Shopping Culture Rejuvenation Children

A holiday can be as much about escape and relaxation as new experiences.

In the Whitsundays you are in the right place to soothe your body and soul. Removed from the normal demands in your life, you've finally got time!

Find the divine little top, vase, painting, earrings, knick knack or sarong you could never quite locate at home. One advantage of shopping in the Whitsundays is that, while the shops include those you would expect, the area also attracts very creative people and the result is a unique shopping experience.

Airlie Beach: Just walk the length of both sides of the main street but don't forget the shops off-street, in the arcades and on The Esplanade along the beachfront.

Cannonvale:  don't miss the two shopping centres, one in Cannonvale itself, just beyond the turn-off to Abel Point Marina, and the other about 2 kms further along.  You'll find the standard boutiques and other outlets, but also some locally owned and operated surprises that will make you glad you made the effort. Don't miss Shingley Beach either.

Proserpine:  don't think a small country town can possibly be a shoppers' heaven?  Don't bet on it!  If you don't have your own transport, catch a bus or take a taxi and go to Proserpine.  Don't miss out on some of the most unique shops in Australia.  Look along the main street and down Dobbins Lane.

Despite the small local population, the opportunities for some relaxing diversions exist.

In Proserpine is a fine art and quilting gallery with some magnificent wall hangings. The Proserpine Entertainment Centre stages live shows and cinema and Bowen also has a cinema. A new cinema is expected to open in Airlie Beach by 2009.

On holidays you may need a little help to relax and now you certainly have the time. Mainland therapists will help you unwind with whatever you need: massage, facial, body pack, wax, you name it. 

Local spas and therapists may offer a full range of treatments but are not necessarily expensive.

Two resort islands also have spas to die for. At serene Peppers Palm Bay is an Endota spa. At beautiful Daydream Island, the Rejuvenation spa is also an experience beyond mere words.

Endota Spa
Reflections Head & Body
Rejuvenation Spa

If you holiday with children, it is important for parents' relaxation process to know that the children are also having a great time.  Following is a list of some activities the kids will particularly enjoy:

• Cruise Whitsundays and Fantasea Cruises have special arrangements for children at their reef pontoons, including education, activities and observation facilities.

•  Island day visits under your own steam could be to almost any island but special mention should be made of Daydream Island where children are entranced by the swimming pools, the themed outdoor aquariums and the mini golf.  Hamilton also has vast entertainment for children including a zoo, a wildlife tour, good playgrounds, mini golf, go-karts, rides around the island in a hired buggy, non-powered water sports and, for older children, the wire flyer (flying fox).  South Molle has regular bird feeding and a swimming pool.

• Cruises include exciting sailing experiences and an ocean raft for older children who love the speed and beach games on Whitehaven Beach.

• Island resorts mostly have special kids' activities and clubs for booked guests.

• Whitsunday Coast opportunities include the safe swimming, water sports and playground at the lagoon, a crocodile spotting tours, and for children over 12 years, the parasailing at Coral Sea Resort. Bowen offer ten-pin bowling and kite flying on the beach (take your own kite), Dingo Beach has beach combing and fishing. Hire a bicycle for a spin along the Bicentennial Walkway, take them to Fun to Bead to make their own jewellery then treat them to ice cream at a child-friendly eatery.

• At mealtime, let the kids have a swim at a resort pool while you enjoy a cool drink, then take them to Cactus Jack's or Hogs Breath Cafe for a special dinner; most local restaurants also welcome children, many have children's menus and some provide high chairs.

• When it's grown-up time, relax in the knowledge that some excellent, qualified babysitters are locally available.

Bicycle Hire, click here
    Bowen Tourism
    Cruise Whitsundays
    Daydream Island
    Fantasea Cruises
    Hamilton
    Lagoon, click here
    VIP Kids, click here

For a full list of services and business on the Whitsunday Coast, click here