Welcome to
Whitehaven Beach

Queensland Australia

Located On Whitsunday Island

Hill Inlet Lookout

South Whitehaven Lookout

View of Whitehaven Beach From The South Lookout

About Whitehaven Beach

Discover the calming sense of freedom of Whitehaven Beach as you set foot on the pristine white powder sands, set to uncover the remoteness of this multi award winning tourism icon. With 97% pure, powder-white sands and crystal clear tropical waters, it’s easy to see why this beach on the eastern shore of Whitsunday Island in Queensland, Australia, is so breathtaking and untouched.

The beach stretches an impressive 7 kilometres long and curves like a new moon. At one end lies the Hill Inlet hiking trail, with its sea river pushing through the island’s centre and its stunning lookout that overlooks the Whitsunday Islands National Park and Whitehaven Beach. The south end also offers a spectacular lookout with views of the length of the beach and back towards the mainland! And if that wasn’t enough, there is a camping ground and no one lives on this island – talk about an idyllic escape from everyday life!

Thanks to isolation from the mainland (35 kilometres away!), the Great Barrier Reef marine park, and Whitsunday National Parks, this dreamy 98% pure silica sand destination has been protected for all of us to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Start discovering the perfect holiday today with our guide to Whitehaven Beach and the surrounding North Queensland region – there’s no better time than now!

REGION

Whitehaven Beach Visitor Information

Here you will find all the information you need to visit Whitehaven Beach

Tours To Whitehaven Beach

Tours To Whitehaven Beach

Choose your perfect Whitehaven Beach Tours From Airlie Beach, Daydream Island and Hamilton Island.
Find The Best Tours For You

South Whitehaven

Experience crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft silica sands and beautiful scenery. If you visit here you 100% stand on the official beach.
Discover South Whitehaven Beach

North Whitehaven

Explore Hill Inlet Lookout with its famous swirling sands. Enjoy the beauty of Betty’s Beach.
Discover North Whitehaven Beach

Camping

The only accommodation available is camping and it’s mind-blowingly beautiful! Have all 7km of beach to yourself at night.
Discover Camping On Whitehaven Beach

Airlie Beach

Known as “The Gateway To The Whitsunday Islands” this vibrant seaside town has something for everyone.
Discover Airlie Beach

The Great Barrier Reef

An awe-inspiring reef that stretches for over 2,300 kilometres in length and includes the Whitsunday Islands
Discover The Great Barrier Reef

Hamilton Island

From 5-star hotels to affordable bungalows this island resort is world-renowned for its tropical holidays.
Discover Hamilton Island

Whitsunday Islands

Welcome to the 74 Whitsunday Islands, located off the coast of QLD, Australia. Learn about the islands here.
Discover the Whitsundays Islands

Map of walking areas at Whitehaven Beach South

Maps Of Island And Beach

Before you travel to the region, discover the interactive maps including satellite and Beach 360 views.
See Our Whitehaven Beach Maps

Coral Sea Tides

It’s crucial to check the tides before going boating around the islands, as it can affect the safety of your journey.
Tide Chart Whitehaven Beach

Local Weather

Find the best days to embark on your Whitehaven Beach journey, and check the latest weather app right here
Whitehaven Beach Weather

How To Get Here

Without roads, there are 3 different ways to get to the beach on Whitsunday Island. Check out my guide
How To Get Here

Tourism Information

Whitsundays Best Attraction

I remember the first time I stepped onto Whitehaven Beach. The crystal clear turquoise shallow waters and pure white sand felt like nothing I had experienced in my travels – an experience that ultimately led to me living here just over 21 years ago! The sun shone brightly, reflecting off the sparkling sea and creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that made me feel so alive and left me realising plenty of untouched paradise locations still exist.

This pristine beach with calm waters is unlike any other in the world; its beauty lies in its naturally distanced, untouched state and 98% pure silica soft sand that never heats up under your feet. Everywhere you look, there’s something new to discover as nature runs wild in this part of my backyard.

Whitehaven Beach truly has everything for everyone and is family-friendly for children of all ages; whether you want to relax by swimming, spending time in the day-use area (which has toilets and picnic tables), or just soaking up some rays while admiring its spectacular views, it’s guaranteed an unforgettable experience. No wonder 75 000 people visit annually, and why it’s been voted one of TripAdvisor’s best beaches in Australia year after year!

Hill Inlet Whitehaven Beach Whitsundays QLD 4802

Destination Information

What is so special about Whitehaven Beach?

Remoteness – You’re 35km across the Coral Sea from mainland Airlie Beach, but it feels like a million miles away! That’s because Whitehaven Beach is located on the paradisiacal Whitsunday Island – and you must take a boat trip or helicopter to get there. So it’s the perfect remote escape if you dream of freedom. So why not make your own adventure and experience some true serenity?

2. The sand – The sand here is divine; it’s 98% pure silica, made up of tiny beads that glisten in the tropical sun while still remaining cool to the touch, even during the hottest days. It feels like you’re walking on luxurious velvet!

3. Hill Inlet – the North end of the beach has an inlet that stretches far into Whitsunday Island. At its widest point, it spans 700 metres, and if you visit at low tide, you’ll be able to witness the beautiful swirling sand pattern for over 4km along the shore.

4. South Whitehaven Lookout – I think this lookout offers one of the most magnificent views of our Whitsunday Islands paradise – you can see all 7km of the beach plus multiple islands and inlets. Truly stunning!

5. The awards – Whitehaven Beach has won so many awards over the years it would be impossible to list them all, but here are some highlights:

2021 TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award #1 best beach in the world.
2018 Flight Network awarded Whitehaven Beach #2 for the World’s Top 100 Beaches.
2017 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards Best Beach in South Pacific and Australia.
2016 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards Best Beach in South Pacific and Australia.
2010 News network CNN.com. Named Whitehaven Beach the Number One Eco-Friendly Beach in the world.
2008 Keep Australia Beautiful awards nominated Whitehaven Beach as the cleanest beach in Queensland.

