in Queensland, Australia has made a name for itself as the jumping off point for some of Australia's most beloved tourist destinations. Australian travellers seek out this petite spot to explore the beautiful Whitsunday Island and the Great Barrier Reef. Sailing, shopping, dining, and relaxing are favourite pastimes in this all-around vacation spot that has something for everyone from the beach bum to the family vacationers to the honeymooners and the rugged outdoorsman. As long as you stay away from the jellyfish, you're sure to have a great time in Airlie Beach.
Getting in and around Airlie Beach
Proserpine Airport
Air travellers to Airlie Beach will fly into Proserpine Airport, also referred to as Whitsunday Coast Airport. Airlines offering flights into this tiny coastal airport include Virgin Blue and Jetstar from neighbouring airports in major cities. It's also possible to take a bus tour to Airlie Beach from one of the many tourist destinations nearby.
Airlie Beach Transport
Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a bus to Airlie Beach too, however, many of these buses must be booked ahead of time. You can also take a taxi to your lodging in Airlie Beach.
Airlie Beach Car Hire
Car hire in Airlie Beach is the best way to get around and see the sights. It's a small area and navigating it on your own is easy to do. Many of the major car hire companies operate in Airlie Beach, which makes finding car hire for Airlie Beach very convenient.
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Airlie Beach, Whitsundays accommodation
Airlie Beach has long been known as a backpacker's destination, filled with hostels and budget accommodation. However, the rest of Australia has discovered this little gem of a holiday destination and luxurious and commercial hotels, resorts, and apartments have moved into Airlie Beach. There's something for every budget in Airlie Beach.
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- Waterfront Whitsunday is an elegant boutique hotel in Airlie Beach. This property is an entirely unique hotel experience.
- The Peninsula Hotel in Airlie Beach offers modern amenities and decor along with spacious rooms and flawless service. It is the ultimate in luxury accommodation in Airlie Beach.
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| Mid-range |
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| Budget |
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| Backpackers |
- Beaches Backpackers is a great, centrally located hostel connected with one of the most popular nightspots in town. Fun-loving guests can enjoy regular live music and a great location.
- Backpackers by the Bay This award-winning hostel is equipped with beautiful decor and everything you need for a comfortable stay in Airlie Beach.
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Things to do in Airlie Beach Whitsunday
Airlie Beach is known for its sailing industry and access to the Great Barrier Reef. But there are so many other fun and unique things to do in Airlie Beach. Here are just few things to help pass the time!
Sailing. Airlie Beach is a great place to experience sailing, whether it's your first time or you're a veteran sailor. Visitors to Airlie Beach can enjoy day sailing trips or even overnight sailing trips to get a taste of this popular pastime.
Airlie Beach Lagoon. The Airlie Beach Lagoon offers a great and safe alternative to beach swimming. Its proximity to shopping and dining makes the Airlie Beach Lagoon a wonderful place to relax.
Whitsunday Quad Bike Bush Adventures.
Airlie Beach is also the gateway to Australia's wild and untamed wilderness. Just ten minutes outside of Airlie Beach, you can experience an exciting tour of the Australian bushland on an all-terrain vehicle.
The Peter Faust Dam. For those who want to get in a bit of fishing during their trip to Airlie Beach, Peter Faust Dam is the ideal spot. The Peter Faust Dam is a well known and popular spot for sport fishing among area fishermen and tourists alike.
Airlie Beach skydiving. You're on vacation and you're excited to do something you've never done before. There's no place to have your first skydiving experience like Airlie Beach. Not only will you get that ultimate head rush, you'll get a fantastic view of the area.
Barefoot Bushman's Wildlife Park. Australia's known for its unique and exotic wildlife. Barefoot Bushman's Wildlife Park is the place to experience the amazing fauna of Airlie Beach.
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Day trips in and around Airlie Beach Whitsunday
Whitunday Crocodile Safari. Take a day to see these dangerous yet magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Take a rugged safari along the Proserpine River to see the surrounding areas and rare wildlife.
Cedar Creek Falls.The beach isn't the only thing Airlie Beach has to offer. Just a few miles outside of town, you'll find Cedar Creek Falls. These breathtaking waterfalls are a truly spectacular place to go swimming, hiking, take in the beautiful wildlife, and relax.
Air Tours of the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkelling and scuba diving are just two ways to see the beauties of the Great Barrier Reef. To take in the spectacular size and beauty of this magnificent natural wonder, air tours are the best way to go. Helicopters and seaplanes are available for amazing aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkelling and Diving on the Great Barrier Reef. You haven't been to Airlie Beach unless you've been snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. The Reef is Airlie Beach's main attraction and there are snorkelling and diving tours to meet every taste and budget.
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