Day Trips by Car
Discover the Whitsundays beyond your doorstepAirlie Beach is the perfect base for exploring the Whitsundays. Within an hour, you can reach pristine beaches, cascading waterfalls, rainforest trails, and laid-back coastal towns. Whether you prefer a scenic drive, a family outing, or a day on the water, every adventure starts close to Mirage Whitsundays.
Image credit: Destination Queensland
Conway National Park & Cedar Creek Falls
Just inland from Airlie Beach, Conway National Park is a tropical haven of rainforest trails, lookouts, and waterfalls. The park’s Honeyeater Lookout Trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Whitsunday Islands, while the Coral Beach Track leads to a secluded bay perfect for a picnic.
A short drive deeper into the park brings you to Cedar Creek Falls, one of the Whitsundays’ most-loved swimming holes. Surrounded by lush forest, the falls flow best during the wet season, though the pools are beautiful for a dip year-round.
🗺️ Access: Conway Road – 25 minutes from Mirage Whitsundays.
Image credit: Destination Queensland
Hydeaway Bay & Dingo Beach
For a peaceful local getaway, head north to Hydeaway Bay and Dingo Beach — two relaxed seaside communities known for calm waters and friendly beach bars. Enjoy lunch at the Dingo Beach Hotel, paddle in the shallows, or simply take in the ocean views. Both beaches are family-friendly and perfect for unwinding away from the crowds.
🗺️ Distance: 45–50 minutes from Mirage Whitsundays.
Bowen
The coastal town of Bowen, about an hour north of Airlie Beach, is famous for its tranquil beaches and snorkelling straight off the shore at Horseshoe Bay. Stop for lunch at the local marina or grab a photo with the town’s iconic Big Mango. Bowen makes a relaxed and scenic coastal day trip.
🗺️ Distance: 1 hour from Mirage Whitsundays.
Image credit: Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation
Proserpine & Whitsunday Gold Coffee
Head inland to Proserpine, a charming country town just 25 minutes away. Visit the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation for freshly roasted coffee, a café lunch, and a mini animal farm for kids. The nearby Proserpine Museum offers a glimpse into the region’s sugarcane and pioneer history.
🗺️ Distance: 25 minutes from Mirage Whitsundays.
Conway Beach & Wilson Beach
South of Airlie Beach, Conway Beach and Wilson Beach offer a quiet coastal escape where the rainforest meets the sea. Popular with locals for fishing, kitesurfing, and picnics, these beaches are ideal for those seeking a slower pace. Stop by George’s Diner for a retro-style lunch before heading back to town.
🗺️ Distance: 35 minutes from Mirage Whitsundays.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Day Trips
What are the best short day trips from Airlie Beach?
Whitehaven Beach, Conway National Park, Hideaway Bay, and Bowen are all popular options within an hour of Mirage Whitsundays.
Can I reach the Whitsunday Islands from the mainland in one day?
Yes. Tours with Cruise Whitsundays and Ocean Rafting run daily to Whitehaven Beach and nearby islands, departing from Airlie Beach.
Are there scenic drives near Airlie Beach?
Yes. Scenic routes to Proserpine, Conway Beach, and Dingo Beach showcase both the coastal and hinterland sides of the Whitsundays.
Is Cedar Creek Falls suitable for visiting year-round?
A natural wonderland perfect for any getaway, Cedar Creek Falls is a spectacular year-round waterhole. It becomes truly magical after rain, making it a favorite spot for both visitors and residents.
Can Mirage Whitsundays assist with day tour bookings?
Yes. The reception team can help plan day trips, arrange transfers, and book tours with trusted local operators.