Find things to do in Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays. Explore local events, attractions, markets and family activities, with dates, places and prices.
Public listings checked 25/10/2026. Dates use each event’s local time. Check organiser details before travelling.
Explore the region
Discover Airlie Beach, Cannonvale and the surrounding mainland. Proserpine, Bowen and the Whitsunday Islands are separate nearby destinations; island access may require a ferry or tour.
Listings across Airlie Beach, Bowen, Cannonvale, Hamilton Island, Proserpine.
Attractions and places to visit
27 places in this selection. Opening hours, access and admission vary; check the place details.
Tucked away in the charming town of Bowen, this beloved local cinema has been a treasured part of the community for over 63 years. Proudly owned and operated by Ben and Phyl, it offers a warm and nostalgic movie experience that's hard to find these days.
With its old-country charm, cosy twin theatres, small-town prices, and incredibly friendly staff, you'll feel right at home from the moment you arrive. Relax in comfortable seating and treat yourself to their famously delicious, mouthwatering popcorn.
To make your visit even more special, you'll be personally greeted and farewelled by the owner—because here, you're more than just a guest, you're part of the story.
The screens are impressively sized, the seats incredibly comfortable, and the prices simply unbeatable. Bowen Summergarden Cinemas sets a gold standard in the world of cinemas.
If you're visiting Bowen, don't miss the chance to stop by and show your support. It's more than a cinema—it's a local treasure.
Strolling along the five kilometre stretch of Queens Bay’s sandy shore offers plenty of great activities – beach-combing, fishing or just taking in the sunset.
Bowen’s longest beach stretches from ‘The Pocket’ on Horseshoe Bay Rd to Yasso Point and the Don River mouth. Along the way are several beachfront parks with free barbecues, large playgrounds and Sunday markets. Getting exercise with a view is easy with kilometres of walking and bicycle paths and free exercise equipment.
Facing north - northeast, Queens Beach is protected from Bowen's south easterly breeze, resulting in many glassy days, perfect for spotting whales during winter.
Heart Reef was discovered in 1975 by a local pilot and is now an internationally-recognised attraction of The Whitsundays. This incredible coral formation features on many postcards and brochures promoting The Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.
Heart Reef in The Whitsundays is a stunning natural composition of coral in the perfect shape of a heart. It is located in Hardy Reef, part of The Whitsundays stretch of the Great Barrier Reef.
Amateur photographers have been amazed to see that their photos look exactly like the professionals! Get your selfie sticks ready; you are about to visit one of the most Instagrammable locations in the world.
Heart Reef has been the site of many proposals and declarations of love over the years. If planning on making the ultimate romantic gesture during a scenic flight over this iconic landmark, let your pilot know your plans and they’ll be able to help combine this memorable experience with your momentous occasion.
Heart Reef is best experienced from the air by helicopter, seaplane or fixed-wing aircraft, as visitors are unable to snorkel or dive there due it's protected status. Many tour companies will combine a scenic flight over Heart Reef with other breathtaking spots in the Whitsundays, including Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet.
