Whitsundays Accommodation Guide: Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island and Beyond
The Whitsundays is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations — 74 islands off the Queensland coast, anchored by Airlie Beach on the mainland. Accommodation options range from budget hostels in Airlie to island resort exclusivity at Hamilton Island and Hayman Island. ## The fundamental choice: mainland or island? Your first decision determines everything else. Mainland accommodation (Airlie Beach, Cannonvale) is cheaper, gives more flexibility for day trip choices, and has better dining and nightlife options. Island accommodation is a resort experience — premium-priced, with fewer al