Whitsundays, Queensland

Its islands are surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, considered to be one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

There are two main attractions that can be found in Whitsundays, one of which is the Great Barrier Reef which is the largest coral reef system in the world. It sits beside a beautiful rainforest which provides a diversity unlike no other. The waters of the reef also house the most abundant marine life. On the other hand, Airlie Beach, the hub of the region, is the cosmopolitan region of the place which exudes a very tropical ambience. These two spectacular beauties draw in millions of visitors from all over each year.

Only eight of the 74 islands of Whitsundays is inhabited and developed into beautiful resorts and tourist attractions. Hamilton Island, for instance, is the most heavily developed with its high rise hotels and international airport. Parasailing, cruising, scuba diving and helicopter flight facilities are available, as well as shopping areas, squash courts, take-away shops and a local supermarket. While Daydream Island is perfect for family get-aways, the Lindeman Islands are made mostly of national parks and exudes tranquillity and sophistication that adults would surely love. Long Island has one of the prettiest tropical wilderness and 2000 acres of National Park and stunning tropical beaches. The lush foliage and sandy bays of Orpheus, the spectacular marine life in Great Keppel, the mystical atmosphere exuded by Dunk, and the unbroken breath taking beaches in Whitsunday, are all well visited.

Aside from the wondrous natural offerings in the Whitsunday Islands, it also has an array of exciting annual events to make one's vacation even more interesting. These events range from sporting events to food fairs, to cultural events that appeal to people of all ages. To name a few: the Powerade Outrigger Cup, the oldest, largest and richest outrigger canoe competition is held in Hamilton Island; the Hahn Premium Race, Australia's largest yachting event offshore; the Fantasea Reef Festival in celebration of the most amazing Great Barrier Reef. Tourists mostly schedule their trips to coincide with these spectacular events.

Whether one chooses to scuba dive, or bush walk in one of the splendid walking trails, or sail from one island to another, there are a myriad of ways by which tourists and visitors can experience the richness of Whitsundays. There are also island and coastal accommodation options that range from camp site in most of the National Parks to the most luxurious results which cater to honeymooners and families in search of romance and relaxing seclusion. Also available are quality motels and apartments for budget holidays.

There are two major shopping areas in mainland Whitsundays: the Whitsunday Shopping Centre in Cannonvale and the Main Street of Airlie Beach. These shopping areas showcase the well-loved products of the region as well as the local art and crafts made by the talents in the area. There are a large range of food shops, restaurants and cafes spread around the islands from world class cuisines to local delicacies.

Experience the tranquillity of the Whitsundays and enjoy all that is on offer with cheap Whitsundays accommodation available at Cheap Holiday Accommodation. We have accommodation available in Hamilton Island & Airlie Beach.