Travel Budget for Whitsundays Visit Whitsundays on a Budget or Travel in Style

Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia
Pacific / Australia / Queensland /
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Whitsundays is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Whitsundays?

A typical traveler spends $154 (AU$236) per day on a trip to Whitsundays. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Whitsundays based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $52 (AU$79) on meals
  • $55 (AU$84) on local transportation
  • $138 (AU$211) on hotels

A one-week trip to Whitsundays for two people costs, on average, $2,162 (AU$3,304). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $154
    AU$236
  • One Week Per person
    $1,081
    AU$1,652
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,162
    AU$3,304
  • One Month Per person
    $4,632
    AU$7,080
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,162
    AU$3,304
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $4,323
    AU$6,608
  • One Month For a couple
    $9,264
    AU$14,160
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Whitsundays cost?

A one week trip to Whitsundays usually costs around $1,081 (AU$1,652) for one person and $2,162 (AU$3,304) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Whitsundays on average costs around $2,162 (AU$3,304) for one person and $4,323 (AU$6,608) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Whitsundays will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Whitsundays on average costs around $4,632 (AU$7,080) for one person and $9,264 (AU$14,160) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Whitsundays expensive to visit?

In Whitsundays, budget travelers spend $68 (AU$103) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $154 (AU$236) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $295 (AU$452) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Whitsundays.

Whitsundays is a smaller spot that entices a mix of tourists, showcasing various travel styles, financial habits, and budget considerations. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Whitsundays can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including looking for discounts and coupons.

Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Whitsundays is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Brisbane or Hobart.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Whitsundays Expensive?

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays Islands (Tourism Whitsundays) Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays Islands (Tourism Whitsundays)

How much money do I need for a trip to Whitsundays?

The average Whitsundays trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Whitsundays travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Whitsundays cost?

Whitsundays on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$30
(AU$46) 		$69
(AU$106) 		$132
(AU$202)
Local Transportation1 $24
(AU$37) 		$55
(AU$84) 		$105
(AU$161)
Food2 $23
(AU$35) 		$52
(AU$79) 		$99
(AU$151)
Entertainment1 $11
(AU$17) 		$25
(AU$38) 		$48
(AU$73)
Alcohol2 $3-8
(AU$4-12) 		$6-18
(AU$9-28) 		$12-35
(AU$18-53)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to be realistic about your travel budget when visiting Whitsundays. Although some travelers believe they can get by on a shoestring budget, most people aren't comfortable with that type of travel. Consider what you enjoy on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you like staying in resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are dining out and visiting attractions a priority? Your preferences will affect your overall budget and itinerary.

The Truth on Budget Travel

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $68 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Whitsundays. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $154 per person, per day.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $295. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the destination, be prepared for premium pricing.



Accommodation Budget in Whitsundays

Whitsundays offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $, but during peak season, they can average $. Prices range from $ to $, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Whitsundays for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $138 (AU$211). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $69 (AU$106) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $69
    AU$106
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $138
    AU$211

Hotels in Whitsundays

Looking for a hotel in Whitsundays? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Whitsundays

If you plan to avoid and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.



Transportation Budget in Whitsundays

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $55 (AU$84) per person, per day, on local transportation in Whitsundays. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Whitsundays is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $55
    AU$84

Getting around islands is simple enough with buses and free shuttles to most destinations. Getting between the islands, however, requires the use of boats. There are several companies for hire ranging from the use of motorboats, catamarans, speedboats and sailboats.

Transportation Tips

Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.



Flights to Whitsundays
How much does it cost to go to Whitsundays? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Whitsundays
The price of renting a car in Whitsundays will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Whitsundays

Cuisine often serves as a primary motivation for travel, so make sure to indulge in the local dishes.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Whitsundays can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Whitsundays is $52 (AU$79) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $52
    AU$79

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Whitsundays is around $52 (AU$79) per person, with previous travelers spending from $23 to $99. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Whitsundays are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $15
  • Lunch: $8 to $21
  • Dinner: $15 to $36
  • Coffee: $4
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $8

Because the Whitsunday Islands are such a popular tourist destination, resorts offer five-star flavors with influences from all over the world. Not only do restaurants typically provide you with a filling meal, but you'll also have live music, entertainment and many feature wine bars. All of the resorts on the Whitsunday Island provide different dining experiences, so feel free to try a new one each night.

