OVERVIEW
The 74 stunning Australian islands known as the Whitsundays are an idyllic honeymoon destination, beloved by backpackers and luxury tourists alike for their beauty, their amenities and their proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, if you want to experience this majestic natural wonder then the Whitsundays are the perfect place to stay, as they are located in the heart of the Reef and offer you delightfully easy access to its diverse species.
Located just off the Queensland coast, the Whitsunday Islands are actually the tops of a submerged mountain range, drowned at the end of the last ice age. Many of them have been awarded National Park status, and they are renowned around the world for their breath-taking views and unspoiled scenery. Over the years they have been carefully developed, and a number of the islands are now home to hotels and resorts, as well as other tourist-related facilities such as spas, golf courses and more.
Whichever island you choose to spend your honeymoon on, the Whitsundays offer a variety of fun-filled ways in which to experience the Great Barrier Reef. For example, if you have decided to choose Daydream Island as your romantic destination of choice, all you have to do is wander down to Lover’s Cove, walk into the water with your snorkelling masks and be surrounded by coral gardens brimming with marine life.
Alternatively, if you are keen scuba divers, why not arrange an unforgettable dive tour? If this is something you’d like to do it is worth spending your honeymoon on Hayman, Hamilton or Daydream Island as these island resorts all offer diving excursions.
Want to savour the beauty and diversity of the Reef without getting wet? Never fear, there are plenty of ways to do that too, from glass-bottom boat tours and kayaking to taking an airborne tour that sees you flying over the suitably romantic shape of Heart Reef, a truly incredible natural wonder and a very fitting sight for honeymooners.
Back on dry land, and the Whitsundays offer a variety of other enjoyable ways to spend your time. If you are staying on Hamilton Island you will be able to get up close and personal to a variety of Australian fauna courtesy of WILD LIFE Hamilton Island. This park is home to crocodiles, kangaroos, wombats and koalas, among other species, and offers enjoyable mini-tours as well as giving you the chance to have a cuddle with a koala and even have breakfast with them! Nocturnal tours are available too.
Then of course there is the iconic Whitehaven Beach to visit, on Whitsunday Island. This spectacular stretch of sand is said to be the most beautiful in Australia, a land famed for its beaches. Take a trip here from Airlie Beach (which also offers a variety of thrilling Reef tours and water sports) and bring a picnic along to enjoy on the pristine white silica sand. You will soon see why Whitehaven is Australia’s most photographed beach.
Whatever you end up doing during your stay in the Whitsundays, and whatever way you choose to experience the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef, you are sure to have the honeymoon of your dreams when you pick these stunning islands as your destination.
What is the currency in the Whitsundays?
The official currency of the Whitsundays is the Australian dollar (AUD).
How long does it take to fly to the Whitsundays?
Connecting flights from London to Hamilton Island mean a journey of approximately 1 day and 3 hours, though the exact time will vary depending on the airline you use.
What is the time difference in the Whitsundays?
The Whitsundays are GMT + 10, meaning there is a 10 hour time difference between the islands and London.
When is the best time to visit the Whitsundays?
While the Whitsundays are an idyllic destination year round, you will undoubtedly want to plan your honeymoon here to avoid the box jellyfish. The peak season for these ‘stingers’ is from October through to May.
What language is spoken in the Whitsundays?
Australian English is the most widely spoken language.
Do I need a visa to visit Whitsundays?
You do need a visa to enter Australia, including Whitsundays, to find out more information visit the FCO website here.
