Whitehaven Beach is a definite “must-see” in the Whitsundays. The crystal clear aqua waters and pristine silica sand of Whitehaven stretch over seven kilometres along Whitsunday Island , the largest of the 74 islands in the Whitsundays. It defines nature at its best and provides the greatest sense of relaxation and escape.
As soon as you arrive it’s easy to see why it is the most photographed beach in Australia and has been named “Queensland’s Most Beautiful Beach” by ‘Keep Australia Beautiful’ and Queensland’s Friendliest Beach more than once. cnn.com recently named Whitehaven Beach the ‘world’s top eco-friendly beach 2010′.
At the northern end of Whitehaven Beach is Hill Inlet, a stunning cove where the tide shifts the sand and water to create a beautiful fusion of colours. As the tide shifts, the white silica sand and turquoise shades of the inlet blend seamlessly to create a breathtaking view of swirling Whitsunday colours.
For the best view, journey to the lookout at Tongue Point on Whitsunday Island. Time your lookout experience on low tide to fully experience the beautiful fusion of colours that surface. For bareboats, the best spot to anchor is in Tongue Bay, and tender into the beach to commence the short walk up the hill to the lookout across Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach and back down the other side to secluded Betty’s Beach, at the tip of Hill Inlet.
There are several ways to experience the beauty of Hill Inlet. Many companies offer day trips to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet by ferry, power boat or luxury yacht. Most overnight sailing trips also stop here.
Self-sufficient boaties and campers can even anchor overnight off the beach, or book a national park campsite and camp on the southern end of the iconic Whitehaven Beach itself. More on camping here.
Scenic helicopter and seaplane flights over Hill Inlet promise amazing aerial views as the magical waters and sand dance below.
