Whitehaven Beach
Seven kilometres of 98% pure silica sand — the most photographed beach in Australia.
Whitehaven Beach is on the east side of Whitsunday Island and is only accessible by boat, helicopter or seaplane. The sand is 98% pure silica, which means it stays cool underfoot even in midday sun and it squeaks when you walk on it. The 7km stretch is fringed by national park rainforest — no resorts, no shops, no toilets at the main southern end (there are some at Tongue Bay to the north). Most visitors come on a day tour from Airlie Beach but you can also camp at Whitehaven Campsite if you want it to yourself at sunrise. The Hill Inlet lookout, at the northern end, is the angle you've seen in postcards — sand and water swirling into each other on the changing tide. Walk up before 10am for the cleanest light.
- Toilets at Tongue Bay
- Camp sites (permit required)
- No shops or food
Highlights
- ✓7km of pure silica sand
- ✓Hill Inlet lookout swirl patterns
- ✓Cool underfoot even in summer heat
- ✓Snorkelling in clear shallow water
- ✓Protected national park — undeveloped
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Whitehaven Beach?+
Day tour by boat from Airlie Beach (2 hours each way), helicopter, or seaplane. There is no road access.
Is Whitehaven Beach really 98% silica?+
Yes — laboratory tested. That's why the sand stays cool and squeaks when you walk on it.
Are there toilets at Whitehaven Beach?+
There are basic toilets at Tongue Bay and the Whitehaven Campsite. None at the main southern beach.
Can you camp on Whitehaven Beach?+
Yes, at the Whitehaven Campsite. Permits from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service are required.
When is the best time to visit Hill Inlet lookout?+
Before 10am, on a falling tide, for the clearest swirling sand patterns and best light.
Other beaches
Airlie Beach Lagoon
Free, lifeguard-patrolled saltwater swimming lagoon right in the centre of Airlie Beach.
Boathaven Beach
Sheltered stinger-net beach 5 minutes from town — locals' pick for a quick swim.
Cedar Creek Falls
Freshwater swimming hole at the base of a rainforest waterfall — a wet-season-only swim.