Whitsunday Coast & Hinterland Drive Bowen - Sarina
The Whitsunday Coast is a diverse and fascinating peninsula that stretches far to include isolated beach communities , inland regional centres and scenic hinterland .
A tropical concourse of sparkling sapphire waters and white sandy beaches , the Whitsunday Coast is one of Australia ’ s main tourist attractions .
Driving from Bowen south , there are a plethora of stops you can take in along the way . The Bruce Highway takes you towards Proserpine , however if you are looking to head off the beaten track before you get there , you should take a left onto Collinvale Road , then left again onto Dingo Beach Road , as the destinations you will find if you continue , will leave you breathless .
Known to be the best place to explore both the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday ’ s 74 spectacular islands , the coast is also home to the party town of Airlie Beach that is packed with restaurants , bars , and clubs .
The Whitsunday peninsula coast and hinterland drive from Bowen in the north , with its eight spectacular beaches , Cedar Creek Falls with its remarkable cascades set in a natural rock amphitheatre and the secluded , wildlife-rich Hydeaway Bay are all within short distances of each other , and make for one of the most scenic drives this country offers .
Hydeaway Bay is set on a long , white , sandy beach on a no-through road about 50 kilometres from Airlie Beach . The beach has five public access points and the nearest boat hire and ramp is just down the road at Dingo Beach . If you ’ re after peace and quiet , there ’ s no better place to find it than Hydeaway Bay . You might even be fortunate enough to see some dugong , dolphins , whales or turtles .
Positioned at the top of the Whitsundays , Bowen visitors are treated to a truly authentic paradise .
Bowen has an exciting history ; being the oldest town in North Queensland , established in 1861 , several years ahead of Townsville and Mackay and is well-known as the birthplace of the Kensington Pride ( Bowen Special ) mango . Bowen is known for its varied industries ; including fishing and agriculture .
The Whitsundays activities include diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef , sailing the 74 Whitsunday islands , ocean rafting or flying over the islands .