Whitsunday Islands National Park, Marine reserve in Queensland, Australia.
Whitsunday Islands National Park encompasses 32 islands spanning approximately 170 square kilometers, featuring white sand beaches, coral reefs, and dense tropical vegetation. The landscape is shaped by continental islands offering diverse coastal features and habitats.
The area was designated as a national park by the Queensland government on March 24, 2000, to protect its marine ecosystems. This protection status marked an important step in conserving the natural and cultural resources of the region.
The Ngaro Aboriginal people maintained deep connections with these islands for thousands of years, and their archaeological sites remain visible across the landscape. Visitors can recognize these traces of ancient occupation while exploring the natural environment.
Visitors reach the islands through boat services departing from Airlie Beach or Shute Harbor, with camping areas available across different locations. Water transport is the primary access route, so visitors should plan boat options in advance.
Between May and September, humpback whales use the protected waters around the islands as calving grounds during their annual migration. This natural spectacle makes this season particularly special for marine wildlife observation.
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