Your Family Escape.

Local bus services run along the mainland corridor through Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Pocket and Shute Harbour. Scheduled ferries connect the mainland with Hamilton Island, while Daydream Island access is subject to current day-guest rules. Hamilton Island is car-free, so you can walk, use the complimentary island shuttle or hire a golf buggy. Check current island access, ferry and bus timetables, tour transfers and any child-restraint requirements before travel. A hire car is most useful for mainland day trips.

Hamilton Island can be visited on scheduled passenger services from the mainland. Daydream Island day access is currently available through a Daydream Island Escape package rather than a standard day-guest ferry ticket. Access to other islands generally requires a tour, accommodation transfer, water taxi, private charter or a private vessel where access is permitted. Check current day-visitor rules and timetables before you travel.

Free mainland options include the Airlie Beach Lagoon, foreshore parks, playgrounds, beaches, lookouts and the Bicentennial Boardwalk. The lagoon is open to everyone and safe from marine stingers year-round, with lifeguard hours published by Whitsunday Regional Council. Ferries, island day trips, reef tours, scenic flights and most organised activities are paid. Check current prices, child age bands, infant policies and inclusions with the operator before booking.

School holiday dates change each year and can vary between states and schools, so check your school calendar before choosing dates. Accommodation, ferry seats and popular family tours can fill early during holiday periods. Book key activities as soon as your travel dates are set, then check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast and any marine warnings closer to departure.

Marine stingers can be present throughout the year in tropical Queensland waters, with higher risk typically from November to May. Follow local signs and crew instructions, and wear protective swimwear such as a full-body lycra suit or wetsuit when advised. Ask your operator what protective gear is supplied and whether children's sizes are available. The freshwater, chlorinated Airlie Beach Lagoon is safe from marine stingers year-round.

Pack sun-protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, broad-spectrum water-resistant SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen, refillable water bottles and any regular medication. Add closed shoes or reef shoes if your planned activities need them, plus a dry bag for water days. Ask each operator what snorkelling gear, protective swimwear and luggage allowance are included, as these vary. Pack any child-specific comfort or motion-sickness items recommended for your family.