Whitehaven Beach
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Good Place to Relax,
Romantic,
Swim & Snorkel,
Beach
What makes Whitehaven Beach so special? It's the silica. The sand on this 6km (4 mi) stretch of paradise is 98% silica, the powdered remains of a long-dead coral forest. That's what makes it so sugar-fine, radiantly white and slip-through-the-toes silky.
Of course, a beach doesn't keep its Best Beach awards and places in Top 10 lists through sand alone. Whitehaven teams its pristine whiteness with warm, lapping, peerlessly blue waves, a rainforest backing and Hill Inlet, which is famous for the play of colour as the tide washes in.
Latest Reviews
Review by John G, November 2012
Doing what: 4-Day Whitsunday Islands Sailing Cruise
We had a great time the trip was lovely and relaxing, the food was excellent and we were taken to see some wonderful views. Sailing smoothly is the way to go.
Review by Marisa W, November 2012
Doing what: Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island Cruise
We thoroughly enjoyed our day trip to Hamilton Island and Whitehaven Beach. Not really beening a beach person, we spent enough time there, swimming and relaxing. The time at Hamilton Island was great! Even having been there before on several occasions, the day trip was not rushed. Very enjoyable day and worth it. Much more than we expected when we booked.
Review by Duncan M, August 2012
Doing what: 4-Day Whitsunday Islands Sailing Cruise
Excellent trip. Booking and confirmation was easy with timely reminders of the upcoming trip. The cruise was outstanding. The crew were excellent. Warm, friendly, professional and engaging. The food was excellent. ' Accommodation appropriate for a small sailing craft. Cosy and comfortable. Amenities great. Hot showers would have been a plus but did not detract from the cruise. Overall all aspects exceeded expectations. Would happily recommend trip to anyone. Trip boosted by weather, whales and turtles.
Practical Info
This is no surf beach - it's more a lie-back-with-a-sigh kind of place. Whitehaven Beach is on the uninhabited Whitsunday Island. If you're after a day on that famous sand, you can reach it by ferry or yacht from Airlie Beach. It's also included as a stop on many Barrier Reef tours. Or, if you're really in the mood to lash out, approach it by helicopter or seaplane for an aerial view of its stunning whites and blues.
