Airlie Beach is the launch point for one of the widest activity lineups on the Queensland coast, on the water, in the air and out in the hinterland. Whether you have half a day or a full week, here is a cross section of what is actually bookable around the Whitsundays, from a 30 minute jet ski blast to a 2 night sailing adventure.
Adrenaline on the water
The 1.5 Hour Jet Ski Tour of Airlie Beach and Pioneer Bay covers 30 kilometres of guided riding on twin share Sea Doo jet skis, with turtles and dugongs regularly spotted along the way. For a shorter, sharper hit of speed, the Airlie Beach Jet Boat Tour is a 30 minute ride around Pioneer Bay packed with 360 degree spins and power stops.
Into the air
The Airlie Beach Tandem Skydive 15,000ft is a full tandem jump above the Whitsunday Islands, with up to 60 seconds of freefall and a canopy ride back down over the reef and coastline, all gear and an instructor included, no experience necessary.
Reef and Whitehaven Beach cruises
The Whitsundays Outer Reef Day Tour cruises to the Reefworld pontoon at Hardy Reef, with 4 hours for snorkelling, a semi submersible tour and an underwater observatory. The Whitehaven Beach Sailing Tour on Camira sails to Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inlet lookout aboard one of the world's fastest catamarans, all inclusive with a barbecue lunch and drinks.
Multi day sailing
The Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure on Broomstick is a 2 day, 2 night trip aboard a maxi yacht, with guided snorkelling, island hikes, meals and onboard accommodation included for travellers who want more than a single day out on the water.
Beyond the water
The Falls to Paradise tour explores the Whitsundays hinterland's waterfalls and swimming holes over a full day. The Whitsundays Kayaking Guided Turtle Tour is a calmer half day paddle suited to spotting turtles without the cost or commitment of a full reef cruise.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most popular Whitsundays activities?
Jet ski tours around Airlie Beach and Pioneer Bay are among the most booked activities, alongside reef cruises to the outer Great Barrier Reef and day trips to Whitehaven Beach.
Is there a multi day activity option?
Yes. The Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure on Broomstick runs 2 days and 2 nights with onboard accommodation, guided snorkelling and island hikes included.
What can I do in the Whitsundays if I do not want to get in the water?
Tandem skydiving, waterfall and rainforest tours such as Falls to Paradise, and scenic land based day trips all run without requiring you to swim or snorkel.
Do I need experience for jet skiing or skydiving?
No. Jet ski tours are guided with an instructor leading the group, and tandem skydives are strapped to a qualified instructor for the entire jump, so no prior experience is required for either.
How much time should I set aside for a reef cruise?
Most reef day cruises run a full day, departing early morning and returning mid to late afternoon, with 3 to 4 hours typically spent at the reef or pontoon itself.
Local tip: pair a higher energy activity like jet skiing or skydiving early in your stay with a slower paced day, such as a half day kayak or a waterfall walk, later on to balance out the pace of your trip.
Compare the Whitsundays activities above and build the mix of adrenaline, wildlife and relaxation that suits your trip.