Ferry from Daydream Island to Airlie Beach

Daydream Island Guide

Daydream Island Ferry Port

Forming one of the seven landmasses of the Molle Archipelago found off the north-east coast of Australia is the paradisiac Daydream Island. With broad stretches of sandy beaches overlooking the sapphire-blue sea and thriving coral reefs teeming with exotic marine life, this tiny isle is a magnet for tourists looking to soak up the sun in tropical tranquillity. The port of Daydream Island is found in a small bay on the eastern coast. It consists of a narrow wooden pier that juts out into a slice of ocean sandwiched between the stunning Daydream Reef. It’s little more than a departure point featuring a few sheltered waiting benches, though the nearby resort hotel has plenty of amenities on offer including a restaurant selling hot food and a tourist information point. Due to the small size of the island, travelling to the port is simple. The road outside the entrance to the pier leads in a straight-line from the unique Living Reef aquarium in the north to the quiet beaches in the south. However, due to the lack of public transport and the inability for passengers to bring cars, most of the 1-kilometre long island can only be traversed on foot. One passenger service currently leaves from the port multiple times throughout the day. A Cruise Whitsundays line sails the half hour trip to the Australian mainland town of Airlie, an area of the Queensland region that sits on the rugged shores of Pioneer Bay.

Airlie Beach Guide

What is there to do in Airlie Beach?

The astonishingly beautiful beaches looking out across the pristine blue horizon have become a mecca for backpackers on a budget, tempted by the increasingly debauched reputation that encapsulates the Whitsundays. Streams of travellers descend on the picturesque scenery and abundance of hostels each year, indulging in drinking games in beer gardens, sunbathing sessions on the golden sands of the beach and explorations of the alluring lagoons. For those who are looking for somewhere fun and frivolous, head to Airlie Beach. In spite of the heavily layered party scene, families looking to escape the relentless hedonism will be happier closer to the town centre. A few quiet lodges lay home to many couples and families with young children, enjoying every minute amid the serenity before embarking on an adventure on the shore or discovering the intricate crevices that form Conway National Park.

How do you get around Airlie Beach?

Buses will drop you at your hotel or resort, as well as a frequent taxi service running across the region.