Known as the gateway to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a great place to hop off for a few days to relax. If you have time we recommend doing a 2-3 day sailing trip to the Whitsundays. Otherwise have a swim in the local lagoon, chill out in cafes, or head out on the town to experience the famous Airlie Beach nightlife. If you are short on time but still want to experience the Whitsunday Islands, book a one day trip to catch some of the highlights.
Population: 10,000
Vibe: White sands, late nights
Known as: The East Coast party town
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Sail out to the Whitsundays
Take a 2 or 3 night sailing cruise out to the marvellous Whitsunday Islands. The turquoise water and white sand will send you into a dreamlike state of bliss as you sail around these tropical islands, snorkel with turtles, kayak next to stingrays and hike to epic viewpoints.
Skydive Airlie Beach
Falling out of a plane from 15,000ft is a pretty brave feat but we reckon you should keep your eyes open for this one. With views of pristine beaches, lush rainforest and even the Great Barrier Reef - this skydive location is sure to take your breath away and be seared into your memory for an eternity!
Chill by day, party by night
Airlie Beach is popular amongst backpackers for it's buzzy nightlife, so get involved with a pub crawl (or 3) after a long day of sunbathing and swimming at the lagoon.
Mount Rooper and Swamp Bay track
Join your Stray guide for a walk through Conway National Park to a spectacular viewpoint over the Whitsunday Passage and Islands.
WHERE STRAY STAYS
Nomads/Base Airlie Beach
Located right in the centre of town - a relaxing atmosphere with a resort-style swimming pool, tropical gardens and poolside bar sets this hostel aside from the rest.
Address:
354 Shute Harbour Road
Airlie Beach, QLD 4802, Australia
View in Google Maps
Tel: +61 7 4999 6600
STRAY PASSES & TOURS THAT VISIT AIRLIE BEACH
- Mick Freestyle Pass | Mick Freestyle Tour
- Trev Freestyle Pass | Trev Freestyle Tour
- Kat Freestyle Pass | Kat Freestyle Tour
- Stu Freestyle Pass | Stu Freestyle Tour
- Cam Freestyle Pass | Cam Freestyle Tour
READ OUR BLOG:
9 Reasons Australia Is Worthy Of Your Bucket List
You can't visit Australia and not spend some time in Airlie Beach! A backpacker haven that adds the cherry on top to your trip down under.