Located just off the coast of Queensland, the Whitsunday Islands are a world famous holiday destination extremely popular with local and international visitors. If you like palm-fringed beaches, clear blue water, amazing scenery, world class accommodation and an endless choice of activities then you really owe it to yourself to visit the Whitsundays.

Although it is possible to fly directly to some of the islands, Airlie Beach on the mainland is the departure point used by most travellers. But it is much more than just a gateway to the Whitsundays: Airlie Beach has an excellent selection of accommodation for all budgets from backpackers to luxury resorts and apartments, all at considerably lower rates than you will find on the islands. There are a far wider range of dining options, and of course, Airlie Beach is famous for it's lively nightlife. This is the best place to book tours and activities: from boat trips to helicopter flights to scuba diving - it's all available here.

The busiest of the Whitsundays is Hamilton Island, and it is certainly the most developed with plenty of resorts and apartment complexes to choose from and lots of activities to enjoy too. There isn't much in the way of low budget accommodation though, and the eating and drinking can mount up so Hamilton Island is really better suited to mid-range and up visitors.

Hayman Island is another stunning option for you to visit, and it is home to one of the region's most prestigious resorts: The Hayman. Again, this is not for anyone on a low budget but if the price is not an issue you will enjoy staying in some of the finest accommodation in a picture-perfect location - you certainly will not be disappointed.

Especially popular with families, Lindeman Island offers the usual great attractions: soft sandy beaches, lots of fun activities and absolutely beautiful scenery. Australia's first ever Club Med resort provides comfortable, contemporary accommodation and package deals that include meals and most of the resort's activities: even alcohol is included. The resort also has Kids Clubs that cater to different age ranges, meaning parents can get some time to relax too.

Although it has no resorts whatsoever, Whitsunday Island really is a must-see when you are visiting the Whitsundays. The absolutely stunning Whitehaven Beach is kilometre after kilometre of pure white, soft, silica sand that really has to be seen to be believed: this award-winning beach truly is one of the best in the world.

Other islands worth considering are Daydream Island, Long Island and Hook Island, which has some good snorkeling and scuba diving possibilities and a very affordable resort. For the best diving and snorkeling it is recommended that you take a boat to the outer reef - the Great Barrier Reef - where you will be amazed by the underwater world you encounter.

Camping is possible at campgrounds on a number of islands - even at Whitehaven beach - and these sites are operated by Queensland's National Parks department. It is an amazing way to experience the Whitsunday Islands, and it is extremely inexpensive too. Camping permits must be booked in advance, and it is recommended to book as far in advance as possible.

The Whitsunday Islands offer you the holiday of a lifetime - we hope to welcome you soon!