Food & Dining Tips

Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.

Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great way to help the environment.

Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Whitsundays, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Hamilton Island: Whitsundays Sunset Dinner Cruise for $99 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Whitsundays

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Whitsundays typically cost an average of $25 (AU$38) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $25
    AU$38

Naturally, you're most likely on the Whitsunday Islands to explore the Great Barrier Reef. However, don't miss out on the other things these islands have to offer.

Of all the above ground spots on the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach is the most iconic, of all the landmarks. The view along the 4.5-kilometer stretch of pristine beaches is absolutely magnificent. And if you think the sand here feels a little different between your toes, you're right. This sand is 98% pure silica and the combination with the crashing waves creates the perfect swimming situation.

For a chance to really feel like a local, take a walk along the Ngaro Sea Trail and travel in the footsteps of the traditional people of the Whitsunday area. This region is full of magnificent, natural beauty and a rich cultural history. These self-guided walks take you through campsites and waterways that are easily navigable by kayak or boat. As you wander along this trail you'll see Aboriginal cave paintings, the perfect view from Hill Inlet and the amazing sands of Whitehaven Beach.

And to catch a glimpse of land animals, take a leisurely cruise thought the Proserpine River wetlands. As you coast along you'll encounter the frightening saltwater crocodiles. These "salties," are extremely dangerous, but with an experienced tour guide leading you, gives you the chance to see the dinosaur relics up close and personal.

For more information about things to see and do in the area, check out this great itinerary for spending 4 days in the Whitsundays.



Arguably the most popular of the Whitsunday Islands is Hamilton Island. It serves as a play palace for the rich and famous with golf buggies on every paved road and white beaches full of water sports action. If you can afford it, there's plenty to do here. The high-end accommodations, restaurants and bars are may be out of your budget, but many amenities like tennis courts and minigolf are available to people visiting for the day. In front is Catseye Beach where stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, windsurfers, and catamarans are all for rent. If you'd rather stick to a little more rugged activity, take a hike on one of the many trails around the island. Passage Peak is one of the more challenging ones, for example. If you can make the final steep climb to the Hill Top Viewing Area, you won't be disappointed. The awe-inspiring view of the islands will certainly take your breath away.

It's likely that every activity you'll find in the Whitsunday Islands will revolve around the water. Snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, catamaran cruising - even plane rides tend to be seaplanes. While the Whitsunday Islands and beaches are lovely on their own, they're nothing compared to the magnificent world waiting under the sea.

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef, lies just beneath the surface of these islands. You can literally spend days exploring the vibrant colors and spectacular marine life swimming among the coral. If two days just isn't enough for you, many tour guides offer "liveaborads." Your stay can last anywhere from three to seven days - maybe more if you can handle it and are willing to pay.

A nice way to explore destinations in Whitsundays is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Full-Day Camira Sailing Adventure for $164 details
  • MILADY Whitsundays 2-Night Private Yacht Sailing Cruise for $4,953 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Whitsundays

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $12 (AU$19) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Whitsundays per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $12
    AU$19
Nightlife Tips

Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.



Travel cost data last updated: Aug 13, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Whitsundays

  • Traveling at a more relaxed pace can help you save money, giving you a chance to appreciate the stunning surroundings while you unwind. Packing your days with too many activities often leads to higher expenses. On the other hand, slowing down can lead to lower costs and a more enjoyable experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Whitsundays doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider renting a car or setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
  • Whitsundays isn't the best place for hostels, so if you're aiming for a budget dorm, you might want to rethink your plans. Checking for cheap hotels or apartment rentals is a better alternative.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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