The island of Ibiza may be the planet’s partying capital, but when it comes to sun-drenched backpacker havens, the Aussie substitute is Airlie Beach.
Whitehaven is one of the most famous – and breathtakingly beautiful – beaches in the world, and getting there in a high-speed catamaran is pure luxury.
Spend your day sailing, snorkelling and beachcombing among the stunning Whitsunday Islands in protected waters. Exquisite!
If all that nocturnal partying has taken its toll, chill out by this family-friendly lagoon to recover. The lifeguards will keep you safe.
As the gateway to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach attracts backpacking sun-lovers and party-people from all over the globe. Spend your days island hopping, sailing or finding the perfect stretch of sand to chill out. Later, you can hit the Down Under Bar, where good music, hearty meals and the occasional beer will help you wind down from your sun-soaked exertions.