In the heart of Queensland's Great Barrier Reef lie the Whitsundays, 74 islands floating like jewels in the tropical warm waters of the Coral Sea. Discovering the Great Barrier Reef is one of life's must-dos and it's easily accessible from Queensland’s mainland coast at Airlie Beach or directly from the islands. It is a cosmopolitan and vibrant town filled with palm-fringed beaches, waterfront parks and alfresco dining restaurants.

The best way to fully explore this lovely region is from the bow of a sailboat…cruise through the islands and drop anchor for a quick snorkel and fall asleep at night to the gentle rocking of the waves under a canopy of stars. Spend the day exploring the pure white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet from one of the world's most exquisite lookouts, or enjoy the views of the reef from the cockpit of a seaplane. Paddle a sea kayak gracefully through the water, follow bushwalking trails overlooking the Coral Sea or simply relax with a cocktail by the pool.

Sail in sheltered waters:  There’s no better place to sail than the Whitsundays, sheltered from the open ocean by the Great Barrier Reef and laden with frequent, secluded anchorages. Be your own skipper or charter a crew.

Dive down to the coral:  The clear, warm waters of the Whitsundays invite divers from around the world. Great visibility and abundant marine life await! Coral gardens lace nearly every Whitsunday island, and it’s also easy to take a boat to the Great Barrier Reef itself. Dive sites are dotted up and down the reef and qualified instructors will guide you through an encounter with tranquil marine life. Day and extended dive trips are available to make the most of your coral adventure. The Great Barrier Reef is a scuba diver's paradise. Queensland's warm subtropical climate is perfect for year-round diving and the water is clearer than crystal. Introductory dives and lessons are readily available along the length of the reef.

The world's best beaches:  Recognised as one of the world’s best beaches, Whitehaven Beach is found on Whitsunday Island. Perfect for swimming, its pure white silica sands slope to clear, warm blue water, mostly shallow and calm.

Discover tropical national parks:  The region is a bounty of national parks, and many invite trekking and camping. Three make a backdrop to Airlie Beach, and many of the Whitsunday islands are entirely national parks. Others contain protected green chunks surrounding idyllic resorts.

Marooned happiness:  The seven Whitsunday resort islands offer lodgings from budget to luxury. Find care-free days and a rich diversity of fun parasailing, swimming, tanning, fishing, partying, bush-walking, diving, eating, sleeping, coral viewing - a true escape.