Officially known as the Cumberland Group, it’s commonly accepted that the Whitsundays region encompasses the mainland between Mackay in the south and Bowen in the north, including the islands between Brampton Island in the southeast and Gloucester Island in the northwest, as well as the adjacent outer reef. Often touted as 74 islands, according to David Colfelt, author of The Whitsundays Book, and the cruisers Bible, 100 Magic Miles, there are actually 150 islands, islets and rocks. But no matter – whatever the true number, there’s no disputing the Whitsundays region is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations.

On a similar latitude to Fiji, the Whitsundays are just north of the Tropic of Capricorn and boast a subtropical climate. Cooling southeast trade winds dominate between April and October, the best time to visit, and ease off between November and March, when it can be steamy and wet. The outer reef provides a barrier from Coral Sea swells, so most beaches are calm with little wave action – which won’t interest surfers, but will delight boaters and divers.

Island and mainland accommodation options are broad, including a very special experience that involves sleeping right on the outer reef itself. Cruise options are extensive and, ranging from one to five nights, are an alternative to hotels that also lets you visit a different island or reef each day. But if you prefer to keep your feet on terra firma, options range from budget properties through to active family-style outfits, plus a few high-end luxury resorts catering to the well heeled.

The choices for exploring the islands are limited only by time and budget. You could paddle your way around Hamilton Island in a sea kayak, take a day trip to famous Whitehaven Beach or the fascinating outer reef. How about skippering a bareboat yacht down Whitsunday Passage, just as Captain James Cook did? For something a little less tactile, find a spot on the deck of a fully crewed yacht and sip champagne while the islands (and, between July and September, the Humpback Whales) slip past. Snorkelling, diving and swimming are the main reason for anchoring at one of the choice spots like Blue Pearl Bay, Butterfly Bay or Hardy Reef, but if coral and underwater wildlife don’t float your boat, there are plenty of walking trails that allow visitors to delve deep into the forests. There’s even a cave containing Aboriginal art on Whitsunday Island, and if you visit Nara Inlet between January and March you may be lucky enough to splash around in a waterfall.

If boating’s really not your thing, a charter flight to the islands or the outer reef might well be. Departing from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island, there’s something decadently romantic about emerging barefoot from a helicopter or seaplane onto a dazzling white beach with a picnic basket full of gourmet treats and champagne. From the air, it’s possible to gain some perspective on the vast scope of the Great Barrier Reef. A sunny day will highlight the telltale turquoise colours of shallow water that contrast sharply against the midnight blue of the deep.

The Whitsundays 

Which part of the Marine Park is best for you?