Whitsundays snorkeling

Whitsundays itinerary ideas for 1, 3 & 5 days

Making the perfect schedule

The Whitsundays are stunning, but squeezing everything in can be tricky without a plan. Ferry rides are short, but tide times, reef visibility, and cruise slots matter more than you think.

Choose one must-do highlight, whether that’s Whitehaven Beach, an outer reef snorkel, or a whale-spotting sail, and let the rest of your trip fall into place. From early-morning day trips to week-long island-hopping adventures, a little smart planning means more reef time, smoother connections, and plenty of room for hammock hours.

Choose your ideal timeframe

  • Morning – Whitehaven Dash
    Take the 7am express to Whitehaven’s south end. You’ll get two peaceful hours for photos on the white sand and a swim. Hike the short Solway Circuit for great inlet views before the crowds arrive.
  • Midday – Hill Inlet Lookout
    Head north and walk up the shaded boardwalk to the lookout. From the top, you’ll see tidal swirls creating stunning sand patterns. Bring reef-safe sunscreen since there’s little shade at the summit.
  • Afternoon – Reef Snorkel
    Hop back on the boat for a snorkel at Haslewood Island’s fringing reef. Lycra suits are provided, and visibility is usually around 12 m, often clearer after a southerly breeze.
  • Evening – Sunset Sail
    Back in Airlie by 4pm, step onto a tall-ship twilight cruise. Enjoy a cheese platter, drinks from the bar, and pastel skies to end your day.
  • Day 1 – Hamilton Highlights
    Take a morning ferry, check into your resort, and visit WILD Life Park for a koala cuddle. Spend the afternoon paddleboarding at Catseye Beach, then enjoy sunset cocktails at One Tree Hill.
  • Day 2 – Outer Reef Adventure
    Head out on a full-day trip to Hardy Reef. Snorkel, take an optional helicopter ride, or explore the underwater observatory. End the day with fresh seafood by the marina.
  • Day 3 – Whitehaven & Hill Inlet
    Transfer early to Whitehaven Beach for a guided hike, picnic, and a relaxing swim. Return to Airlie in the evening or stay an extra night at your resort.
  • Day 1 – Airlie Beach Arrival
    Settle in with a swim at the lagoon, stroll the esplanade, and enjoy dinner by the water. Pick up reef-safe essentials for the trip.
  • Day 2 – Camira Sailing
    Spend the day sailing on a fast catamaran with an open bar and beach BBQ. End with sunset views at Coral Sea Marina.
  • Day 3 – Reefworld Adventure
    Head out to the outer reef. Choose to stay overnight and sleep under the stars on a swag deck above glowing coral.
  • Day 4 – Daydream Island Relaxation
    Enjoy the hydro-lounge pool, visit the Living Reef touch-tank, and walk through rainforest trails to the Mermaids Sculpture. Wrap up with an outdoor starlight cinema.
  • Day 5 – Scenic Farewell
    Take a seaplane flight over Heart Reef and Conway Range waterfalls before your airport transfer.

Make every hour count

Time your visit right

Hill Inlet’s sand swirls and reef visibility depend on tides. Mid-tide during full or new moons gives you the best colours and sand patterns.

Save with passes

Multi-stop passes bundle ferries and tours, cutting costs by up to 15%. They also protect your connections—if one tour runs late, your next ferry adjusts automatically.

Pack smart

Catamarans only allow 23kg per suitcase. Store extra bags in Airlie lockers so you can island-hop light and skip excess baggage fees.

Book dining early

Top island restaurants like Bommie (Hamilton) and Infinity (Daydream) fill up weeks ahead. If you're looking forward to premium dining, reserve before your trip so you don’t end up with just takeaway pizza.

























































Whitsundays snorkeling
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