Whitsunday Islands National Park, founded in 1944, covers islands off the coast near Airlie Beach, and every visit starts on a boat. Once ashore, the facilities are simple: picnic tables, some of them sheltered, and tent camping. Families who want to stay the night pay a camping permit, with a family rate that covers children and small children camping for free. The trade-off is how remote the islands are. There are no lifeguards, tidal currents can rise quickly when swimming, and medical help can be hours away, so children need watching near the water at all times. The uninhabited islands have no fresh water, so everyone has to carry their own drinking water; the park does not say whether any food is available.
Family FAQ
How much does Whitsunday Islands National Park cost?
Camping permits cost AUD 7.75 per person per night, or AUD 31.00 per family per night (one or two adults with children under 18, up to eight people).
Is Whitsunday Islands National Park a good choice in bad weather?
Picnic tables are provided, and some of them are sheltered.