Daydream Island is a small resort island located in Queensland’s Whitsundays Islands and is smack in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef. In 2018 the resort got a 140 million dollar facelift, and the rooms and experience reflect the recent upgrades. The island is only one km in length and 400 meters at its widest point.
We spent four days and three nights on the little island and thought it was the perfect trip length. The resort has a range of activities to suit all tastes. Whether you want to explore the local waters with a snorkeling tour or enjoy drinks on the sand, DayDream has it all.
Things to Do at Daydream Island
Below I’ve collected a list of fun activities they offer at the resort.
Go Snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the top ten places to see before you die and is only a short boat ride away from DayDream Island. There are plenty of snorkeling spots to choose from, including snorkeling trails and swim-throughs, so no matter what your skill level is, you’ll find something to enjoy.
The best time to go snorkeling in coral reefs is between May and October, when water temperatures are warm, and it doesn’t rain as much. However, you can go year-round, and you’re guaranteed to see colorful fish, coral, and if you’re lucky, a shark or turtle. If you’re planning to go snorkeling during your stay, be sure to book in advance to secure your spot on a boat.
Have a Relaxing Day at DayDream Island Resort
After a couple of days of exploring the island, you’re probably in need of a relaxing day. The DayDream Island Resort is the perfect place for a relaxing day.
You can lay by the pool or beach and soak up the sun for 12 months of the year. You’ll also be surrounded by kangaroos, wallaroos, and cockatoos! You can enjoy the swim-up bar and have a piña colada and get some R&R.
Bingo & Trivia Nights DayDream Island
The bingo and trivia nights on DayDream Island are relatively informal and are a great way to meet other travelers and locals. These events are a lot of fun and are a great way to spend your evenings. DayDream Island employees also run lots of other activities like games, outdoor movies, guided water tours, and nature talks.
Whitehaven Beach Tour
If you’re looking to experience one of the top ten beaches in the world, then you can’t miss the Whitehaven Beach Tour. Whitehaven Beach is a beautiful beach that is often compared to tropical beaches in the Caribbean. The sand on this beach is made of 98% silica, which gives it a white color and makes it feel scratchy.
We were thrilled with our half-day tour - the color of the water was jarring and crystal clear. If you make it to the Whitsundays, don’t miss Whitehaven Beach!
Tour the DayDream Island Underwater Observatory
Don’t miss this incredible living reef on DayDream Island. It’s like an on-site aquarium that features tons of local fish and wildlife. You can see the shovelnose rays, stingrays, black tip sharks, and local fish species up close.
You can also meet with their local marine biologist staff, watch feedings, and even snorkel in their manmade coral lagoon. We enjoyed watching the fish and sharks swim by while we were having breakfast. This observatory extends around to the breakfast venue.
Paddleboard Tour
Paddleboarding is a great way to explore the waters surrounding DayDream Island. This is a great activity for people of all skill levels and is a great way to get out on the water. You can either paddleboard around the Lover’s Cove or take a tour with guides and further explore the Whitsunday Coast.
18 Hole Golf Day at Dent Island
If you’re a golf enthusiast, you can’t miss this 18-hole golf course on Dent Island. This is one of the best golf courses in the southern hemisphere and is the only course in the Whitsundays. The course is open to visitors year-round and is a great way to spend a few hours. It’s a very picturesque course; you can see the surrounding islands while playing.
Jet Ski Tours Around the Whitsundays
If you’re looking for some adventure during your stay, then jet ski tours are the perfect thing to add to your trip. The water was pretty cold while we were there in July, but jet skiing is a great way to tour DayDream and the surrounding islands.
DayDream Island Restaurants
Daydream Island has three great restaurants: Graze, Infinity, and Inkstone Kitchen & Bar. We found the food to be surprisingly good. Infinity was the nicest restaurant, so we spent our first and last nights there watching the sunset over the ocean.
Be sure to book your meals beforehand. You can walk in somewhere, but they do fill up, and you’re better off with a reservation.
How to Get to DayDream Island
You’ll want to fly into Hamilton Island and then take a 40-minute ferry to DayDream Island on Whitsunday Cruises. If you book a package through the resort, you might get a free ferry transfer.
Otherwise, you can fly through Airlie Beach, but then you’ll have to make two ferry connections - first at Hamilton Island, then over to DayDream Island.
FAQs
Is DayDream Island expensive?
I would say it’s pretty comparable with everything else in the Whitsunday region and is probably cheaper than the famous Hamilton Island.
Where to stay on DayDream Island
There’s only one place to stay on DayDream Island, the DayDream Island Resort. The rooms all feature air conditioning and incredible views of the Whitsundays.
Where is DayDream Island located?
DayDream Island is located 5km off the coast of Queensland, east of Airlie Beach. It’s part of the Molle Group, which are seven islands in the Whitsundays located in the Great Barrier Reef.
Is DayDream Island worth visiting?
Definitely! It’s stunning and offers a quiet retreat from the busy pace of many of Australia’s main cities. The wildlife is something you’ll never forget.
Map of DayDream Island
Daydream Island vs. Hamilton Island
DayDream Island is a bit smaller and quieter than Hamilton. Its size makes it great for families with kids or couples wanting to enjoy an intimate vacation. Hamilton has more choices in terms of activities, dining, and exploring. But both are stunning, and you can access the stunning Whitehaven Beach from both.
Can you do a DayDream Island Tour?
Yes! If you just want to pop over for the day, you’re welcome to and can access DayDream from Airlie Beach port or Hamilton Island.
Conclusion
No matter what activities you choose during your stay, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time on this unique island. DayDream is a must-do if you’re touring the Whitsundays.
Happy Birthday, Rasmus!
And wishing a very happy 27th birthday to my handsome husband. We did this trip as a part of our larger celebration. I'm so thankful to have him by my side in our adventures.