| Where DId The Islands And Reef Come From? |
After the last Ice Age, the Coral Sea's level rose, converting the once volcanic, coastal mountains of the Whitsunday region into a unique, dense cluster of islands. Over time, with warm tropical currents and protection from rough seas afforded by the evolving Great Barrier Reef, 'fringing' coral reefs abounding with tropical marine life grew around the islands.
The first inhabitants were the Ngaro and Giru the Aboriginal people. Some remnants still exist on Hook Island and South Molle Island. The next significant arrival, in 1770. was Lt James Cook who was mapping and researching for Britain's government. On a northern course, he sailed into the Whitsunday Passage on Whit Sunday (June 3rd), 1770, discovering the Great Barrier Reef by running aground on a submerged reef!
Nowadays, over 800,000 visitors annually marvel at the natural wonders. Thanks to protective controls, what visitors see today is little changed from what the Aboriginals and Cook saw. The entire area to mainland high water mark is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Great Barrier Reef is World Heritage listed.
The islands range from tidal rocky outcrops to massive monoliths cloaked in a soft mantle of native hoop pine mixed in with lowland rainforest. Havens abound for pleasure craft, snorkelling, diving, fishing, bushwalking and camping. Beaches of coral sand - and almost pure white silica sand in the case of Whitehaven Beach - are backed by bushland where bird life fills the air. In the sea are dolphins, turtles, manta rays, tropical fish and corals. In late winter and early spring many humpbacked whales pass through on their great migration.
Resort developments are strictly limited to only seven of the seventy-four main islands. The diversity of the resorts ensures there's one suitable for everyone, regardless of income, age, language or special interest.
To go back-to-nature, thirty-odd campsites are maintained by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Permits are essential.
If you choose to base yourself on the mainland, or want to see more than your own island, dozens of boat or plane connections exist. Day guests and visiting yachts are welcomed at most resorts.
Hamilton Island Resort:airport, commercial marina, shopping village, restaurants, hotels, self catering apartments and holiday properties, as well as privately owned homes with unbelievable views. Innumerable island activities for adults and children.
Long Island Resort: value-for-money, water sports, bushwalking and more.
Whitsunday Wilderness Lodge (Long Island): basic accommodation, limited guests, diving, bushwalking and dinner under the stars.
Peppers Palm Bay (Long Island): Exclusive, very secluded, beach-side bungalows complete with balcony hammock, some hidden private homes, excellent cuisine, spa, kayak, fish, snorkel or bush walk, no newspapers or television.
South Molle Island: sandy beaches, meals included in tariffs, 9-hole golf course, tennis, archery, kids' club, spectacular bush walks.
Daydream Island Resort and Spa: closest to the mainland, four stars, nine suites and 300 mostly Ocean Balcony rooms, spa, beach-side open air cinema, themed mini golf course, outdoor aquariums, two pools, three life-size mermaid sculptures, water sports, excellent fringing reef, kids' club.
Hayman: five-star, multi award-winning swimming pools, cuisine, décor, architecture and gardens. Enjoyed by an A-list of guests from the world over. A fleet of power boats take you where you please.
Hook Island Resort: dormitory-style and camp sites, spectacular fringing reef and forest walks, excellent diving.
Club Med Lindeman Island: typical Club Med style, airstrip, kids' club.
For a map of the Whitsunday islands, click here
For advice & bookings, click here
For getting to the islands, click here
For island cruising options, click here
 Daydream Island Resort and Spa
Camping Whitsundays
Accom Hamilton (units & private houses)
Long Island Resorts
Peppers Palm Bay
South Molle Island
Island camp sites and permits
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Welcome to the Whitsundays is published by Media Rites Whitsunday. 