Airlie Beach The Ibiza of Australia
The island of Ibiza in Spain may be the planet’s partying capital, but when it comes to hedonistic, sun-drenched backpacker havens, the Aussie substitute is Airlie Beach in Queensland’s Whitsunday region. Here, both locals and international globe-trotters find all the sun, sand and nightlife they can handle!
Top attractions
Whitehaven Beach cruise
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.
Tallship sailing
Spend your day sailing, snorkelling and beachcombing among the stunning Whitsunday Islands in protected waters. Exquisite!
Airlie Beach Lagoon
If all that nocturnal partying has taken its toll, chill out by this family-friendly lagoon to recover. The lifeguards will keep you safe.
Backpacker heaven
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.