Satellite View

Whitsunday Island Whitehaven Beach Map

Whitehaven Beach Whitsunday Island, QLD 4802

Testimonials

Reviews From Whitehaven Beach Visitors

Whitehaven Beach

4.8

Based on 760 reviews

review us on

劉軒光

09:41 11 Jul 23

Whitehaven Beach can be said to be one of the must-see attractions in the Whitsunday Islands. You can buy packages from local tours or buy tickets for the ship transferring you to it, and there are half-day trips and one-day trips for you to choose from. The one-day itinerary includes a short walk directly to the Hill Inlet lookout, which I personally think is a must. As for Whitehaven Beach itself, it is a place suitable for engaging in various sea activities (stand-up paddle, swimming) or simply enjoying the sun on the beach which many people do so. Also, if you like hiking, there is also a lookout there, but please don’t confuse it with the Hill Inlet Lookout. Furthermore, because of the characteristics of white sand, it does not absorb heat, and the particles are very fine, just like powder, therefore, it is a great pleasure to walk on it.

Nath J Whitsundays

11:19 23 May 23

I get asked a lot why Whitehaven Beach is so special … the sand is one of highlights but for me it’s travelling on a boat 35km from the mainland to an uninhabited island with a 7km long beach that is never crowded. Love spending time here ❤️

Chris Hardstaff

10:32 15 May 23

Most amazing beach in the world, beautiful white sand that doesn't get hot under foot!! Might sound unbelievable but it's true!!We go every time we are on Hamilton Island or nearby. And just across from the south end of Whitehaven is Chalkies beach, which has some pretty good snorkelling.

Khalid Mewati

07:51 11 Apr 23

*ABOUT:- Whitehaven Beach is on Whitsunday Island, Australia. The island is accessible by boat, seaplane & helicopter from Airlie Beach, as well as Hamilton Island. It lies across from Stockyard Beach, better known as Chalkie's Beach, on Haslewood Island.*Famous for :- its silky smooth white sand and crystal clear turquoise water, Whitehaven Beach is on the bucket lists of travellers worldwide with thousands making the journey each year. Despite the number of visitors, the iconic pure white sand found only on Whitehaven Beach and the surrounding landscape remains pristine.

joanna chen

13:27 25 Mar 23

The most beautiful beach I've ever been to...the natural beauty of this place is cannot be described by words 😭😭😭😭😭 if you are going to airlie beach, you MUST take at least a day trip to see the Whitehaven beach. It is truly like no other beach in the world. The sand here is so white and fine, the water is so clear and blue. The boat ride is sooo worth it.

Liz Andrewartha

07:43 12 Mar 23

This is a must see place. White sand and turquoise water... can't go wrong. It is stinger season, so the tours supply stinger suits. Use them or don't... but be prepared for living hell if you happen to meet up with a little irukandgi. But don't let that deter you - it's heaven on earth and we'll worth the visit. There are toilets but as a National Park, it is totally undeveloped. Accessible by boat, helicopter and seaplane.

Tammy Richie

12:15 01 Nov 22

Never ever tire of this place especially being there with good friends…Whitehaven Beach always so changing …Nice, clean Jeweley again …Crystal clear water …Soft silicone sand ..The third most popular photographed place in Australia…Ahhh my cup is well & truly full ..If you haven’t ever been to the beautiful Whitsundays islands in beautiful Qld …I highly recommend it !Queensland.. beautiful one day, perfect the next for sure

Dan Duncan

04:42 03 Sep 22

I can see why this is regarded as one of Australia's most beautiful beaches/locations. The various shades of blue/aqua in the water and the amazing sand makes this such a picturesque location. Used the sand to clean up our jewellery we were wearing and it certainly sparkled thereafter. I can also see why so many movies utilise this space in filming. Check this out. Walk up to the Hill Inlet Lookout for spectacular views - a must

Steven Tuhy

10:24 02 Aug 22

Regularly voted as one of the most picturesque beaches in the world. Whitehaven beach has stunning white sand contrasting the vivid, crystal clear water. The beach stretches for a wide arch. This remote location means there are few crowds. Highly recommend visiting this beach, by sea or by air.

Dinesh Sharma

04:51 27 Jun 22

It is indeed the best beach in the world. Absolutely stunning.

Brian Hurst

06:44 10 Jun 22

A very impressive location.You feel you are in a special place.Beautiful beach, lovely blue water, white sand.. A delight to swim at or to stroll along the beach.It can get crowded at times, so be prepared for that. If you want secluded beach, probably best to go a a private boat trip to another beach location on one of the islands.The boat trip there and back is well worth it.

Jigar Mehta

06:55 03 Feb 22

Whitehaven Beach is named as the best beaches in the world (By TripAdvisor in Year 2021). This is third most visited place in Australia.The beach has very soft white sand which is very good for our skin. We had been instructed not to carry this sand back home.The beach has crystal clear water.Unfortunately NO FOOD or DRINKING WATER is available at the beach. Make sure bring your own food or pre-order with your tour.Visit of this beach was an amazing experience.

Zhengming Zhang

10:14 14 Jan 22

It’s even better when you look down from the sky.

Dylan Locke

03:04 10 Nov 21

An amazingly beautiful beach, feels like paradise.

Kyle Humphries

06:43 20 Oct 21

This must be the most stunning beach in the world 10/10 recommend

Guzel Gabbs

00:53 18 Sep 21

Lovely food, big portions, great staff, beautiful location! Thank you guys!

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Whitehaven Beach

About Whitehaven Beach