The best glamping pods near Airlie Beach

The best months to visit are May to September, when the weather is balmy and the waters are free of toxic marine stingers, which prevents ocean swimming (unless you don a special ‘stinger suit’). The busiest times are June to August, so make sure you book early. December to March is hotter and more humid. Expect ocean temperatures of at least 72F year-round. The rainy season is January to March, and cyclones are possible between November and April.

• There are 28 camping areas across the islands or mainland National Parks. Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forest and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival.
• Saltwater crocodiles are found in the nearby Proserpine River and other waterways in the region.
• Manta Ray Bay on Hook Island is a great spot for snorkelling, with big fish such as the protected Maori wrasse, trevally and lots of smaller reef fish.
• Cid Harbour, on the western side of Whitsunday Island, is a known site for shark attacks, so is best avoided by swimmers.