Located on Whitsunday Island in Queensland, Australia, Whitehaven Beach is a world-famous coastal stretch reachable by boat, seaplane, or helicopter. You can easily depart from nearby Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island to reach these shores. Set directly across from Stockyard Beach on Haslewood Island, the destination offers an unforgettable tropical escape centered around its iconic, untouched coastal setting and bright turquoise waters that stretch along the scenic island coastline.
Stretching seven kilometres in length, the beach is renowned for its remarkable sand made of 98 percent pure silica. This ultra-fine white sand does not retain heat from direct sunlight, allowing you to walk barefoot comfortably even on a hot day. Millions of years of prevailing ocean currents brought this unique sand to the island, creating a striking visual contrast against the vivid turquoise sea that draws sightseers, swimmers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Whether you want to take a refreshing swim, enjoy a relaxed BBQ lunch, or embark on an extended outdoor journey, Whitehaven Beach accommodates diverse travelers. Campers can stay overnight by booking National Parks facilities, while walkers can explore tracks connecting to Tongue Point. Its pristine conditions have earned accolades including Queensland's Cleanest Beach and top eco-friendly honors, making it an idyllic spot for eco-conscious visitors, casual day-trippers, and open-water swimmers.
01 Highlights & things to do
What makes this stretch of coast worth the trip — from the water to the walks, wildlife and the views.
Compiled from Wikipedia · conditions vary with weather, tides and the season.
Beach map & the area
The free OpenStreetMap layer below shows the beach and its surroundings — the coastline, access roads, nearby towns and where to park. Zoom in for detail, or open it live in a full map.
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL, free).
02 Getting there
| Option | Detail |
|---|---|
| Boat | Accessible by boat from Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island. |
| Seaplane | Accessible by seaplane flights departing from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island. |
| Helicopter | Transfer by helicopter directly to the island from Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach. |
Getting there · Last updated: 2026-09-12 · always double-check access & ferries
03 Nearby & around
Other beaches, coves, towns and sights within easy reach — worth stringing together into a coastal day.
Good to know
- The fine silica sand can damage electronic devices like cameras and mobile phones.
- You can use the fine silica sand to polish tarnished jewellery.
- Camping requires booking official National Parks camp facilities in advance.
- The sand retains very little heat, keeping it comfortable for barefoot walking even in hot weather.