Airlie Beach is a tropical lovers paradise. If you’re looking to escape a bitter cold winter, heading to Airlie Beach is your best bet. This tropical oasis has everything you need for a summer getaway including water activities, nature walks and some splendid seafood hotspots. Acting as the gateway to the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a popular resting place for both locals and tourists to call home. Take a day trip to the stunning Whitehaven Beach and then rest assured knowing that you will come back to a quaint coastal town perfect to gather up your energy for the next day.
I visited Airlie Beach to check out how the laidback locals of this town live so if you want the insiders scoop on the best spots to visit for your next trip to Airlie Beach, then keep reading!
HOW TO GET TO AIRLIE BEACH
The easiest way to head to Airlie Beach is to take a flight into Proserpine Airport, and I found that booking bus transfers before I arrived was the quickest way to get to Airlie Beach. This way, you can really let yourself take in your surroundings as you drive further inland passing sugarcane fields, small towns and coastal views that will take your breath away. It’s a short half an hour drive from the airport and you really can’t get lost as everything is within an easy walking distance on Main Street.
FOOD
You have quite a few options when it comes to eating in Airlie Beach but there are definitely a few winners that caught my eye. The first being The Deck Restaurant and Bar which is located in the heart of the Main street in town. This restaurant was bustling when I popped in for a late lunch after a morning full of activities, but the atmosphere remained cool and relaxed. What initially enticed me was the scents wafting from the wood-fired pizza oven while walking past on my first day here. I recommend the Antipasti pizza which is served on a garlic and olive oil base, some other standouts pizzas here are the North African vegetarian and the Prawn & Chorizo which all smelt and looked divine.
Another iconic Airlie Beach staple for the locals is Shucks Oyster and Champagne Bar, you’ll find this venue neatly hidden away save for some twinkle lights in front of the bar. The oysters are prepared fresh to order and I suggest pairing it with a glass of bubbles because why not, you’re on holiday! You can choose how you’d like your oysters prepared; either natural or cooked with your choice of toppings ranging from the classic Kilpatrick to some other unique flavours such as fresh mango with lime and chilli dressing.
ACTIVITIES
Every town that has a rainforest should have their own waterpark where you can cool off during the more humid days, right? Well, the Airlie Beach Lagoon is the reprieve you’ll be looking for. It has become an iconic landmark in the area smack right in the centre of Airlie Beach, so much so that it is also frequently visited by locals too. Whether you want to sunbathe, let the kids splash around, or even just dip your feet in the water, there is an experience for everyone. It’s a great alternative to heading to the beach as it is a stinger-free environment with spacious grassy fields that surround the lagoon, perfect for a little relaxation time.
Once you’re done relaxing, get your walking shoes on and head to the Conway National Park where you will discover a quiet world of wonder, with the distinct sounds of tropical birds adding to the stunning scenery that surrounds you. The panoramic views found on the different hiking trails are Instagram worthy and you’ll have the chance to really challenge yourself should you please, as there are various levels of hikes that you can do. The drive to the national park through Proserpine is also worth a mention as you pass through fields upon fields of sugar canes, the area’s main agricultural product.
Head to Airlie Beach for a perfect tropical holiday! Check out the Airlie Beach Tour!
