Great Destination Weddings Issue 10 / 2023 | Page 30

AUSTRALIA ’ S HEART OF holiday weddings

Discover why The Whitsundays offers the ultimate destination wedding experience , right here on our doorstep .

Holiday . Wedding . Wonderland . It ’ s The Whitsundays in three words , and why so many couples fall for Australia ’ s capital of romance . Lapped by the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea , this multi-faceted Great Barrier Reef / beachside destination is wedding-ready from every angle . Glorious for two , it ’ s also perfect for bringing your whole crew to enjoy the 74 tropical islands , diverse landscapes , and endless activities . Honeymoons ? They come naturally in this close-to-home paradise , whether you ’ re dreaming of your first reef dive or just looking to unwind poolside .

Here are just five reasons you ’ ll love celebrating in The Whitsundays .

1 Dreamy locations

And we mean lots of dreamy locations . Little wonder The Whitsundays recently appeared alongside Julia & George in Ticket to Paradise : a rom-com with sun-kissed backdrops to match its glittering Hollywood stars . From palm-fringed beaches to rustic country landscapes , you ’ ll find a location to suit every wedding style . Nature-lovers ? You can even marry right on the reef at the Cruise Whitsundays Reefworld pontoon !
But let ’ s start on the mainland , where oceanfront parklands and exclusive venues offer stunning views of the water and islands . The Whitsunday Marine Club is a particular favourite for its private peninsula position and expansive lawns . Other must-see options include the tropical rainforest villas of Paradise Cove and the exotic Balinese-style beauty and sea views of Villa Botanica . Want the best of both worlds ? See the magnificent 6000- acre private estate , Earlando for country-meets-coastal romance .
If your wish-list starts with an island chapel , head to the region ’ s holiday isles ( think Hamilton , Hayman , and Daydream ) for oodles of ‘ I do ’ inspiration . Seaplane entrances , private beach vows , and moonlit reception revelry all happen here . Love a good photo-op ? Soar above Heart Reef for the ultimate elopement or enjoy a breathtaking helicopter arrival to your Whitehaven Beach ceremony .
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