Ever dreamed of having that idealic island of the Great Barrier Reef holiday, lazing away the day on a deserted beach or sailing past uninhabited islands and colourful reefs. Perhaps you’re looking for awe inspiring dives or simply snorkeling your way around warm clear azure blue waters. Whatever your style, there are over 25 island resorts found on 74 stunning islands to choose from and its all smack bang in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef. Sunbathe on the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach (constantly voted in the top ten beaches of the world) or fly over a heart-shaped reef. There’s so much to see and do, or you can choose to lay back and do absolutely nothing at all.
*the above video features footage from The Whitsunday’s and throughout Queensland
The mainland town of Airlie Beach provides access out to all of the island resorts and is abuzz with a fun nightlife and youthful feel. However to really get your ‘island of the Great Barrier Reef’ experience, a stay on one of the islands is a must. With exclusive opulent resorts, basic eco-bungalows and family fun resorts, the choice of accommodation is all yours. Hamilton Island is the main gateway to the region with its airport, range of accommodation styles, restaurants, bars and shops, but smaller more exclusive islands are also abound.
The Whitsundays is renowned around the world for its superb sailing waterways, where you can explore calm aqua-blue waters and a myriad of islands from the bow of a sailboat… cruise around islands, drop anchor for a quick snorkel or fall asleep at night to the gentle rocking of the waves under a canopy of stars. If diving is your sort of adventure, the region teems with vibrantly coloured reef and fish, but even a quick snorkel from your hotel doorstep can reveal nature’s underwater rainbow. Or to really lap it up in style (but without costing the earth), why not board a sea plane to a deserted sandy cay, and enjoy a private champagne lunch and be picked up later in the afternoon.
With the colour of the reef literally on your hotel doorstep, some of the most beautiful waterways in the world and luxurious accommodation options to choose from, you are sure to feel like a celebrity, no matter your budget.