Top 15 Tours In Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a perfect jumping-off point for exploring some of Australia’s most stunning natural attractions. Thanks to its prime location in the Whitsundays, the area offers a variety of tours tailored to different interests—whether you’re after beach relaxation, underwater adventures, or rainforest escapades. We particularly like the Whitehaven Beach tours for their pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, and the Segway rainforest tours for their unique blend of fun and scenery. Whether you’re snorkeling over coral reefs or riding a Segway through lush forests, Airlie Beach makes it easy to turn your trip into a memorable adventure.

Quick Overview

The list below covers full-day trips, snorkeling and diving excursions, eco-friendly rainforest explorations, adrenaline-pumping jet skis, and luxury sailing adventures. Each tour offers a different way to experience the stunning Whitsundays and mainland attractions, from the laid-back Whitehaven Beach with its famous silica sands to the adrenaline rush of jet skiing. Read on to find the tour that fits your style and interests.

1. Whitehaven Beach Tour: 2 Options – All Day Beach Or Snorkel

This full-day adventure on a high-speed boat takes you to the iconic Whitehaven Beach, famous for its 7 km of untouched silica sands. You can choose between an option with snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach. The boat features unlimited transfers to the beach, ensuring you can swim, sunbathe, or explore at your own pace. A buffet lunch and snacks are included, making this a convenient way to experience Whitehaven’s beauty without the fuss of planning.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility—whether you want to snorkel among vibrant coral and tropical fish or just laze on the powdery sands, you’ll find plenty of space to do so. The South Whitehaven Lookout provides sweeping views, and the snorkeling spot often features turtles and Nemo-like fish. With stellar reviews highlighting friendly staff and excellent facilities, this is a top choice for a full-day escape.

Bottom line: If you want a well-organized, flexible day at Whitehaven Beach with options for snorkeling or relaxing, this tour offers fantastic value for around $164.

2. Purely Whitehaven: Full Day Tour to Whitehaven Beach

This full-day catamaran tour is perfect for those wanting a mix of scenic cruising and active exploration. Starting with bus transfers from Airlie Beach, you’ll head to Shute Harbour, then onto the beautiful Whitsundays. The trip includes guided walks to Hill Inlet and Solway Circuit viewpoints, giving you a chance to witness breathtaking panoramas of the famous swirling sands and reefs.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of hiking, relaxing, and sightseeing—you’ll get detailed explanations of the region’s geology and ecology from guides. After a scenic cruise around Whitsunday Island, you’ll be ashore for swimming, relaxing, or exploring Whitehaven Beach. The delicious meals and included transfers make this a comfortable way to see the highlights.

Bottom line: For about $166, this tour balances sightseeing, hiking, and relaxing on Whitehaven Beach, ideal for active travelers who want a comprehensive day.

3. Private Airlie Beach Tuk-Tuk Tours

Looking for a fun, personalized way to explore Airlie Beach? This private tuk-tuk experience lets you tour the town with a friendly guide, selecting between sunset rides, food tours, or general sightseeing. The 1-hour to 1.5-hour options are perfect for a short but memorable glimpse of the area.

Guests rave about the friendly guides and relaxed pace, enjoying stops at local restaurants or scenic viewpoints. The tour’s appeal lies in its intimate nature—you’re riding in a colorful tuk-tuk, gaining insights that larger bus tours can’t match. It’s a great way to get a feel for the town, especially if you’re short on time.

Bottom line: At just over $21 per person, this tour offers a fun, tailored experience ideal for first-time visitors or couples seeking a casual, guided ride.

4. Full-Day Whitsunday Tour: Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet with BBQ

This 8-hour tour is a stellar choice for those wanting to experience two must-see spots—Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet—along with a top-notch beach BBQ. The tour includes courtesy transfers, a guided walk to Hill Inlet lookout, and plenty of time to relax or swim on Whitehaven Beach.

