AIRLIE BEACH FAQ`S
The easiest way to reach Airlie Beach is to fly to Brisbane which is 1 hour and 40 minutes from Proserpine Airport, which is also known as Whitsunday Coast Airport. There are buses, rental cars, taxis available and the journey takes around 40 minutes to reach Airlie Beach.
What types of transportation can I find at the airport?If you have not booked a private transfer through us then you have a few options for connecting to Airlie Beach from the Whitsunday Coast Airport.
Taxis are available at the airport and the journey takes around 40 minutes to reach Airlie Beach. Taxi stands are found outside the airport. The journey will cost around A$100.
Buses travel from the airport to Airlie Beach and the bus stops are located outside the main terminal. Tickets cost around A$15 per person for a one-way trip and can be purchased at the booth just inside the arrivals hall.
Rental cars from several international companies are available for rent at the airport. The rental car desk can be found inside the main terminal.
How do I get around the city using public transportation?The main form of public transportation in Airlie Beach is the bus that runs from Proserpine to Shute Harbour. The main bus station is found just minutes from the city center and close to the main beach. Whitsunday Transit is the bus company with timetables posted around town and found at most resorts, services run until 10:30 pm. Buses depart every 30-60 minutes from specific bus stops.
Should I rent a car in Airlie Beach?Renting a car while visiting Airlie Beach is a great option and allows visitors to fully appreciate the stunning area including the Whitsunday Coast. Cars are available to rent at the airport and from rental car companies in town. There are several fun road trips available in the region such as Airlie Beach to Cedar Creek Falls which is a 30-minute drive, Airlie Beach to Cape Gloucester a 1-hour drive, Airlie Beach to Proserpine is a 30-minute drive. Renting a car gives you the independence to travel around at your leisure
Another great option when visiting the Airlie Beach area is to rent a Campervan, which is a great way to get around and see the wonderful region. Traveling up and down the East Coast and seeing the best of Queensland coast and the sprawling countryside. Camping sites are abundant.
How do I call/hail a taxi?The main taxi rank found in Airlie Beach is located in the center of town. Taxis services are available 24 hours a day and the local taxi company is Australia Wide Taxis. You can find them at the taxi rank, outside the main attractions or call and order from your accommodation.
Is Airlie Beach a walking city?Airlie Beach is a fairly small location making it easy to cover on foot. The surfaces are flat and the scenic bicentennial boardwalk curves around the foreshore of Airlie Beach leading to Abell Point Marina and through Cannonvale Beach.
Can I ride a bike in Airlie Beach?Renting bicycles is an option to get around Airlie Beach, the flat layout of town makes a bike ride easy to reach the beach, shops, and restaurants. There are also options to rent motorized scooters with hiring places found near the beach.
Where can I catch the ferry in Airlie Beach?Ferries are available to connect visitors to the offshore islands such as Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, and Hayman Island. The ferries depart from the new Cruise Whitsundays Maritime Terminal located next to the Port of Airlie Marina. Hayman Island has its own ferry service that departs from Abel Point Marina. The Port of Airlie Marina is found at the southern end of Airlie Beach main street. Cruise Whitsundays offers the majority of ferry services in the region transferring guests day and night to Hamilton Island and Daydream Island.
Is Airlie Beach a dangerous city, is there anything I should be aware of?Airlie Beach is a remarkably safe destination to visit; just use caution when walking alone and be aware of your surroundings. The crime rate is relatively low and crimes against visitors are practically unheard of but petty theft such as pickpocketing and purse snatching is becoming more common in the built-up areas. Keep your wits about you and practice street smarts when out sightseeing.
What are some popular areas for shopping?Beach with souvenir shops, art galleries, and swim shops selling brands like Rip Curl and Billabong. Markets are held in the town on Saturday mornings on the esplanade featuring local vendors selling authentic jewelry, clothes, and crafts. There are convenience stores, supermarkets, and other shops found in town along with two shopping centers; Whitsunday Shopping Center and Centro Shopping Center can be found a few miles outside of town.
What is the best time to visit Airlie Beach?Airlie Beach features a subtropical climate and boasts warm sunny weather year-round. Average daily temperatures range from 73-86 degrees with the wet season, which occurs during the summer months November through May, which is also jellyfish season. Highs during the summer can reach up to the high 80s and into the 90s and very humid. The winter months from June through October feature comfortable temperatures in the mid-70s and are the perfect time to visit. October to May is the peak season for stingers when precaution and safety gear are recommended when diving, snorkeling, and swimming.
What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?The Australian dollar (AU$) is the official currency of Australia. Cash can be exchanged at many local banks, hotels, and the airport. ATMs are widespread in the city but may be limited in more remote towns and the Outback.
For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in Australia by clicking here Australia
Is there a popular time of year to visit the area? What is the food like?Airlie Beach has a range of award-winning restaurants to choose from including The Clipper Restaurant Bar, which is found at Coral Sea Resort, offering endless views of the beautiful Coral Sea and the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Another is the Fish D`Vine and the Rum Bar restaurant, another award-winning establishment serving the freshest seafood and offering up over 500 rums from around the world.
There are many great dining options available in the area with an abundance located along the main beach strip. There are Italian restaurants, pizzerias and plenty of fish and seafood eateries.
What is the nightlife like?There are great nightlife options found in Airlie Beach with many bars concentrated along the main road and beach bars with live music and a wide selection of tropical drinks and food. The Fish D`Vine and Rum Bar offer 500 rums from around the world. Denman Cellars Beer Cafe offers over 800 beers and ciders with views over the water at the Whitsunday Sailing Club. Airlie Beach is considered one of the best party towns in Australia with a great array of clubs and bars to party the night away.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?In the event of an emergency call 000 for police, fire, ambulance or 112 from a mobile phone.
Hospital:
Proserpine Hospital tel.61-4813-9400