Whitehaven beach in Queensland’s beautiful Whitsundays is very special to me. I first visited in 1993 on my honeymoon. We returned 10 years later on a perfect day to renew our vows on the pure white sand. When we found ourselves in the area again last month we just knew we had to go back. Whitehaven Beach is consistently rated in the top 10 beaches in the world and it’s easy to see why. If you are a beach person (and even if you are not!) you will be impressed by the pure white silica sands, the pristine National Park setting and the relative remoteness of this perfect beach so close to Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef. Read on for all the details …
Whitehaven Beach Overview
Whitehaven beach is located on Whitsunday Island, the largest of the 74 Whitsunday Islands. Whitsunday Island is uninhabited but is easily accessible from our Hamilton Island accommodation. Approximately 75,000 people per year visit Whitehaven beach, in fact it is the most visited attraction in the Whitsundays. Australia is known for it’s deadly wildlife and as inviting as these waters are, you should be aware that stingers such as Irukandji and Box Jellyfish are present year round with swimmers being particularly at risk between October and May. While the risk of death is low, an encounter with one of these critters will certainly ruin your day. A stinger suit is not flattering but it will increase you changes of avoiding an uncomfortable sting. Be safe! Located within the Whitsunday Island National Park, numerous walking trails start directly from the beach for those that crave a more active experience than lazing in the sun. If you can’t get enough of Whitehaven beach and want a more private experience, grab a camping permit, pitch the tent and spend an unforgettable night under the stars. Makes sure you check out my tips on scoring a bargain airfare before you book.
Getting To Whitehaven Beach
There are no shortage of tour operators to get you to Whitehaven. The last time we visited we flew from Hamilton Island by sea plane which is also possible from Airlie Beach. This time we didn’t want to pay $220pp so after weighing up our options we chose HI Watersports Whitehaven Dash at a much more reasonable $70pp. Our 9am departure was from the same marina as our recent sunset cruise. We had strong winds during the run out and I was glad I had thrown a jacket in my bag at the last minute. I rather enjoyed the rough ride but it might not be to everyone’s liking so check the conditions if you are concerned.
Famous White Sands
Touted as having one of the whitest sands in the world you really do have to see it for yourself to get a true appreciation. The 98% silica composition is what produces the bright white colour. While Hyamm’s beach (NSW Australia) officially holds the Guinness Book Of Records listing for the whitest sand in the world, Whitehaven cannot be far behind. The sand is incredibly fine, soft underfoot and makes a distinctive squeak under you weight. While it is said to be great at cleaning jewellery and teeth we opted not to put it to the test. The sand, as with everything else in the National Park is protected, so please do not be tempted to take a sample home.
Things To Do at Whitehaven Beach
Mother nature sure was in a fickle mood for our trip. The weather changed so many times we couldn’t keep up. I’m pleased to say that we got a few glimpses of dazzling sunshine in between the ominous looking dark clouds because this completely changed the hue of the water from a drab, dark almost muddy blue to an iridescent aquamarine that was picture perfect. Our tour allowed us about 90 minutes on the island which I thought was the perfect amount. The attentive crew set up esky’s and sports equipment for those who were interested but were not pushy about getting people to participate which can sometimes be the case. While our time on the beach was short we managed to stroll far enough away to escape the crowds. With not a soul around, we relaxed in our surroundings and could easily imagine we were the only ones there. This is the tropics, so even though we visited in winter it was still warm enough to swim, which is of course the main attraction. The impossibly clear water is more buoyant than down south and invites you to linger and float the day away. Whitehaven’s protected position makes it perfect for children to splash in the shallows without fear of getting dumped by crashing waves. The Hubs went for a wander on the trails behind the beach while I soaked up some rays. Truth be told, he was originally looking for the toilet but 15 minutes and a large loop later he still hadn’t located it.
Doesn’t Whitehaven beach sound wonderful? Book your Whitehaven experience here before you arrive as tours fill up quickly, particularly in peak season. If you have been I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Until Next Time …
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored. I paid in full for my tour and as always all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links for which a small commission may be paid.
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Orana Velarde says
I can’t get over the way the sound looks like clouds of cotton on the ground! Is that what it is? It’s so intriguing. I’m not a beach person at all but this place looks nice to pass a day in. The waves over the white sand look so serene its so lovely.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It sure is sand Orana. Whitehaven is just magical. A must visit in The Whitsundays ?
Maaya Legaspi says
Oh my gosh! The sand looks so fine! Good thing though you actually had a glimpse of the sun despite the dark clouds which I assume is a bad weather. If you’re looking for more white sand beaches, you should visit Boracay in the Philippines! Boracay also has the finest white sand and the water is also calming. 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Boracay is on my list Maaya. Maybe towards the end of 2017.
