Experience Our Natural Icons

The Whitsundays is home to some of the world’s most striking natural wonders. Shaped not by people, but by time, tide and the elements. From the swirling silica sands of Whitehaven Beach to the one-of-a-kind Heart Reef, every corner is a reminder of nature’s quiet brilliance.

These iconic natural sites are enhanced and made accessible by our wide range of eco-certified tours, enabling you to experience the wonders of The Whitsundays while supporting the reef restoration and sustainability projects of these companies.

Experience

GBR Snorkelling
Outer Reef
Snorkelling People Snorkelling

Travelling To The Outer Reef

Outer reef trips typically run as full-day experiences, with coach transfers, a boat journey to a reef pontoon or reef site, several hours for activities, and a return in the late afternoon. From Airlie Beach, the journey normally takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the experience and the vessel.

Heart Reef
Whitsunday Islands Top Down Heart Pontoon
Heart Pontoon

Snorkelling Diving at Heart Reef

Heart Reef itself is protected and cannot be accessed for snorkelling or diving. In-water experiences take place at nearby lagoons and reef pontoons within Hardy Reef, where snorkelling and diving are permitted. Most Heart Reef scenic flight tours combine the aerial view with snorkelling stops at these approved sites.

Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach Person Sitting
Hill Inlet & Whitehaven Beach

Visiting Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach

Hill Inlet sits at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach and most day tours include stops at both the lookout and the beach. The lookout offers views of the swirling sand patterns where tide and current mix inlet waters with the surrounding bay. Tours depart from Airlie Beach or the Islands, with options ranging from fast boats to leisurely sailing, and typically include beach time, snorkelling, and lunch.

Experience Mother Nature's Greatest Hits.

The Whitsundays

Iconic from every angle

Explore some of nature’s most breathtaking creations. From the swirling sands of Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach to the colourful coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef, The Whitsundays is home to icons that inspire and spark adventure.

NECI Red Cat Adventures 16
NECI Red Cat Adventures 04
NECI Red Cat Adventures 39
NECI Explore Group 24
Heart Pontoon Aerial
Whitehaven Swimming 2
Hill Inlet Lookout
The Great Barrier Reef, The Whitsundays
NECI Ocean Rafting 24