Experience the beauty of Whitehaven Beach

Breathtaking / (adjective): astonishing or awe-inspiring in quality, so as to take one's breath away.
 
There is simply no other word for it. I’ve seen an abundance of photos but none do the site justice. The beauty of Whitehaven Beach is something you simply need to experience for yourself.
 
We depart Hamilton Island via helicopter and arrive within minutes. Located on the east coast of Whitsunday Island, the largest of the Whitsunday Islands, this natural wonder is literally on Hamilton Island’s doorstep.
 

Whitehaven Beach, located only a short boat trip or flight from neighbouring Hamilton Island. Photo taken by Gemma Christie.

Seven kilometres of pure white, pristine silica sand stretch out before us dividing lush bushland from the azure blue water. Hands and nose pressed against the helicopter window, I can’t look away.
 
It’s no surprise Whitehaven Beach was voted last year by TripAdvisor enthusiasts as the best beach in Australia and fifth best in the world. I couldn’t agree more. This beach is a fierce competitor in any beach beauty pageant. 
 
As we fly the length of the coastline, the water gently laps the sand. A light aqua fades into a deep turquoise, embracing a myriad of shades in between.

Flying above the swirling beauty of Hill Inlet is an experience everyone should tick off at least once in their lifetime. Photo taken by Gemma Christie.

We soar towards the northern end of the beach and the stunning swirls of Hill Inlet capture my attention. The shifting silica sand and aqua water create a unique fusion of colours as the tides drift in and out between the tree lined inlet. It’s a perfect masterpiece – one of creation’s finest.
 
The helicopter pilot loops back giving us one last look and lands halfway down Whitehaven Beach. Stepping out onto the sand for the first time is a unique experience in itself. It’s this super fine sand made up of 98% pure silica that has made Whitehaven Beach famous around the world. Although it’s a beautifully hot Whitsundays day, the sand surprisingly doesn’t burn my feet. Silica doesn’t retain heat like regular sand so walking along the beach is a joy to say the least.
 
I dive into the clear water and couldn’t possibly feel more content. 

Landing on the pure white sand of Whitehaven Beach. Photo taken by Gemma Christie.

Fly or cruise: Getting to Whitehaven Beach from Hamilton Island
 
If you’re visiting Hamilton Island, to say you have to do this experience almost seems like an understatement in itself. There are several ways to get to Whitehaven Beach with an option to suit every traveller and budget.
 
Whether you choose the seaplane or helicopter option, flying is definitely recommended. In my opinion, the beauty of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet can only truly be grasped from above. To make the experience extra special, you can order a packed picnic along with a bottle of bubbles. A visit to Australia’s most beautiful beach deserves a “cheers” to mark the occasion!
 
However if flying isn’t your thing, there are plenty of cruising options from Hamilton Island as well which will see you arrive on the sand in approximately 30 minutes. Half day and full day tours are available with each option allowing plenty of time to soak up the sunshine, play in the water or on the sand and explore the lush Whitsunday Island landscape.
 
Whatever option you choose to take, make sure you have your camera ready as this is one memory you will want to look back on for many years to come