Airlie Beach

Travel Guide

Airlie Beach Lagoon showing swimming, a pool and general coastal views
Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach
Shute Harbour which includes general coastal views and boating
Enjoy picture-perfect water, lie on the soft white sand, or take a cruise around one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal beaches.

Airlie Beach is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays but with many scenic walks and beautiful beaches, it is also a great place to spend some time.

Wander along the beach and take in the scenery. This is one of Australia’s prettiest coastal areas, with crystal-clear blue-green waters, white sandy beaches, and tropical rain forests. Pack some lunch, stock up on water, and tackle the Great Whitsunday Walk. It goes for several miles but tracks are well-maintained and there are plenty of spots to rest and relax. For some of the most scenic walks in the area, head to Hill Inlet. You’re likely to see local wildlife and will get a stunning view of Whitehaven Beach from the hilltop.

Make your way back to town and cool off in the lagoon. This is Airlie’s main swimming area as large numbers of stinging jellyfish mean beaches are off limits during the warmer months.

Those out to better explore the area should rent out a jet ski or kayak and look around the area. Adventurers can go diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Local companies cater for pros and novices alike, and you’ll get to see some of the world’s most amazing marine creatures. Fishing fans will find some great spots on land or you can jump aboard a charter boat and head out to sea. Leisure seekers will find fully-catered yacht trips to destinations all around the region.

Airlie Beach is a tropical destination with a lovely, local atmosphere. Walk around and admire the stunning scenery, cruise out to the Reef, or find yourself a comfy patch of sand and relax.

Airlie Beach Hotel

Airlie Beach Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Corner The Esplanade and Coconut Grove, Airlie Beach, QLD
Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Airlie Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,009 reviews)
"Great vibe. Super comfy beds, clean and excellent location. Staff very helpful and friendly."

Reviewed on 21 Jul 2025

Airlie Beach Hotel
The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach

The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach

4.5 out of 5
3 Hermitage Drive, Airlie Beach, QLD
The price is €151 per night from 13 Aug to 14 Aug
€151
13 Aug - 14 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Airlie Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (408 reviews)
"Lovely, easy and great location"

Reviewed on 22 Jul 2025

The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach
Coral Sea Resort

Coral Sea Resort

4 out of 5
25 Oceanview Avenue, Airlie Beach, QLD
The price is €191 per night from 30 Jul to 31 Jul
€191
30 Jul - 31 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Airlie Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a marina. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (997 reviews)
"View was excellent, however management is cutting corners on some basics"

Reviewed on 22 Jul 2025

Coral Sea Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
at Boathaven Bay Holiday Apartments

at Boathaven Bay Holiday Apartments

4 out of 5
440 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, QLD
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly aparthotel in Airlie Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (639 reviews)
"2 bdrm unit was a very generous size. Clean and well set out. The spa on the balcony was fantastic."

Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

at Boathaven Bay Holiday Apartments
Pinnacles

Pinnacles

5 out of 5
16 Golden Orchid Drive, Po Box 1322, Airlie Beach, QLD
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Airlie Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (631 reviews)
"Wonderful place close to the shops and the water"

Reviewed on 21 Jul 2025

Pinnacles
Martinique Whitsunday

Martinique Whitsunday

4 out of 5
18 Golden Orchid Drive, Airlie Beach, QLD
Stay at this 4-star luxury aparthotel in Airlie Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (570 reviews)
"Great view and close to everything! Hill is tough but gets easier every time you walk up, kind of works like built in exercise haha. Loved the hut tub after long days of exploring:)"

Reviewed on 26 Jul 2025

Martinique Whitsunday
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do