Whitsunday Islands National Park
Bordered By the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea, Whitsunday
Islands National Park is a sight to behold.
Whale Watching Whitsunday Islands
From May through September, the Whitsundays are the place to be for
whale watchers of every age. An important calving ground for migrating
humpback whales, the aquamarine waters around Whitsunday Passage and
Whitehaven Beach provide the perfect water climate for this magnificent
species. The entire series of seventy-four islands comprise the
Whitsunday Islands National Park.
Of the seventy-four islands, only eight are inhabited. The hilly
islands spotting the crystal clear waters of Whitsunday Passage along
Australia’s Queensland Coast are protected. Changing sea levels drowning
a mountain range formed this natural cluster of continental islands. The
reefs are known for its immense coral cover as well as the stunning
colours and large variety of corals that live here.
The Ngaro People
The unique lifestyle of the Ngaro People, (the earliest recorded
Aboriginal Peoples in Australia), can be found on Hook Island. Their
incredible Rock Art and middens allows a glimpse into the special world
of the “Island People”, who lived and thrived for hundreds of years on
the mainland and nearby Whitsundays.
A variety of commercial tours and private boats are available from
Shute Harbour or Airlie Beach to take visitors to their destinations.
Whether you prefer the five star treatment of a yacht cruise, sailing
around the islands, jet boating to one of the islands or flying over
them to get an arial view, there are transportation opportunities that
cover every budget and every preference.
Camping at the Whitsundays
Campers can be deposited or collected at a number of sites, however
it is critical you book your passage and your campsite. Also, be aware
if you decide to camp overnight at one of the allowable locations, that
strict adherence to the camping rules must be followed. They are quite
simple for the most part, things such as taking enough water, ensuring
you are completely self sufficient and returning any rubbish with you
back to the mainland. You may need to take a cook-stove with you as open
fires and generators are strictly forbidden.
The waters are usually clearer on the northern sides of the outer
islands, but snorkelling during high tide over the reef flats can be
extremely beautiful as well. If snorkelling or scuba diving is not your
cup of tea, fret not, as there are beautiful walks, exquisite golfing
amenities, parasailing, miles of dazzling white sand, uninhabited
islands with unspoiled natural fauna and flora, desolate beaches and
miles of thriving bush lands. In addition to the world-renowned coral
reefs, that have a vibrant and diverse eco-system, the National Park
offers a marine eco-system unlike anywhere else in the world.
Ecologists, environmentalists and scientists are all stunned and
frequently confused by how the vast eco-systems and marine life all
co-exists in harmony in a manner not found anywhere else either in
Australia or the worlds multiple oceans.
Ensure when you plan your visit, you plan enough time to enjoy all
the activities, entertainment and magnificent cuisine available on the
mainland and on the inhabited islands. You will not only – not be
disappointed – you are sure to want to come back year after year.
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