Bea says
Never rode a sea plane? What that it feel like? I lived in a country with so many beaches so I’m kinda expert with it. And I’ll definitely say that this is a beautiful one. The sand is so fine and white. And it doesn’t look overcrowded at all. Btw, you look gorgeous and sexy on your bikini. 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The sea plane was a while lot of fun Bea but we look the boat this time. Budget lol! This beach is stunning and although quiet when we visited it can get crowded in the summer!
Michi says
I haven’t experienced riding on a sea plane, I’m not sure if it would be a scary or exciting ride for me. Nice to know that you have revisited this place. The Whitehaven beach really looks nice and very peaceful. Our family loves visiting beaches and we’re lucky that we have a lot in the Philippines.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
From what I have seen the beaches are stunning in The Philippines ? We didn’t do the sea plane this trip but I have in the past and it’s a great way to get there quickly.
Stargazer says
I have relatives who are currently living in Queensland and they also said that it’s famous of their lovely beaches. Your pictures prove that they are indeed beautiful. Maybe if you’re not the cloudy type of person when it comes to beaches, summer is a great time to do the visit. In my case, I’d like it when Mr. Sun won’t peek during my stay at the beach. lol
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Summer is great but you have to be careful about stingers that far north and it also gets very crowded. Even though we had unpredictable winter weather it was still a great day ?
Joanna says
What a gorgeous place to have your honeymoon and your vows renewed! I have never seen sand so white before and it contrasts perfectly with that gorgeous blue water. I don’t mind wind, I live in a very windy area so that wouldn’t bother me. Not with that beautiful scenery anyway 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It truly is a beautiful beach. It can get very busy but we were lucky to have only a few people there at the same time as us ?
Bernadette Angelie Pangilinan says
Oh my gosh! That beach look so pretty! It looks super clean too! Those powdery looking white sand reminds me of Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines. The only thing is the WhiteHaven Beach looks much cleaner! There’s a lot of seaweeds in the shores of Panglao Island 🙁
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I haven’t been to Philippines but I have seen lots of pics (it’s on my list) and it does look similar. No seaweed here though ?
Samantha says
That’s so cute that you went back to renew your vows! Was it the same or better as you remembered it?
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Ive been four times now Samantha. Once in ’93 on our honeymoon, once in ’03 to renew of vies for our tenth anniversary, the in around ’05 with my cousin who was visiting for the UK and of course this trip in 2016. I’m very happy to say on each visit Whitehaven has been exactly the same and is purposely being preserved so that it stays just as perfect for generations to come ?
Amae guerrero says
This is an amazing place. There’s not much people to distract you. I believe it’s good for people looking for relaxation. I hope to get there soon!
Xo,
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
We we’re lucky on the day Amae as it can get quite busy. I think the weather probably put some people off but it was the middle of winter so that would explain the lack of people. I hope you get there too!
Mommy Queenelizabeth says
Wow! Makes me want to visit the beach now! 🙂 The white sand is really white. And i think its pure and powdery? The water is crystal blue and i think i would love to spend an entire month lounging along the shores with my beloved.. romantic place, it is! 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The sand is indeed perfectly pure white and powdery. Unfortunately if you wanna stay here you have to camp and there is no accommodation in the Island. It would be worth it for that beach!
Thelittlelai: Beyond limits says
I’m not actually that big fan of the beach, but whenever I get the chance I always love the feeling of being at the beach. That white sand beach is very beautiful, I like the trees that has a lot of roots on it appearing it to be so magical. The waves as it rolls on the white sand is perfectly caught.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The Hubs is a bit the same but I could guarantee you would love this beach. It truly is beautiful!
Isabel says
Congratulation on your vow renewal. Looks like the perfect place to do it. Not only because it is beautiful but because of your memories there! Thanks for linking up :
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Isabel. It will almost time to do it avian for our 25th in 2018!
Jen says
These photos are killing me with wanderlust…such a stunning beach!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Definitely one of my favourites Jen! A must visit when in the Whitsundays. ☀️
Jenna says
Those white beaches are just incredible!!
Jenna from www.visionsofvogue.com
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
They are! We are blessed in Australia to have some of the best beaches in the world ☀️?
Camille says
What a glorious trip! I had no idea how gorgeous it was there!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Camille. The effort to get there is worth it!
Kassie says
Wow that water is so blue and the sand looks amazing! I’m sure the views from the seaplane were worth the $220 last time ?
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Yes Kassie they were. Hill Inlet from the air is spectacular!
Lauren says
Awwww man! Now all I can think of is going to the beach. Looks so dreamy!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
This is one of the best Lauren!