Things to do in Preston

Boasting year-round warm weather, subtropical waters, shops, restaurants and accommodations, the Port of Airlie can be seen as a destination in itself, although most visitors come here to take a trip out to the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

Airlie Beach Lagoon is a safe and relaxing swimming spot in the heart of the township, where you can play and swim in the clear waters and enjoy the pretty tropical surroundings. Known affectionately to visitors and locals as “the lagoon,” this sheltered man-made pool has been a favored meeting place since 2001 and combines elements of a natural lagoon to create an enticing and secure environment to unwind.

Catseye Beach is a perfect crescent of sand overlooking the royal-blue reefs and forested mountains of Whitsunday Island, making it a popular backdrop for weddings. Regarded as one of Hamilton Island’s premier beach destinations, Catseye Beach is a convenient and scenic spot to spend the day soaking up the sun’s rays or exploring the magnificent shoreline. Swim in the shallows, paddle along the coastline in a kayak, skipper a catamaran or grab your snorkel and mask and discover the picturesque shores of Catseye Beach.

The Hamilton Island Marina is a convenient place to launch your voyage into the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands or stopover for a relaxing stay in a waterfront villa. With spacious berths for yachts and super yachts, the marina is fitted out with state-of-the-art facilities and professional boat care specialists. Alternatively, jump on board one of the passenger ferries or charter tours that depart from the Hamilton Island Marina to explore Airlie Beach, Whitehaven Beach, the Great Barrier Reef or the Whitsunday Islands.

With its elegant waterfront village and unbeatable yachting facilities, Abell Point Marina is the premier marina destination in the Whitsunday region. The marina offers a welcoming berth to cruising and boating visitors, as well as a chic spot for callers from Airlie Beach to enjoy the fantastic cafés and restaurants. Begin your boating adventure around some of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands or embark on a trip bound for the Great Barrier Reef from this state-of-the-art marina. Alternatively, recharge in the cozy seaside town of Airlie Beach with Abell Point Marina as your base.

WILD LIFE Hamilton Island is a small animal park that serves as a refuge for the local wildlife, including cassowaries, dingoes, crocodiles, pademelons and other species that tend to be tricky to spot in the wild.

Pick up some hand-made souvenirs or tropical fruits, enjoy a coffee or a massage on the beach, and mingle with the locals at the Airlie Beach Market. This popular community event takes place every Saturday and live music by local talent gives the gathering a festive atmosphere.

Boathaven Beach in the Port of Airlie is one of the best beaches to visit during the peak season if you want to avoid cruise ship passengers that descend upon Airlie Beach.