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Airlie Beach – Heart of the Reef

A slice of paradise called Airlie Beach exists on Australia's East Coast, midway between Rockhampton and Cairns. Recognised as the gateway to The Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach has a lot on offer and is one of the country's most beautiful coastal towns.

The warm sea breezes, picturesque beaches stretching along the coastline, lush rainforests, sunny days and balmy nights offer a relaxed lifestyle with abundant wildlife. Whether you're taking a break with the kids, partner or friends, Airlie Beach has something for everyone.

We look at some of the top things to do in Airlie Beach.

Airlie Beach Lagoon

Situated right in the centre of Airlie Beach, the lagoon is the perfect spot for a swim. Featuring children's and adult's pools, it is a go-to place for tourists and locals, with barbecue facilities, shaded picnic areas, landscaped gardens and a state-of-the-art play area for kids.

Airlie Beach Markets

Located on the foreshore every Saturday, wander through the stalls full of fresh local produce, arts, craft and souvenirs.

Fishing

Fish the large variety of tropical fish found in the blue waters. Shute Harbour is one of the best fishing spots open to the public, and there's a custom-made fishing pontoon ready for you to throw a line in.

Bicentennial Walk

The Bicentennial Walk stretches five kilometres from Cannonvale Beach into the Airlie Beach Lagoon. Discover restaurants, live music, cafes, beaches and spectacular coastal views along the way. Keep an eye on the water and see if you can spot the turtles.

Cedar Creek Falls

There are plenty of day trips to explore the region, including one of the most popular, Cedar Creek Falls, just a 30-minute drive. Swim underneath the falls in the natural freshwater swimming pool at the base of the waterfall, or laze in one of the runoff streams.

Conway National Park

Conway National Park is a peaceful coastal park with rainforest-clad hills, secluded beaches and panoramic outlooks over the scenic Whitsunday area. For something different, ride your own Segway along the Great Whitsunday Trail.

Golf

Don't forget the golf clubs, because there are great courses like the Whitsundays County Golf Club with some to-die-for views and Proserpine Golf Club not too far away.

Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet

Take a day trip to Whitehaven Beach, the best beach in the world. Whitehaven Beach stretches over seven kilometres and boasts brilliant white silica sand that is among the purest in the world. Hill Inlet is a stunning inlet at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach, where the tide shifts the sand and water to create a beautiful fusion of colours.

Whitsunday Islands & the Great Barrier Reef

There are plenty of tour options from Airlie Beach to discover the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including ocean rafting, cruises, jet skiing, sailing, scenic flights and much more. The choices are endless. It will be an experience you won't forget.

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

If you’re looking for the ultimate family holiday, stay at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort. Featuring a huge resort pool, 13 waterslides, an adventure playground, tennis, mini golf, pedal cars, a kids club, outdoor movies, an animal park and more.

Airlie Beach is the perfect base to experience Whitsunday's magnificent wonders and soak up the warm sunshine.

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