airlie beach
6 min 2 yrs

The Whitsundays are rightfully known for their beaches and reefs as they are some of the most beautiful in the world. The collection of islands also has renowned national parks and picture-worthy landmarks you have to see on your vacation. For active travelers, hiking and biking are great ways to see the islands from different vantage points while staying connected to the surroundings.

Aside from sunburn, there really isn’t much to take you away from the beach. But there are some activities worth escaping to for a day here and there. The weather is perfect during the summer, and you really can’t go wrong no matter what you decide to do. Check out the other attractions throughout the islands to get a full experience.

There are opportunities to get up close and personal with some wildlife at parks and trails. And with the help of blogs like this, you can find out how to live like a local during your visit and appreciate simple delights in life

The Best Things to Do When You’re Not at the Beach

Hiking and Lookouts

These two activities are done at the same. The Whitsundays are full of wonderful trails you can walk to get to a lookout point. Talk about getting a new perspective on things. Most of the trails are easy enough and you don’t have to be a world-class athlete to complete the trek. Just take your time, enjoy the trail, and be sure to marvel at what you’ve accomplished once you make it to that awesome lookout.

Molle Island National Park

This protected land is the perfect retreat to nature. No matter what you’re interested in, there is an activity for you on Molle Island. It is another great spot for trail hiking and biking. Discover amazing lookouts and take your time passing through the trail. Try to spot wildlife roaming free. Molle Island National Park is a safe place for nature and people to explore until their heart’s content.

Bicentennial Walk

If you want a break from the water, but don’t want to go too far from the beach, this activity is perfect for you. This waterfront walk is about 4 kilometres long. It showcases the gorgeous coastline of Airlie Beach. Watch the waves crash as you take in the unmatched views.

Coral Sea Marina

Enjoy the finer things in life at this scenic marina. Shops, restaurants, and bars are aplenty. Choose your favourite spot and take in the view of brilliantly blue water with a mixed drink in hand. Many Cruise and diving companies operate from this marina as well. So, if you want to get back on the water, Coral Marina is a nice place to start at. Overall, this is a beautiful spot to hang out during your stay on the Whitsundays.

BIG4 Adventure Resort

This is the ultimate place to go to find fun for the entire family. Poolside bars and lounge chairs for parents. Slides and water rides, and mini golf for kids. It is set on a huge 10-acre space that is not far from Airlie Beach Lagoon. This resort is like having a vacation within a vacation. You can stay at the hotel on the resort or camp out in smaller cabins. This place is one of the best non-beach options for a family vacation.

Proserpine Historical Museum

For history buffs, Proserpine Museum is a must-do. Learning about the local history enriches your trip in ways you don’t expect. You can start to piece together how the place you’re in got that way in the first place. Proserpine is full of interesting relics from Australia’s past. See how people farmed the land as well as classical artwork. This excursion will take you back inland, so be sure to time your day accordingly with travel to and from the museum.

All types of travelers are welcome at Whitsunday Islands. The sunbather, the hiker, biker, scuba diver, boat cruiser, foodie, you name it. Whatever you are interested in, you can come to the Whitsundays and enjoy your favourite activity even if it doesn’t involve the beach.

Here are some activities you can enjoy while at Whitsundays:

  • Camping
  • Horse Riding
  • Mountain Biking
  • Fishing
  • Canoeing and Kayaking
  • Boating
  • Rock Climbing
  • Four-wheel Driving
  • Historical Sites
  • Bird Watching

That is just to name a few. Don’t spend all your money just to come to Whitsundays and experience one thing it has to offer. Get the full experience on and off the beach.

Conclusion

Let the nature and beauty of the Whitsunday Islands take over. Plan your trip around how you can most appreciate and interact with wildlife. Take time away from the beach to see sights you would otherwise miss. Do things on the islands that everyone else misses out on and give your family the best vacation ever.