What makes this trip stand out is its emphasis on value and comfort: it features a BBQ lunch with steaks, salads, and plenty of snacks, plus white-sand beaches and scenic walks. Reviewers mention the friendly crew and excellent food, noting it’s “one of the best local family-run tours.” The 2.5-hour beach break and guided bushwalks make this an active yet relaxing day.

Bottom line: For around $161, this tour offers great value, combining sightseeing, hiking, and a delicious BBQ in an all-inclusive package.

5. Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Day Tour with Snorkel Option

This 8-hour speedboat trip offers the flexibility of choosing a snorkel upgrade or just soaking up the sun on Whitehaven Beach. The fast boat ensures quick transit, giving you more time at the beach and for snorkeling among coral reefs and tropical fish.

The tour includes unlimited water transfers and a buffet lunch. Reviewers mention the comfortable boat with outdoor lounges and air-conditioning, making it enjoyable even on warmer days. The guided walk to South Whitehaven Lookout provides stunning views, while the snorkeling often features sea turtles and colorful fish.

Bottom line: For about $167, this tour combines speed, flexibility, and underwater adventure, perfect for active travelers keen on snorkeling or just relaxing on a famous beach.

6. Whitsunday Segway Rainforest Discovery Tour

This small-group tour takes you into Conway National Park on a fun Segway ride. It includes hotel transfers, morning tea, and an instruction session—no experience needed. The focus is on eco-friendly exploration, traveling along the Great Walk and exploring over 100-year-old fig trees.

What makes this tour special is the chance to cover more ground in less time and learn about the flora and fauna of the rainforest firsthand. Reviewers love the personalized experience and engaging guides, with one noting that it’s “a great way to see more of the Whitsundays’ rainforest.”

Bottom line: At $107.59, this 3.5-hour tour combines adventure, nature, and a bit of technology—perfect for nature lovers and those wanting something different.

7. Whitsunday: Whitsunday Islands Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch

This 7-hour day trip offers a chance to explore multiple islands, with snorkeling included. You’ll visit Whitehaven Beach and enjoy panoramic views from Hill Inlet Lookout. The tour features cruise-style comfort on a fast boat, giving you more time at each location.

The highlight is the snorkeling, where you can see colorful reef fish and marine life. The guides share interesting facts about the islands, making it both fun and educational. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to combine beach, snorkeling, and sightseeing in one day.

Bottom line: For those keen on a comprehensive day of island hopping, this tour is a great option at a competitive price.

8. Airlie Beach: Airlie Adventure Jet Ski Tour

For adrenaline junkies, this 2.5-hour jet ski tour offers a chance to speed around the Whitsundays. You’ll explore the marine park, with opportunities to spot sea turtles, dugongs, and whales (in season). The tour is guided by qualified instructors, ensuring safety and fun.

Guests highlight the thrill of riding the jet ski and the stunning coastal scenery. The tour is flexible, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, and includes informative commentary about marine life. It’s a must-do if you want a fast-paced, fun adventure.

Bottom line: At $189, this tour packs excitement into a short timeframe—ideal for adventure lovers wanting a quick thrill.

9. Airlie Beach: Great Barrier Reef & Whitehaven Beach Tour

This 8-hour tour combines snorkeling at outer Great Barrier Reef sites with a relaxing day at Whitehaven Beach. The jetboat ride gets you quickly between reef and beach, maximizing your time in each location. You’ll enjoy snorkeling among spectacular coral and spotting marine life.

The tour includes walks to the Hill Inlet lookout and white-sand beaches, along with lunch onboard. Reviewers appreciate the speed and efficiency of the jetboat and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who want a full-day experience of reef and beach, especially if they’re interested in snorkeling amid vibrant coral ecosystems.

10. Whitsundays Segway Sunset and Boardwalk Tour with Dinner

This 3-hour sunset tour offers a leisurely way to see the coastline on a Segway, ending with a pizza or pasta dinner at a local restaurant. It covers the Bicentennial Boardwalk and nearby beaches, with stops at scenic viewpoints.

