Plan the ultimate tropical weekend getaway in The Whitsundays

Let’s start with the basics. You’ll need to know how to get there and if you are short on time, we suggest flying. This weekend is all about maximising your time in The Whitsundays so kick off the weekend right by booking a convenient flight near your Whitsundays accommodation.

The Whitsundays Coast has two airports that provide access to the region. Choose from a flight to Proserpine with coastal accommodation located nearby at Airlie Beach. Travellers will find the town of Airlie Beach is an ideal location to base yourself as many of the Airlie Beach tours and Great Barrier Reef cruises depart from here.

If you are seeking a tropical island stay, direct flights are available to Hamilton Island and you’ll be treated to quite the views on your approach to the island. Guests can choose from an assortment of accommodation options to suit a range of budgets and the best part is your hotel digs are just short golf cart ride away from the airport.

Luxurious hotels and gourmet feasts make a holiday but it’s the experiences that you’ve come for. Nestled within the Whitsunday Island and the Great Barrier Reef - visitors can experience two natural wonders within one weekend.

Whitsundays Outer Great Barrier Reef day tours are available from the Port of Airlie and Hamilton Island and offer a full day of adventure. Boarding one of the premier vessels, you’ll be transported to the activity platform moored in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. From here, you can jump off the boat to stretch the legs and take part in an unforgettable snorkel or dive with marine life as you discover the dazzling coral reefs beneath the ocean.

For those who don’t fancy a swim, activities such as glass-bottom boat tours, underwater observatories and a spacious sundeck overlooking coral bommies are a brilliant way that everyone can experience the Great Barrier Reef. Morning tea, afternoon tea, lunch and all snorkelling equipment are provided for you. The only thing you’ll need to bring along is a towel and swimmers on this Great Barrier Reef day tour.

Many people often think that Whitsundays Jet Ski Tours are only for thrill seekers, that is, until they step up for a ride and realise how enjoyable it is. Guided jet ski safaris in the Whitsundays are suitable for most ages and you can share the experience with a friend or ride solo. Departing from Airlie Beach, riders will follow expert guides through the waterways to nearby islands and beaches on a 1.5 hour, 2 hour or 3 hour tour.

Start off slow and get a feel for the powerful jet skis and when you are ready, crank up the speed and put the ocean machinery to the test. If you prefer life in the slow lane, that’s okay too. Take it easy and admire the scenery around you. You are in The Whitsundays after all.

Maximising your time in The Whitsundays is the name of the game during your tropical weekend away and we couldn’t think of anything better than a Whitsundays Ocean Rafting Tour. The high powered inflatable ocean rafts will ensure you get to your destination in no time and the journey is exhilarating. Combining an itinerary of snorkelling coral reefs and an incredible visit to Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inlet, you can be rest assured that you have covered as many Whitsundays highlights as possible in one day.

There are a number of Whitsundays activities that allow you to experience the best of the region in half a day. One such experience are scenic seaplane and helicopter flights that will see you soaring high over spectacular tropical islands, Heart Reef and the Great Barrier Reef. From the sky, passengers have incredible photographic opportunities of the mountains terrain contrasted with the turquoise waters and golden sands of the Whitsunday Islands. Whitsundays scenic flights are scheduled regularly throughout the day so you can squeeze a scenic flight into your morning and take part in another activity in the afternoon if you wish.

The Whitsundays are made for sailing and the Atlantic Clipper day tour will have you cruising in style. Join the Atlantic Clipper for a full day adventure setting sail to Whitehaven Beach and The Hill Inlet. There is plenty of time for a stroll on the soft silica sands, an island walk to the lookout and opportunities to snorkel private coral reefs.

Relax in comfort on the spacious vessel with a 12 person jacuzzi, stand up paddleboards, dive platforms and 2 waterslides on board. All you’ll need to bring is yourself as morning tea, lunch and afternoon nibbles are catered for as you cruise the Whitsundays.

Are you ready to book a weekend getaway in the Whitsundays? Take advantage of the flexible booking options and discounted deals and starting planning a tropical getaway now. View our curated range of Whitsundays experiences here to enjoy an unforgettable weekend away.