10 Best Beaches on the Whitsundays for Visitors
- Written by Allie Brown
- Last Updated October 28, 2026
The Whitsundays is an island-lover’s dream. There’s 74 of them sprinkled across the warm, clear waters of the region and each has its own charm. Naturally, some of the best beaches are found away from the mainland, so if you don’t have the time to visit all the islands to check out their sandy shores, then prioritise these ones.
1. Betty's Beach
Located on Whitsunday Island near Hill Inlet, it offers the same fine, white silica sand as Whitehaven Beach but with a much more peaceful atmosphere. While the crowds spend their day on the more famous neighbouring beach, this ‘hidden in plain sight’ gem is worth the extra effort to discover. Most visitors reach Betty’s by boat, arriving on the eastern side of Whitsunday Island; you can also get there on foot from the Hill Inlet Lookout Track. The water is calm and protected from the prevailing winds, making it ideal for relaxing swims and beach picnics.
2. Chalkies Beach
Located on the western side of Haslewood Island, Chalkies is often referred to as Whitehaven’s ‘little brother’ thanks to its fine, white sand, turquoise water and vibrant coral reefs close to shore. It’s a place for relaxation away from the crowds and snorkelling – particularly at the northern end of the beach where the reef is at its prettiest. Access to Chalkies is via boat tour, private charter or bareboat. An added bonus is that there’s a short walk to a lookout that has great ocean views across to Whitehaven.
3. Catseye Beach
Located on the busy resort destination of Hamilton Island, Catseye Beach is one of the easiest island beaches to access, but also one of the busiest. However, it comes with access to catamarans, paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkelling gear available for hire. The tides in north Queensland can be big, and at Catseye the low tide reveals an expansive sandflat that’s ideal for a family walk and explore.
4. Langford Island
It might be small, but Langford Island is one of the best islands in the Whitsundays. Famed for its long, narrow sand spit that emerges at low tide, this hidden gem is a short journey from the much larger and better-known Hayman Island in the northern part of the Whitsunday chain. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, sunbathing, turtle spotting, and snorkelling. Whether you’re bareboat sailing through the Whitsundays or looking for a spectacular day-trip, Langford Island is a must-see.
5. Whitehaven Beach
No list of beaches in the Whitsundays is complete without a mention of Whitehaven. Located on Whitsunday Island, this 7-kilometre stretch features 98% pure silica sand, with the swirling turquoise waters of Hill Inlet at its northern end. It’s an iconic destination and frequently ranked among the world’s best beaches. At the northern end is Hill Inlet lookout and the southern end also has a short walk that leads to a stunning viewpoint. Access is easy via one of the many day trips operating from Airlie Beach, or you can sail there yourself on a bareboat yacht hire.
Mainland & Coastal Beaches
Not every traveller has the time or desire to head offshore to find a beach for a swim, sunbake and snorkel. Thankfully, there are plenty of spectacular, people-friendly beaches all along the mainland in the Whitsunday region.
6. Boathaven Beach
The main hub for the Whitsundays is Airlie Beach, and right in the heart of it is Boathaven Beach. This man-made, white sand beach is just a short walk from town, and being protected by a large stinger net you can swim in it year-round, even during stinger season (November to May). It’s quieter than the nearby lagoon and is great for watching the passing boats and enjoying the views of Pigeon and Double Cone islands. There are plenty of nearby places to grab a bite between dips and it’s also relatively sheltered from the prevailing winds.
7. Cannonvale Beach
Cannonvale is a family-friendly spot 3km west of Airlie Beach, with a playground, toilets, barbecues, picnic tables and a stinger net in season. It stretches along a north-facing shoreline that despite being quite close to Airlie, feels like it’s a world away. There’s a sealed path along the length of the beach, making it ideal for a sunset stroll. The nearby restaurants and cafes make Cannonvale a great spot for a full day, where you can grab a meal between swims.
8. Horseshoe Bay
A short drive from the town of Bowen, Horseshoe Bay is a pretty, sheltered location, known for crystal-clear water and nearby granite boulders that are great for an explore. It’s one of the most beautiful, accessible mainland beaches in the area, with granite headlands, calm water, amazing visibility and stunning views. For the more active, a short 10-minute walk will take you to Rotary Lookout where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the bay.
9. Dingo Beach
A short drive north of Airlie Beach takes you to this relaxed coastal escape. Being a car ride away from town means not so many people find their way to Dingo Beach, but make the effort and you’ll find a wide shoreline, calm waters, sea breezes, and a chilled vibe. It’s great for relaxed swims, picnics and a barbecue in the shade. The nearby Dingo Beach Hotel is the perfect spot to end the day with a cold drink, live music and a feed.
10. Hydeaway Beach
Just beyond Dingo Beach, near Cape Gloucester, Hydeaway Bay is a quiet 1.5km stretch of sand with sweeping views out to the islands. It’s a tiny coastal hamlet at the end of the road, some 50km from Airlie. What was once a spot dotted with shacks for local farmers, is now built-up with a few hundred houses dotted along the beach and hills. The snorkelling and fishing are good, but best of all is the serenity.
Our top picks
Best for families
The best beach on the Whitsundays mainland for families is Cannonvale and for those headed to the islands, Catseye on Hamilton Island is a standout. They’re both great for safe swimming in calm waters, with easy access to dining options and activities.
Best for swimming
If you like to swim in smooth waters and safety from stingers then head to Boathaven in Airlie. For those on Haslewood Island exploring the islands, Chalkies Beach on Haslewood Island is the pick for a swim. The scenery is amazing and you can enjoy your time in the water, free from crowds.
Best for families
For a day relaxing on the beach in the Whitsundays, few spots on the mainland can rival Hideaway Bay. But for those looking at seeing an icon while chilling out, then board a tour boat for Whitehaven Beach.
