What Are The Best Islands In the Whitsundays?

Choose the best islands to visit with our guide

IF YOU'RE PLANNING A GETAWAY TO THE WHITSUNDAY REGION THIS YEAR, YOU'RE PROBABLY INVESTIGATING THE BEST ISLANDS IN WHITSUNDAYS.

When you visit the Whitsunday Islands, you can enjoy the benefit of the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep, being surrounded by some of the most pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters and scenic bushlands Australia has to offer. Whether you're seeking an action-packed holiday of family fun or would prefer to check in to a luxury suite with a significant other, the Whitsunday region has something for you.

So, what are the best islands in Whitsundays region? Wings are a multi-award-winning charter vessel operator providing tours throughout Queensland and specialising in the Whitsundays. The best islands in Whitsundays region will depend on the type of holiday you seek. Among some of the most popular islands in the Whitsunday region for visitors are Whitsunday Island, Hamilton Island, Airlie Beach, Hayman Island and Daydream Island. We'll examine each of these islands in more detail and explain why each one might be the best island for your adventure.

WHAT ARE THE BEST ISLANDS IN WHITSUNDAYS?

The Whitsundays are situated on the Northeast coast of Queensland and feature an archipelago of stunning islands. Bordering the Great Barrier Reef, most of these scenic islands are uninhabited. However, several islands have been facilitated with resort-style accommodation to suit most holidaymakers.

If you're wondering where to stay in the Whitsunday Islands, you'll be pleased to know that you are spoilt for choice. Characterised by a warm climate, dense rainforest, bright white sand, and turquoise waters, the Whitsunday region is home to some of Australia's best islands. Some of the most incredible islands in the Whitsunday region include (but are not limited to):

  • Whitsunday Island
  • Hook Island
  • Hamilton Island
  • Langford Island
  • Long Island
  • Hayman Island
  • Haslewood Island
  • Brampton Island
  • Daydream Island
  • Shaw Island

HOW MANY ISLANDS DOES THE WHITSUNDAYS HAVE?

So, what islands are in the Whitsundays? The Whitsundays include 74 blissful small islands. The scenic archipelago of the Whitsunday region is a phenomenal tourist destination. Each island is unique and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Australia. Because each island offers something special, it's difficult to determine the best islands in Whitsundays. Therefore, we recommend careful consideration into what islands are in the Whitsundays before you depart to ensure you're getting the most out of your trip.

WHAT ISLANDS CAN YOU STAY ON IN THE WHITSUNDAYS?

Although the Whitsundays is a trendy destination for holidaymakers, not all of these blissful islands are inhabited. That's where we can help. As expert tour operators in the Whitsundays, we can give you a few tips on whether to stay in the Whitsunday Islands. The best islands in Whitsundays region to stay on include:

  • Whitsunday Island
  • Hamilton Island
  • Hayman Islands
  • Daydream Island

WHITSUNDAY ISLAND

Whitsunday Island adventure

The first port of call for your Whitsunday Island adventure is Whitsunday Island itself. Whitsunday Island is the largest and arguably, one of the best islands in Whitsunday region. Whitsunday Island is home to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Whitehaven Beach is renowned for having the most pristine white sands and dazzling turquoise waters. The Hill Inlet lookout offers the most incredible views of white sand and turquoise water of the Whitsundays and extensive views across all the nearby islands. It's one of the most amazing views of the Whitsundays you'll get without jumping in a plane.

WHITSUNDAY ISLAND - ACTIVITIES

One of the most popular activities to do in the Whitsunday Islands is simply to float in the water and take in the surrounding views. Whitsunday Island is a perfect destination to relax, switch off, and just appreciate the world's natural beauty. Completely immerse yourself in the experience from the water with a half-day cruise through the dazzling haven of Whitehaven Beach. If the Hill Inlet isn't enough for you, why not take it one step further? The ultimate views are available in a 60 minute Whitsundays scenic flight. Visitors can enjoy an all-encompassing bird's eye view of the entire Whitsunday archipelago.

WHITSUNDAY ISLAND - WHERE TO STAY

If you're wondering where to stay in the Whitsunday Islands, the island itself is the ultimate place to disconnect from reality and completely immerse yourself in nature. The only option for Whitsunday Island visitors in terms of accommodation is camping. Ideal for budget travellers or those looking for the ultimate disconnection from reality, Whitsunday Island camping options are not for the faint-hearted. If you're not into the camping scene, don't worry. We've got something special for you coming right up!

HAMILTON ISLAND

Hamilton Island is one of the best islands in Whitsundays

Ahhh, Hamilton Island. There's a reason why this part of the Whitsundays is the go-to island. Hamilton Island is one of the best islands in Whitsundays region because it is the largest inhabited island. It is a haven for families and luxury lovers. Hamilton Island is car-free, surrounded by dense bushlands and encompassed by beauty that is the Great Barrier Reef.

