What's new on the Whitsundays 2014

1. FLY SYDNEY TO WHITSUNDAY COAST DIRECT

Whitsunday Coast Airport

In April, Tigerair will commence direct services between Sydney and Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine). New developments, including the fresh feel and look of Airlie Beach, as well as the exciting new developments on the Whitsunday Islands, have boosted traveller's interest in the Whitsundays and Airlie Beach. According to Tigerair Australia's Commercial Director, Carly Brear, Tigerair has witnessed overwhelming demand from budget travellers wanting to gain easy access to Airlie Beach and surrounding areas.

The Whitsundays are accessible by air from Whitsunday Coast Airport, offering direct flights to Sydney and Brisbane, as well as from Great Barrier Reef Airport on Hamilton Island with direct flights to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns.

2. FRESH LOOK OF AIRLIE BEACH TOWN CENTRE

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is looking new and feeling fresh with its $20 million town centre upgrade now completed. Residents and visitors alike are excited about the contemporary look of the main street and the new atmosphere of Airlie Beach. Businesses are embracing the new look of Airlie Beach with more and more restaurants, cafes and retailers spilling out onto the street, introducing al fresco dining options and creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Visit the region and discover how Airlie has grown up from a backpacker town to a cosmopolitan, inviting and trendy place with everything from budget to 5 star accommodation, a gourmet selection of restaurants and plenty of activities you wouldn't expect in this marine based destination. www.discoverairliebeach.com

3. NEW BOUTIQUE RESORT AND RETREAT

Palm Bay Resort

Palm Bay Resort has officially re-launched, providing a fresh brand ethos and an innovative new concept. Palm Bay Resort is offering contemporary packages for events, product launches, unique boutique weddings and private isle occupancy for corporate and celebratory group experiences in the picturesque cove of Long Island. Offering private beach bure style accommodation for up to 30 couples, the property caters to groups seeking an alternative to a typical hotel environment and guarantees exclusivity for its group guests. Palm Bay Resort is working in conjunction with some of Australia's contemporary and unique wedding, catering, wellness and event specialists. By aligning with regional boutique yacht, dive and scenic tour operators, the resort ensures that guests can enjoy the full Whitsunday experience before returning to the seclusion of their own private beach.www.palmbayhideaway.com.au

4. WHITSUNDAY SUP CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY

Whitsunday Stand Up Paddle

Whitsunday Stand Up Paddle recently celebrated it's one year anniversary. Whitsunday Stand Up Paddle operates from the picturesque Shingley Beach, near Abell Point Marina and is extremely popular amongst young and old, both locals and visitors (Number 1 activity on TripAdvisor!). From introductory Stand up paddle (SUP) lessons to SUP hire and tours - Whitsunday SUP will get you hooked on the world's fastest growing water sport. Try something new on your next Whitsundays holiday! www.whitsundaystanduppaddle.com.au

5. CAMP OUT UNDER MILLIONS OF STARS

Cruise Whitsundays Reefsleep

Feel the solitude of the reef without the hoardes and camp out under millions of stars at the Great Barrier Reef with Reefsleep. At the end of last year, Cruise Whitsundays announced the long awaited return of the Reefsleep product. Reefsleep offers a truly unique and exclusive Great Barrier Reef experience without the high price tag. Camp out in premium swags - right in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef. The stars offer a spectacular sight at night and Reefsleep allows guests to have more time exploring the colourful underwater world on their own. www.cruisewhitsundays.om

6. NEW AL-FRESCO DINING

Capers on the Esplanade

A popular spot in the Airlie Beach restaurant precinct, Capers, has recently undergone renovations and has now re-opened, introducing an exciting al-fresco dining option by the beachfront. The restaurant offers contemporary Australian dining experiences, superb views of the Coral Sea and excellent breakfast and lunch options. Psst...a new favourite among visitors and locals is 'Sunday's pig on a spit' - together with live music entertainment and a great selection of craft beers this makes for the perfect Sunday afternoon. www.airliebeachhotel.com.au/capers/

7. WHITSUNDAY REGION INFORMATION CENTRE OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Hill Inlet, Whitsehaven Beach

The Whitsunday Region Information Centre was re-opened at the end of last year, providing a hub of information for visitors to the Whitsundays region. The Centre is located on the Bruce Highway in Proserpine and provides information and booking services together with refreshments and souvenirs. Despite the fact that the internet has become such an important source of information, visitors still flock to the centre to receive tips and advice first hand. The friendly staff provide local insights and point visitors in the right direction. For information or booking enquiries, the Whitsunday Region Information Centre can be contacted on (07) 4945 3967.www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au