One of of Australia's most photogenic and hyped beaches, Whitehaven is a pristine 7km-long stretch of blinding sand (at 98% pure silica, some of the whitest in the world) framed by lush vegetation and a brilliant blue sea. From Hill Inlet at the northern end of the beach, the swirling pattern of dazzling sand through the turquoise and aquamarine water paints a magical picture. Also offering good snorkelling, it's on the day-tour itineraries of nearly all Airlie-based operators.