Events
Plan your stay around Airlie Beach’s most exciting annual events.Airlie Beach hosts an energetic calendar of events that celebrate music, sailing, food, and tropical living. From waterfront festivals to ocean-view concerts, there’s always something happening along the coast. Here are some of the region’s highlights.
Annual Events
Great Barrier Reef Festival – August
Celebrate life on the reef with fireworks, markets, live music, and family activities across Airlie Beach and the foreshore.
🌐 greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au
Airlie Beach Festival of Music – November
A three-day beachside music festival featuring Australian and international artists performing at venues around town and the waterfront.
🌐 airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au
Whitsunday Sailing Club Regattas – Year-round
From local twilight sails to national championships, the Whitsunday Sailing Club hosts several sailing regattas throughout the year.
🌐 whitsundaysailingclub.com.au
Airlie Beach Race Week Festival of Sailing – August
One of Australia’s premier sailing events, combining world-class yacht racing with onshore entertainment, food stalls, and live music.
🌐 abrw.com.au
Hamilton Island Race Week – August
A short ferry ride from Airlie Beach, this internationally recognised regatta draws sailors and spectators from around the world.
🌐 hamiltonislandraceweek.com.au
Airlie Beach Marathon Festival – July
Join runners of all levels for the annual Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, a scenic event along the Bicentennial Walkway and waterfront. Choose from the marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km, or family fun run — all set against stunning Coral Sea views.
🌐 runairlie.com.au
Airlie Beach Triathlon – July
A favourite on the Whitsundays sporting calendar, the Airlie Beach Triathlon combines a scenic ocean swim, cycle, and run along the Airlie Foreshore. The weekend also features a junior triathlon and family-friendly events for all ages.
🌐 airliebeachtriathlon.com.au
White on Whitehaven – September
A luxury all-white beach party set on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach. Guests arrive by private cruise for an afternoon of cocktails, DJs, and dancing against the Whitsundays’ most iconic backdrop.
🌐 airlieevents.com.au/white-on-whitehaven-2
Stay with Mirage Whitsundays
Make the most of every event with a stay close to the action. Mirage Whitsundays offers spacious waterfront apartments, just minutes from the Airlie Beach Foreshore and Coral Sea Marina.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Airlie Beach Events
When is the best time to visit Airlie Beach for events?
Most major festivals and regattas take place between July and November, during the dry season when the weather is clear and ideal for outdoor celebrations.
What are the biggest annual events in Airlie Beach?
The Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach Festival of Music, Race Week, and White on Whitehaven are among the most popular, attracting visitors from across Australia.
Are events suitable for families?
Yes. Many events, including the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, and Race Week, offer free family zones, live entertainment, and markets for all ages.
How far is Mirage Whitsundays from event venues?
Most major events are held along the Airlie Beach Foreshore or at Coral Sea Marina, both less than a 10-minute drive or pleasant coastal walk from Mirage Whitsundays.
Can Mirage Whitsundays help with event information or tickets?
Yes. The reception team can provide event schedules, assist with transfers, and recommend dining or activities to complement your stay.