Whitehaven Beach

Whitehaven Beach stretches over seven kilometres along Whitsunday Island in Queensland's Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The sand is 98% pure silica — so white it doesn't get hot underfoot and squeaks when you walk on it. The northern end, Hill Inlet, is famous for the swirling patterns of sand and turquoise water that shift with the tides.

Over an hour on what is quite possibly the whitest sand on the planet. It squeaks under your feet. The water is that impossible shade of blue you think is photoshopped but isn't. Our longest walk — bring snacks.

What to expect

• ✓98% pure silica sand — the whitest in the world
• ✓Hill Inlet tidal sand swirls at the northern end
• ✓Part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
• ✓Crystal-clear turquoise water for swimming
• ✓Seven kilometres of uninterrupted beach