What To Do In Airlie Beach From A Local
Welcome to Airlie Beach, a stunning coastal town in Queensland, Australia. The heart of the reef and the gateway to the Whitsundays attracts many visitors. As diverse as the tourists are, so are the people who decide to make Airlie Beach home. We love to share our favourite spots to grab a bite to eat, watch the sunrise, or enjoy the best views. Whether stepping off a cruise ship or arriving by another means, here’s what to do in Airlie Beach, Australia, from a local.
Grab Breakfast In Airlie Beach
Live life like a local and start the day with coffee and breakfast at one of the local cafes. Many open early — perfect for grabbing a bite before heading on an adventure. Sidewalk Cafe is the go-to spot for a laid-back ambience, friendly service, heavenly coffee, cocktail favourites, and tasty meals. Grab some takeaway, or stay a while and soak in the vibe.
Buy Unique Souvenirs At The Market
If you’re in Airlie Beach on Saturday morning, the market is the place to be. The stalls are a feast for the senses, featuring local produce, handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, and delicious street food. Located next to the waterfront, you can enjoy live music and the friendly atmosphere while you support the community and find one-of-a-kind items to remember your trip by. Airlie Beach Market is open from 7 am to 1 pm each Saturday.
Get Around In A Tuk-Tuk
When you want to see it all, hiring a tuk-tuk is convenient for exploring Airlie Beach. A knowledgeable driver will take you and 1-2 other people around the town, where you’ll get an insider’s view of the best spots to visit. Because the tour is private, you can stop and stretch your legs wherever you want and get personal recommendations for what to do in Airlie Beach.
Relax At The Airlie Beach Lagoon
Surrounded by palm trees and views of the Coral Sea, the Airlie Beach Lagoon is perfect for relaxing and cooling off. It offers crystal-clear waters, a swimming pool, a kids’ splash area, and lush green lawns. The lagoon is free to enter and has lifeguards on duty, making it a safe place for visitors of all ages. It’s located in the heart of Airlie Beach and has BBQs, so you can spend the day or enjoy a quick dip.
Swim At The New Beach At Boathaven Bay
Our favourite beach in Airlie Beach is Boathaven Beach, a relatively new beach just a few minutes from the heart of town. The soft white sands, calm waters, views of the Whitsundays, and stinger nets for safety make it an enjoyable place to spend a while. Relax by the water, snorkel in the sea, and pack a picnic. Nearby is the marina, which has food, ice cream, and drinks.
Skydive In The Best Place In Australia
Considered one of the most beautiful places in the world to skydive, Airlie Beach offers breathtaking views from above. Tandem jumps provide safety and a unique perspective on the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, and the beauty of the region. Plus, the Whitsunday Coast Airport is only 5 minutes away from town, so you can easily fit your skydiving trip into a busy day of activities.
Stroll By The Sea
The Airlie Beach Boardwalk or Bicentennial Walk weaves around the coastline of Airlie Beach, making it ideal for a morning jog, a romantic evening stroll, or a leisurely bike ride. Along the way, you’ll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars where you can have a drink or a meal. The boardwalk also provides access to several beaches and parks, making it a great way to discover the natural beauty of Airlie Beach.
Enjoy The Airlie Beach Nightlife
When the sun sets, Airlie Beach comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene that attracts both tourists and locals from neighbouring towns. Magnums is a beach hotel bar that’s perfect for cocktails, live music, and people-watching. You’ll see tourists, but you’ll also notice many locals grabbing an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink and catching up with friends and family. Airlie Beach Hotel is another local favourite, offering an electric atmosphere with live entertainment, great food and drinks and the best sports bar in the region.
Hike To An Airlie Beach Lookout
For a view of Airlie Beach and a moderate hike, Honeyeater Lookout offers panoramic views of Airlie Beach, the marina, surrounding islands, and wildlife. Start the trail at Kara Crescent and follow the signs. You’ll traverse through forest, coastline, and plenty of shady areas on the 8.2 km loop. Make sure you include time to snap lots of photos.
Find A Swimming Hole
Most visitors to Airlie Beach also plan to experience the surrounding area. Cedar Creek Falls is an easy day trip from Airlie Beach, with its cool, clear water, cascading waterfalls, shady white cedar trees, palms, and orchids. It’s ideal for swimming and lounging. Whitehaven Beach is also one of the world’s best beaches, and many boating tours will take you from Airlie Beach. For more hidden gem beaches, head to Bowen, where you’ll find fringing reefs, quiet swimming spots, breathtaking landscapes, and another friendly town.
Explore The Whitsundays
Airlie Beach is your gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands, where adventure awaits around every corner. Whether you’re looking to explore by boat or jet ski or take in the breathtaking views from above on an aeroplane tour, Airlie Beach has you covered. Ready to start planning your Whitsunday trip? Drop by Sidewalk Cafe for a coffee and a friendly chat—our team is happy to share tips on what to do and help you make the most of your island adventure.
