2020. What a year, right?! We are sure that almost everyone (in one way or another) is ready to wipe the slate clean, open up a fresh calendar and jump into the new year. We are looking forward to a 2021 filled with sunshine, tropical cocktails and days spent exploring the Whitsundays…Sound good? Why not join us!
If you’re currently planning your year ahead or are just well overdue for a holiday, we have put together 21 reasons to visit WAHI in 2021 (incase the beautiful beaches, incredible landscapes and awesome year-round weather isn’t convincing enough).
Image credit: @kimmyslovesandtravels
1. Tropical Paradise
Spent 2020 dreaming of heading overseas in search of tropical bliss? Sometimes us Aussies forget that we have plenty of island paradise waiting for us right here in our own backyard. Don’t just take our word for it either, the Whitsundays region has topped the Conde Nast Traveler awards of best islands in Australia & the South Pacific multiple times. This means that the Whitsundays has beaten the likes of Fiji, Tahiti and Bora Bora.
2. Beautiful One Day, Perfect the Next
Talking about tropical... The Whitsundays experiences a beautiful sub-tropical climate. What does that mean, you say? It means hot summers, warm winters and bright spring and autumn days. In other words, you can expect beautiful weather no matter what time of the year you choose to visit us.
Image credit: @ngtraveladventures
3. The Great Barrier Reef
As the world’s largest coral reef and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, this one sells itself. The Whitsundays are located right in the heart of the reef, making it the perfect spot to base yourself to head out on one of the numerous tours and activities on offer. Whether you see the reef by snorkel, scuba, boat, seaplane or helicopter, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
4. The White Sands of Whitehaven Beach
If you have ever dreamt of stepping right into a postcard, this one's for you! Whitehaven Beach has been voted numerous times as one of Australia’s best beaches and for good reason too. Seven kilometres of 98.9% silica sand? Check. Swirling turquoise water? Check. Perfect spot to spend laying on the beach or taking a dip? Double check.
Image credit: @jamesvodicka
5. Blue Azure Water
Many people who visit us here at WAHI comment on the incredibly blue water found in the Whitsundays. Yes, it really is that blue in real life. The striking aquamarine colour is caused by very fine sediment that is suspended in the water, scattering sunlight and creating the beautiful blue shade of water that makes the region so famous.
6. Family Friendly Fun
On the island you can find activities to suit the entire family—no matter how big or small, young or old! In search of some much deserved quiet time? The island has a kids club where you can book the little ones in, so you can get a chance to relax while the kids still get to experience a day jam-packed with activities.
7. Walking Trails
Around every corner of the island you can find a beautiful beach or landscape waiting to be explored. One of our favourite ways to discover all of the island’s natural beauty is to head out on one of the many walking trails. It’s hard to pick a favourite, but we highly recommend setting an early alarm and walking up Passage Peak to experience the sunrise from the highest point on the island.
Image credit: @elinnavemark
8. Golf on Dent Island
Whether you’re a golf fanatic or just looking to have a swing at it, there is something to suit every age and ability. For those looking for the whole experience, Hamilton Island Golf Club is situated right next door on its very own Dent Island. With sweeping views of the Coral Sea, a stunning contemporary Clubhouse and a challenging 18-hole championship course designed to suit the natural landscape, you will be in golfing heaven.
9. Relax and Unwind
If you are in need of some serious relaxation after what we are sure was a stressful 2020, WAHI is the perfect place to be. Relax by the beach, read a book by the WAHI pool or if you are feeling indulgent, head to the island’s spa wumurdaylin.
10. The Marine life
Both the island and the wider Whitsundays region is an aquatic playground. With all kinds of treasures to be found just below the surface, there is no better time to dive in!
11. Sail Into the New Year
Perfectly situated on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef and surrounded by the calm and protected waters of the Whitsundays, the island is nothing short of a sailor’s paradise. Head out on one of the many sailing or boat tours on offer. Or if you are looking for something extra special, every August spectators and yachties from all around the globe sail to Hamilton Island for the island’s very own Race Week.
12. World Class Dining
No incredible holiday would be complete without incredible food and drinks to top it off. From relaxed family-friendly dining to world-class food and wine, you certainly won’t go hungry.
13. Self Contained Convenience
If you would rather brush up on your cooking skills or are looking for ways to stretch your budget further, why not cook up a storm in your WAHI kitchen? One of the biggest perks of staying at WAHI is the convenience of a self-contained apartment which has everything you need to prepare a feast.
14. It’s Easy to Get To
On the subject of convenience, did we mention how easy it is to get to us here at WAHI? Jetstar, Virgin and QANTAS offer direct flights to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns. Alternatively, ferry services are available from Shute Harbour and Port of Airlie. Once you arrive you will be met by a complimentary coach service that will take you directly to WAHI.
Image credit: @a.lil.adventure
15. Make Some Furry Friends
Looking for a unique experience that the whole family will love? At Hamilton Island Wildlife you can get up close and personal to all kinds of iconic Australian Wildlife. How’s that for an experience the kids will never forget!
16. Something for Everyone
One of the best parts about heading to WAHI is that there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. There is an endless list of activities to do, places to explore and things to see!
17. Explore Your Backyard
Always been meaning to go see more of our incredible country? What better time than 2021 to finally tick some items off your Aussie bucket list. Of course, we think the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier reef should be at the top of your list. Luckily, WAHI is the perfect spot to base yourself to then head out and explore the wonders of the Whitsundays.
Image credit: @marlz_lefrench
18. Golf Buggies
Getting around the island is easy! There are plenty of walking paths, complimentary buses, as well as one of the most iconic parts about heading to WAHI—the famous golf buggies you can find scattered around the island.
19. Spend Days Poolside
In our opinion, it doesn’t get much better than relaxing poolside at WAHI’s lagoon pool. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, you can sit back and relax in a tranquil, tropical paradise. After a dip in the pool, enjoy the sun lounges or relax in the Spa.
20. Jump in!
Exploring and enjoying the water is what a trip to WAHI is all about. Snorkel or dive around the reef, pick up some speed on a Jet Ski or slow it down and kayak in search of a sea turtle.
Image credit: @ourwonderlustlife
21. To #StayWAHI
Of course, we couldn’t help but save the best for last. After a long day spent exploring the Whitsundays there is no better place to be than to sit out on your WAHI balcony and take in the incredible sweeping views of the Whitsundays. There is nothing else quite like it.
Ready to explore our beautiful backyard? If you are in need of an island retreat, you can book your stay at WAHI here. We look forward to giving you a WAHI welcome on arrival!
