Settle in on the mainland and explore each day. Stay in Airlie Beach for lively nights and marina views, in Collinsville for country charm, or in Bowen for long beaches and a classic seaside pace. Regular tour departures keep the reef within easy reach, no matter where you choose to land.
Should you stay on the mainland or an island? Which mainland town best matches your travel style? How convenient is it to start day tours from accommodations on the mainland? Whatever you need to know about choosing your mainland base in The Whitsundays, we've got the answers. Scroll down further for more in-depth local knowledge.
Staying on the mainland offers flexibility, variety, and value. Base yourself in Airlie Beach for easy access to multiple-day tours, island hopping, and reef trips without committing to one island resort. The mainland provides diverse dining options, nightlife, shopping, and the lagoon all within walking distance. You'll find a wider range of accommodation choices across all budgets, from holiday parks to luxury resorts. Self-catering apartments are ideal for families and those staying for an extended period. Additionally, you can explore hinterland attractions, such as Cedar Creek Falls and Conway National Park, between water adventures.
Staying on the mainland offers flexibility, variety, and value. Base yourself in Airlie Beach for easy access to multiple-day tours, island hopping, and reef trips without committing to one island resort. The mainland provides diverse dining options, nightlife, shopping, and the lagoon all within walking distance. You'll find a wider range of accommodation choices across all budgets, from holiday parks to luxury resorts. Self-catering apartments are ideal for families and those staying for an extended period. Additionally, you can explore hinterland attractions, such as Cedar Creek Falls and Conway National Park, between water adventures.
Airlie Beach: The lively hub with a lagoon, restaurants, bars, nightlife, and walking distance to everything. Ideal for first-timers and those seeking a social atmosphere.
Bowen: Quieter coastal pace with long beaches and family-friendly stays. Perfect for relaxed beachside holidays.
Proserpine: The region's original settlement and farming heart. Explore local history at the museum before heading to Lake Proserpine or the coast.
Collinsville: Inland hinterland base offering genuine country hospitality. Best for those exploring the wider region by caravan or car.
Airlie Beach: The lively hub with a lagoon, restaurants, bars, nightlife, and walking distance to everything. Ideal for first-timers and those seeking a social atmosphere.
Bowen: Quieter coastal pace with long beaches and family-friendly stays. Perfect for relaxed beachside holidays.
Proserpine: The region's original settlement and farming heart. Explore local history at the museum before heading to Lake Proserpine or the coast.
Collinsville: Inland hinterland base offering genuine country hospitality. Best for those exploring the wider region by caravan or car.
Settle in on shore, set out for sea.
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