Whitsunday Islands Day 1 - Airlie Beach

Photography copyright @ Kai Zhe Yeu 

Day 1

7/16/2013

We flew with Jetstar. We departed from Brisbane and arrived at Proserpine. Proserpine is 30 mins away from Airlie Beach. There were 8 of us so we took taxi (van) which was cheaper than bus. 

P.S. Remember to get a name card from the van driver, so that you can make a call on the day back. 

For those of you who don't plan to sail for all the time on your vacation, Airlie beach is a backpacker paradise and a great place to kick start your adventure to the Whitsunday Islands. It's cheap and such a relaxing place! There are a lot of backpackers' hostels that you might get confused which to choose.

#1 Check In 

I think we had a great choice choosing the Base Backpacker which located at the beginning of Shute Harbour Road. Base Backpacker is also near to the Airlie Beach Lagoon and Bicentennial Boardwalk. What I love the most about Base Backpacker is that we have free simple breakfast every morning, eat all you can; we have milks, juices, toast, fruits and cereals. Everyone of us have it which I think is great, not to worry about going hungry before sail trips. And also the rooms are clean with greenery environment and nice air. I can't ask for more. Not to forget it has a common kitchen too, we cooked 2 dinners of spaghetti to save money. I had fun cooking in the kitchen with all the angmo leng zai. Hahaz. 

We booked both day tours at the Base Backpacker information counter. I searched everything online before this trip, so I had something in mind about the price range and reviews. The Base Backpacker gave us extra discounts and great advice about the weather. They were super friendly, super nice, super cheerful. So, hope you choose Base Backpacker. 

#2 Airlie Beach Lagoon 

It is a man-made lagoon but not to bad for a swim. Surrounding it is the Coral Sea, we took our time strolling around the place. 

#2 Bicentennial Boardwalk and Abel Point Marina

Walk along the coral sea from Airlie Beach to Abel Point Marina. Abel Point Marina is the perfect sunset spot.

#3 Airlie Beach Main Street
Not really happening, mainly because the street was under construction and some shops were on renovation when we were there. Nothing much to do at night except chill on a beer and pool. We had a lot of Domino's pizzas which were the cheapest option and can make you feel full. Hahaz.