Whitehaven Beach
Hill Inlet Lookout
South Whitehaven Lookout
Welcome to Whitehaven Beach
© Official Local Whitsundays Website
Located On Whitsunday Island in Queensland, Australia, Whitehaven Beach is famous for its pure white silica sand, Hill Inlet Lookout and South Whitehaven Lookout.

Whitehaven Beach Visitor Information
Here you will find all the information you need to visit Whitehaven Beach and the Whitsunday Region.

Newest Attraction at Whitehaven Beach
ZigZag Whitsundays brings you Whitehaven Beach’s newest adventure!
Hop aboard Super Flyer, a spacious, high-speed vessel with unlimited beach-to-boat transfers, sun lounges, and air-conditioned comfort.
Choose from a full day at Whitehaven Beach or add a snorkelling adventure at stunning coral reefs.
Want more? Upgrade to a 60-minute scenic flight over Heart Reef and the Great Barrier Reef. With a guided walk to South Whitehaven Lookout, a buffet lunch, and expert local crew, this is the ultimate way to experience the Whitsundays!
Tours To Whitehaven Beach
Choose your perfect Whitehaven Beach Tours From Airlie Beach, Daydream Island and Hamilton Island.
Find The Best Tours For You
Accommodation
From Island Resorts to Airlie Beach and remote island camping, the Whitsundays have your ideal holiday accommodation options.
Discover Accommodation Options
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
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
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
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!
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!
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
I think I got all the shots of my life here.
The beach itself stretches over 7 kilometers, so there’s plenty of space to find your own little piece of paradise. The lack of commercial development and crowds makes it feel like you're stepping into a secluded, untouched world. The gentle waves are perfect for a relaxing swim, and if you’re into hiking, there are scenic lookouts nearby, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the beach and the surrounding islands.
One of the highlights for me was the eco-friendly approach to tourism. The area is well-preserved, and there’s a strong emphasis on sustainability, which adds to the experience. Whether you’re coming by boat, seaplane, or on a guided tour, the journey to Whitehaven Beach is as beautiful as the destination itself.
Overall, Whitehaven Beach is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Great Barrier Reef region. It’s a true natural wonder that offers peace, beauty, and serenity. I can’t wait to return!
Fun fact: Due to the high silicon content in the sand, it doesn't get hot, so it's very comfortable to walk on.
You can swim in the beautiful scenery as you see, but is it transparent? There were a lot of fish and I was bitten lol
It was used in a cigarette commercial a long time ago...
It's a place you should go to at least once!
Thanks to the Queensland government for preserving its environment and protecting its coastline. This beach remains untouched by human impact. The location is only accessible by boat or by air, making it truly exceptional.
We celebrated our wedding on this beach, and we felt like we were the only ones in the world.
It can definitely be the most beautiful call in the world for its white sand of almost 100% crystalline silica
Unfortunately, bathing during box jellyfish season is better with a suit.
The beach is accessible by boat or seaplane, enhancing the sense of exclusivity. Hill Inlet, where the tide creates a stunning fusion of colors as the water meets the sand, is a must-see marvel that adds to the overall allure of Whitehaven. The surrounding lush greenery and the Whitsunday Islands' iconic turquoise waters complete the postcard-perfect scene.
Whitehaven Beach offers more than just a picturesque setting; it provides an escape into tranquility and natural wonder. The eco-friendly management ensures the preservation of this pristine environment. Whether strolling along the shoreline, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply basking in the sun, Whitehaven Beach is a quintessential destination for those seeking serenity amidst nature's grandeur. It stands as a testament to Australia's natural beauty, leaving visitors with indelible memories of a truly idyllic escape.
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.
*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.
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
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.
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.
Visual Tour
Stunning Video Of The Beach
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