HAMILTON ISLAND - ACTIVITIES

Hamilton Island enjoys a year-round tropical climate, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy water sports such as snorkelling, stand-up paddle-boarding, and wakeboarding. Arrive in style in a scenic Hamilton Island freestyle cruise, including island bushwalks, lunch at the marina, and the opportunity to explore various shops, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

HAMILTON ISLAND - WHERE TO STAY

Lovers of luxury will be pleased to know that Hamilton Island is home to one of Australia's most luxurious and indulgent resorts, Qualia. Located in the northernmost part of Hamilton Island, the resort enjoys panoramic water, island and bushland views. Think private plunge pools, facials, on-site restaurants, massage, yoga and award-winning luxury and service. Yes, please!

If you'd rather splurge on activities over accommodation, don't fear. Hamilton Island has a variety of family-friendly, romantic couples or self-contained room options across several reasonably-priced venues.

HAYMAN ISLANDS

Hayman Island

While we're on the topic of luxury, the Hayman Islands offer sophisticated resort-style holiday resorts for couples. If you're seeking a romantic getaway, the idyllic Hayman Islands, with its five-star accommodation options, is one of the best islands in Whitsundays for you and your significant other.

HAYMAN ISLANDS - ACTIVITIES

The Hayman Islands are the ideal location to relax and recharge. Spoil yourself and your loved one with a spa treatment. Alternatively, feast on some of the cuisines on offer at the local restaurants. If you're looking for more vigorous activity, visitors can hike to the peak of the Hayman Islands and watch the sunset over the majestic cluster of islands below. Otherwise, diving with Whitetip reef sharks and hammerheads native to the Hayman Islands is one way to increase your heart rate!

HAYMAN ISLANDS - WHERE TO STAY

The InterContinental Hayman Island Resort is the top selection for selecting where to stay in the Whitsunday Islands. This 5-star resort offers a unique private island luxury with stunning island views of the surrounding Coral Sea. With a wide variety of suite types available for all kinds of guests, we're confident you'll love every minute of your stay at the Hayman Islands.

DAYDREAM ISLAND

Daydream Island

Daydream Island is one of the best islands in Whitsundays for families. As one of the Molle Group's seven islands, a sub-set of Islands within the Whitsundays, Daydream Island is one of the tiniest island destinations. Daydream Island measures 1 km in length and 400 m at its widest point. Don't let its size defy you – Daydream Island has plenty to do for kids and families.

DAYDREAM ISLAND - ACTIVITIES

Daydream Island is the ultimate destination for the kids to learn about sea life. Located near the Living Reef aquarium, Daydream Island visitors can explore over 100 local marine life species, including fish, small sharks, rays, and other reef-dwelling creatures. Alternatively, kids can easily access some of the leading Great Barrier Reef tours from Daydream Island. There are several Great Barrier Reef adventures to choose from, including cruising, snorkelling, complimentary lunch, and incredible sunset views.

DAYDREAM ISLAND - WHERE TO STAY

At Daydream Island, the choice is easy. There's one resort on the Island, the Daydream Island resort. With a variety of self-contained suites and family rooms to choose from, there'll be something for every family at Daydream Island. The Daydream Island resort also hosts its types of restaurants, including Graze, Infinity and Inkstone. Each of these restaurants features international cuisines. What more could you want?

WHAT ISLANDS ARE OPEN IN THE WHITSUNDAYS?

In these uncertain times, it's perfectly normal to wonder what islands are open in the Whitsundays. Budding tourists of the Whitsunday region will be pleased to know that the Whitsunday region is back open and operating as normal. Therefore, all of the islands we have mentioned in this article are suitable to visit on your holiday.

CAN YOU DRIVE TO THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS?

Visitors of the Whitsunday Islands can enjoy a scenic drive from Cairns or Brisbane. However, the most glamorous way to arrive at the Whitsunday Islands is by boat. Sailing through the sparkling turquoise waters of the Whitsunday region is a truly enchanting experience. Hire a boat with a skipper or take control of the wheel with a private bareboat charter Whitsundays adventure.

EXPLORE THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS IN STYLE

The Whitsunday region is full of dazzling character and charm. If you're holidaying in this idyllic part of Australia, we recommend exploring the best islands in Whitsundays region. The best method of exploration is through Wings charters. Award-winning experienced professionals in the Queensland Tourism sector, Wings, are experts in the Whitsunday Islands. Contact our friendly team on +61 418 757 088 or book a tour online today and experience the best islands in Whitsundays with Wings.