Whitsunday: Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Tour with BBQ Lunch

Summary

Whitehaven’s shifting sands, Hill Inlet’s wild blues, and a beach BBQ you’ll remember

You’ll step onto Whitehaven Beach’s bright sand, cruise past islands with locals who know every stretch, hike up for wild inlet views, and eat fresh BBQ right on the shore. There’s space to swim or just let your mind wander — it’s less about rushing around and more about soaking up what makes this place feel different.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so small stepping onto Whitehaven Beach — the sand almost squeaked under my feet, so white it looked fake. Our guide, Dan (local legend apparently), joked about “stinger suits” before we even left Airlie Beach. I’d never worn one before but honestly? Felt like part of the adventure. The boat ride out was windy but not rough — we passed Hamilton Island and I caught glimpses of turquoise water through salt-splattered windows. People were quieter than I thought they’d be, just watching those colors shift.

At Hill Inlet Lookout, after a short bushwalk (nothing too crazy, maybe 15 minutes?), the view really did stop me for a second. It’s not just blue — there are these wild swirls where the tide mixes up the sandbanks. Dan pointed out stingrays in the shallows; I squinted and pretended I could see them too. The air smelled salty and warm, and someone’s sunscreen drifted by on the breeze. We wandered down to the water — it felt cold at first but you get used to it quick.

The BBQ lunch on South Whitehaven was way better than I’d expected from a “tour meal.” Steaks sizzling on an actual grill right there on the beach, salads that weren’t sad at all. Everyone sort of lingered around in sandy feet and wet swimsuits, swapping stories or just zoning out at the waves. There was time to hike up to another lookout or just float in the shallows; I went for a swim and nearly lost track of time. Still think about that taste of grilled pineapple mixed with sea air.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitsunday Islands tour with BBQ lunch

• Pick up from Airlie Beach
• Depart Coral Sea Marina to Whitsunday Island
• Cruise past Daydream and Hamilton Islands
• Guided bushwalk to Hill Inlet lookout and beach
• Beach BBQ lunch on Whitehaven Beach
• Optional hike to Whitehaven Lookout or relax

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet?

The tour lasts a full day with approximately 2.5 hours each at Whitehaven Beach South and Hill Inlet Beach.

Is hotel pickup included for this Whitsunday tour?

Yes, complimentary transfers from your accommodation in Airlie Beach are included.

What food is served during the beach BBQ lunch?

The BBQ includes steak cooked to order, sausages, chili burgers, salads, fruits, and options for dietary needs if you notify in advance.

Are stinger suits provided for swimming?

Yes, stinger suits are included during stinger season for swimming safety.

Can children join this Whitehaven Beach tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; loan strollers are available for infants if needed.

How difficult is the walk to Hill Inlet Lookout?

The guided bushwalk is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels; it takes around 15 minutes each way.

Does this tour include visits to both North & South Whitehaven beaches?

Yes, you’ll visit both North (Hill Inlet) and South sections of Whitehaven Beach during the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Airlie Beach accommodations, all boat transfers between islands with plenty of space onboard (even a rooftop deck), guided walks at Hill Inlet and along Whitehaven Beach, use of stinger suits when needed, morning tea and coffee plus afternoon cheese and biscuits, and a proper Aussie BBQ lunch cooked right on the sand before heading back in time for sunset light over the water.