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Things to do in Airlie Beach: Your Guide to a Tranquil Coastal Escape

Whisk yourself away to this beautiful part of Queensland’s coastline with our guide to the best things to do in Airlie Beach.

Tropical vibes, sparkling azure water and island adventures–they’re all part of the magic of this popular holiday destination. This quiet coastal town has plenty to keep the whole family busy, from cruises through the Whitsundays at sunset, waterfront dining experiences and action-packed jet ski adventures. 

If you’re planning your itinerary, this guide covers the best Airlie Beach things to do, from island-hopping to sunset drinks.

Things to do in Airlie Beach – Eat


Eastwoods Dining

This popular dining destination along the Esplanade in Airlie Beach is passionate about showcasing the bold flavours of Southeast Asia. With dishes designed to share and connect over, the philosophy behind Eastwoods Dining is more than just a good feed. 

Whether you’re exploring Airlie with your partner or your entire extended family, Eastswoods invites you to pop your phone aside, delight in connection and mindfully savour the flavours folded with love into every dish. 

Shop 1 & 2, 6 Airlie Esplanade, Airlie Beach

The Belvedere Wine Bar

Marrying good wine and good food with good people, the Belvedere Wine Bar is a must-visit when you’re looking for things to do in Airlie Beach. Established in 2022, Belvedere sits perched above Airlie Beach, giving you a fantastic view of the coastline and blue ocean waters as you sip from the carefully curated wine selection. 

If wine’s not your go-to, choose from a selection of classic cocktails to begin your evening, before ordering from the Mediterranean-inspired menu. 

10 Golden Orchid Drive, Airlie Beach

Sorrento Restaurant and Bar

Soak up those incredible Whitsunday Islands views from Sorrento Restaurant & Bar, overlooking the award-winning Coral Sea Marina. 

A relaxed place to pop into for lunch or dinner, there’s often live acoustic music setting the scene while cocktails are mixed to perfection, and wine is poured at your whim.  

Sorrento welcomes a mix of locals and tourists and has that quintessential Airlie Beach charm that will keep you coming back time and time again on your trip. 

22 Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach

Things to do in Airlie Beach – Stay


Pinnacles

For a luxurious home away from home, make a reservation at Pinnacles. Comprised of 29 self-contained luxury apartments (all with balcony jacuzzi or internal spa tub), this Airlie Beach accommodation is perfect for an escape with your partner, friends or family. 

Having won the Queensland Tourism Awards in 2024, Pinnacles upholds a standard of comfort and convenience that makes any coastal escape a dream.  We love the 180-degree views of the Coral Sea, and the proximity to the beach and restaurants–and we have a feeling you’ll love it too. 

16 Golden Orchid Drive, Airlie Beach

Book now via Pinnacles 

Book now via Tripadvisor

Book now via Booking.com

Club Wyndham

For one of the most comfortable and chic stays in Airlie, visit Club Wyndham. Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom suite, complete with wifi, flat-screen televisions, balconies and whirlpool baths, with some lucky guests scoring bay views. 

Location is everything, and you’ll have no complaints with your stay here. You’re a short 18-minute walk from Airlie Beach, and 31km from Dryander National Park if you’re keen to fit in a bushwalk while you’re away or spot some Proserpine rock wallabies.

9A Hermitage Drive, Airlie Beach

Book now via Club Wyndham

Book now via Luxury Escapes

Coral Sea Resort 

Coral Sea Resort has it all (and more!). You’ll find this Airlie Beach accommodation on the beach along Pioneer Bay, at the doorstep of the marina. With stunning views over the Coral Sea, there couldn’t be a more picturesque place to spend your holiday. 

The suites offer one to three bedrooms, with options to upgrade to hot tubs, whirlpool tubs and ocean views. During your stay, you can dine at the high-end oceanfront website, or pop into either of the laid-back cafes on site. 

If you’re staying active during your escape, make the most of the outdoor pool, or gymnasium or head down to the private jetty to explore the watersports at your disposal.

25 Ocean View Avenue, Airlie Beach

Book now via Coral Sea Resort

Book now via Luxury Escapes

Things to do in Airlie Beach – Play


Go Jetskiing 

Holidays are for indulging, adventure and trying new things. So why not bundle all three into one and indulge in an action-packed day out on the water with Whitsunday Jetski Tours

This award-winning company operates the first and only guided jetski tour, operating from the Coral Sea Marina over to the Whitsundays. Jump aboard the latest model Sea-Doo jetskis, and explore the stunning expanse of the Heritage-Listed Whitsunday Island Marine Park. 

Sitchu Tip: Worried about being a complete beginner? No need to fret! The team will take you through safety and operational instructions–no experience (or license) required!

Shop 3, Coral Sea Marina South Village, Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach

Sundowner Cruises

Picture this: you’re on board a calm, purpose-built catamaran, sipping your favourite cocktail as the sun goes down. It’s not an experience most of us get to indulge in our day-to-day life, so it’s absolutely something you should put on your bucket list of things to do in Airlie Beach! 

Sundowner Cruises offers a dreamy sunset cruise, where you can watch the sun sink into the horizon as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the Whitsundays. Departing from the Coral Sea Marina, Sundowner cruises around Pioneer Bar, skimming close to the points of interest along Airlie Beach and Turtle Bay (where you might spot a friendly turtle!). 

Coral Sea Marina, North Village, Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach

Explore Cedar Creek Falls

A natural oasis awaits you on your next trip to Airlie Beach. This beautiful watering hole can be found at the end of a winding path and is the perfect place for a refreshing dip in the freshwater or under the waterfall. 

You’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and the zen-like sounds of nature as the native birds and butterflies flit about amongst the flora. 

This stunning tropical spot is an incredible part of Airlie Beach’s beautiful natural tapestry and is not to be missed on your holiday.

Cedar Creek Falls, Cedar Creek

Now that you’re up to speed on the best things to do in Airlie Beach, keep planning your Tropical North Queensland escape with our guide to Cairns and the Daintree.

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