Guests love the easy, fun ride and the informative guides who provide insights into the area. The dinner is a relaxing way to cap off the day, especially for those wanting a mix of sightseeing and good food.

Bottom line: For around $90, this tour combines scenic views, easy riding, and a nice meal, ideal for a relaxed evening outing.

11. Airlie Beach: Segway Rainforest Discovery Tour

This 4-hour tour takes you into Conway National Park on a guided Segway ride, exploring rainforest trails and animal habitats. It includes morning tea and full instruction, making it suitable for beginners.

Reviewers praise the peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience and the chance to see monitor lizards and Ulysses butterflies in their natural habitat. It’s a rare way to see the rainforest without the usual hiking.

Bottom line: At approximately $70, this eco-friendly tour is perfect for nature lovers looking for a calm, immersive experience.

12. Airlie Beach Trike Tours

Want to ride in style? This trike motorcycle tour offers customizable routes from 30 minutes to 3 hours. You can cruise around Airlie Beach, explore Shute Harbour, visit Cedar Creek Falls, or enjoy scenic drives.

Reviews mention the friendly guides and personalized attention, making this a great way to see the area in comfort and style. The tours are suitable for small groups or private experiences, with size and weight constraints.

Bottom line: For about $22, this tour offers an exciting, luxurious way to explore the coast and countryside.

13. Airlie Beach Glass Bottom Boat Tour

If you prefer a low-key, family-friendly activity, this 1 hour 10 minute glass-bottom boat offers a guided tour of coral reefs and marine life near Airlie Beach. It’s perfect for kids or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational experience.

The boat provides shade and safety equipment, and reviews mention excellent commentary and good value. You’ll see turtles, fish, and colorful coral without getting wet or diving in.

Bottom line: At just over $63, this is an accessible, fun, and educational way to explore Marine Park’s underwater world.

14. Airlie Beach: 3-Hour Sunset Segway Tour with Dinner

This evening tour combines a guided Segway ride along the coast with a dinner at Sorrento Restaurant. You’ll enjoy the sunset views over Pioneer Bay while gliding past Shingley Beach and the Coral Sea Marina.

Guests describe it as fun, relaxing, and scenic, with the added bonus of a delicious meal. The easy ride and informative guides make it suitable for all levels.

Bottom line: For around $89, this is a great way to combine sightseeing, sunset views, and a tasty dinner in a stress-free outing.

15. Airlie Beach: Whitsunday Islands 2-Day Sailing Tour

For those with a little more time, this overnight sailing trip on a racing yacht offers an immersive experience. You’ll sail between islands, snorkel along vibrant reefs, explore Whitehaven Beach, and stargaze onboard.

The trip includes fresh meals and top sailing tunes, creating a comfortable, intimate atmosphere. Reviewers note the beautiful scenery and small-group intimacy make it a memorable experience.

Bottom line: At about two days, this tour suits travelers eager to sail, snorkel, and relax aboard a luxurious yacht with a cozy group.

How to Choose

When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a relaxing, all-in-one day, the Whitehaven Beach with BBQ or the snorkeling tours provide excellent value. If you’re after adventure, the Jet Ski or trike tours deliver thrill and style. For nature lovers, the Rainforest Segway and rainforest Segway tours explore sites hard to reach on foot.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular trips like the 2-day sailing or full-day Whitehaven Beach tours, to secure your spot in peak season.

Final Thoughts

Airlie Beach offers a wide array of excursions tailored to different tastes, from luxury sailing to active rainforest adventures. If you’re after a relaxing day at Whitehaven Beach, the full-day options are hard to beat. For a more active experience, consider the jet ski tours or Segway adventures. Budget conscious travelers will find the tuk-tuk or glass-bottom boat tours offer great value.

No matter your choice, booking in advance will help ensure your spot on these highly-rated tours. With such a diverse selection, Airlie Beach guarantees an unforgettable experience in Queensland’s stunning Whitsundays.