On the coast 300 km south of Townsville, east off Bruce Highway. A picturesque seaside spot, Airlie Beach has two beaches which are rather disappointing. Also, inshore swimming along this coast can be dangerous from October to April if there are box jellyfish around (be sure to ask before plunging in). But this is the place to stay if you’re visiting the Whitsunday Islands. The ferry terminal for the islands is at Shute Harbour, just 8 km east down the road.

In the season there are excursion trips to see the whales migrating along the coast from Antarctica (August to October). This is also an excellent spot for learning how to scuba dive, before setting off for the islands. Try Pro-Dive (tel. +61 2 8116 1199; www.prodive.com.au) on Shute Harbour Road (the main drag).

You may have difficulty finding the sort of accommodation you want during peak season, and also during the Whitsunday Fun Race, which is in August.

Most of Airlie Beach’s 7,500 or so permanent residents make their living out of the holiday business, and the place has a pleasantly laid-back Californian feel.