Whitehaven Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world — a 7 km stretch of pure white silica sand on Whitsunday Island within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Its iconic Hill Inlet swirls, turquoise waters, and pristine setting make it the crown jewel of the Whitsundays.
Barrier Reef Australia has been helping travellers explore Whitehaven Beach and the Great Barrier Reef for more than 20 years. This guide combines insider knowledge, practical visitor tips, and links to our most popular Whitehaven Beach blogs, so you can plan with confidence and discover Whitehaven the right way.
Why Whitehaven Beach Is So Famous
• 98% pure silica sand: Brilliant white, cool underfoot, and unique in Australia.
• Hill Inlet: The swirling sand and turquoise water formations that change with the tides.
• Protected paradise: Located in a national park, with no resorts or built facilities.
Related Reading: Is Whitehaven Beach Worth Visiting?
With so many beaches in Australia, what makes Whitehaven stand out? Discover why it’s ranked one of the world’s best in our blog. Read More → Is it worthwhile going to Whitehaven Beach?
North vs South Whitehaven Beach
• North Whitehaven: Accessed via Tongue Bay, with a short walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. Betty’s Beach lies below.
• South Whitehaven: The main landing zone for most tours, with wide sandy stretches and calm waters.
Related Reading: What’s the Difference Between North and South Whitehaven Beach?
Whitehaven isn’t the same from end to end. Learn the key differences between North and South so you know where to go. Read More → What is the difference between North and South Whitehaven Beach?
Hill Inlet: The Swirling Sands
Hill Inlet is one of Australia’s most photographed sights. The lookout above Tongue Bay is the classic vantage point. At mid-tide, the swirls are their most dramatic. Betty’s Beach below is a quieter cove.
Related Reading: Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet by Helicopter
Some views you can’t beat from the air. Discover why Hill Inlet is at its most dramatic on a helicopter flight. Read More → Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Helicopter Tours | Scenic Flights & Landings
Facilities at Whitehaven Beach
• No cafes, shops, or permanent structures.
• Composting toilets only at basic camping zones.
• Limited shade — bring hats, water, and sunscreen.
• Camping permitted with permits, but bring all supplies.
Related Reading: Why Visit Whitehaven Beach
Practical advice on what to expect and how to prepare for your trip. [Read More → What is so special about Whitehaven Beach?
How to Get to Whitehaven Beach
Airlie Beach: Mainland hub for day tours, overnight sailing, and flights.
• Hamilton Island: Shorter transfers, ideal for resort guests.
• Shute Harbour / Coral Sea Marina: Private yacht charter departures.
• Proserpine Airport & Hamilton Island Airport: Scenic flight and helicopter departures.
Related Reading: Best Ways to See Whitehaven Beach
Boat, flight, or yacht? We compare all the ways to get to Whitehaven Beach in our expert guide. Read More → The best ways to see Whitehaven Beach.
Types of Whitehaven Beach Tours
Half-Day Tours: 3–4 hours, usually South Whitehaven only.
• Full-Day Tours: 7–8 hours, South Whitehaven + Hill Inlet + snorkelling.
• Overnight Sailing: 2–3 nights, sunrise/sunset at Whitehaven.
• Luxury Yacht Charters: Flexible, private crew, customised itineraries.
• Scenic Flights & Helicopters: 30–90 minutes, aerial views, optional landings.
Related Reading: Whitehaven Beach Tours with Hill Inlet
Not every tour includes Hill Inlet. Find out which ones guarantee the famous lookout experience. Read More → How to visit Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach the Complete guide.
Whitehaven Beach Tour Comparison
How Much Do Whitehaven Beach Tours Cost?
• Half-Day: $112–$1,400 per person.
• Full-Day: $229–$4,000 per person.
• Overnight - Mutli Night Sailing: $479–$1,445 per person.
• Luxury Yacht Charters: $10,700+ per day (whole vessel).
• Scenic Flights: $330–$1,400 per person.
• Helicopter Tours with Landing: $520–$1,400 per person.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Whitehaven Beach?
• Summer (Nov–Mar): Warm seas, coral spawning, fewer crowds. Cruise ships also visit — book early.
• Autumn (Apr–May): Mild, clear conditions, relaxed atmosphere.
• Winter (Jun–Sep): Peak season, whale sightings, school holidays.
• Spring (Oct): Warm weather, active marine life, moderate crowds.
Fitness Levels
• South Whitehaven: No fitness required.
• Hill Inlet Lookout: 700 m, 10–15 mins, moderate incline.
• South Lookout Walk: 1 km, moderate fitness.
• Chance Bay Track: 3.6 km one way, good fitness required.
Insider Tips
- Bring sunscreen, water, and reef-safe swimwear.
- Book early during school holidays and cruise ship visits.
- Travel in summer for fewer crowds and coral spawning.
- Chinese New Year – Very busy in February
- Respect Marine Park rules — Whitehaven Beach is protected.
Final Word
Whitehaven Beach is more than a postcard-perfect paradise — it’s a living, changing landscape. With over two decades of expertise, Barrier Reef Australia offers the most trusted tours to Whitehaven Beach.
Explore our full list of Whitehaven Beach Tours here:
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