eatsleeptravelrepeat

The countdown to Whitsundays begins... 

So Airlie Beach is your destination before your Whitsundays tour. It has more to do and is arguably in my opinion better than Rainbow Beach because there is more to do. 

The Lagoon 



We spent most of our time at the fake beach that they have Airlie. This is such a great idea if only because you should not swim in the waters here because of sting rays and jelly fish. The lagoon itself is really beautiful and just the way you should spend a chilled afternoon!

Beaches 

So we had planned to cook and to just pick up some food from Woolworths however it was a Sunday and we didn't realise how early it shut...rookie error! However, on the way back we were given some vouchers from the guys at happy travel for a $7.50 drink and meal at beaches so we thought we would give it a go. 

Beaches is about half way down the strip so regardless of where you stay you are always close to it. We ordered the calamari and fish and chips to share. Although they were both really nice, my favourite was definitely the calamari! The portion sizes were also very decent so definitely check it out if you get the chance. The night we went there was also live music. I personally really liked having it there because I thought it gave a nice touch and addition to the ambience. 

Down Under

This is the bar attached to base hostel and due to being guests there we got discount so thought we better check it out. We went on a Sunday, so it was pretty quiet however it was chilled out and the staff were friendly! It's at the top of the Airlie Beach strip so if you wanting to do a pub crawl you are either going to start or end here! 

Shed Bar 

 Shed is the adjoining bar to Nomads and again has good deals and happy hours etc. It was quite busy when we got here and perfect to start your night although I wouldn't recommend staying here all night! 

Phoenix Bar 

 We ended up coming here because we got free entry and reduced drinks for being on the Clipper. Be sure to pick up your wrist band etc because we didn't and had to explain why but it was all sorted. It's a good place to start your night because it is cheap but I wouldn't stay here all night.

 Mama Africas 

 So after Phoenix, the night was still young so we decided to make an appearance in Mana Africa's. There is no way of skating around the fact that there is an eclectic group of people who congrugate here; from travellers to old (no not middle aged) Australian men making shapes in Hawaiian shirts and no dignity. However, it was still definitely a funny way to end the night!

 Overall, loved my time in Airlie. If you have to chose between spending more time in Airlie or Rainbow/Hervey always choose Airlie. There is so much more to do! 

 Love Imogen xoxo