White On Whitehaven

A bucket-list beachside long lunch where French champagne flows, fresh seafood sizzles, and the world's whitest sand is your dining room floor.

White on Whitehaven Tickets

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Getting to White on Whitehaven

About White on Whitehaven

White on Whitehaven is the Whitsundays' signature long lunch event - and quite possibly one of the most spectacular dining experiences in Australia. Every September, the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach transform into an open-air restaurant where guests dressed head-to-toe in white enjoy French champagne, fresh seafood, and live music with the turquoise Coral Sea as their backdrop.

The event has been running for several years and has grown into one of Queensland's most sought-after food experiences. Originally connected to the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, White on Whitehaven became a standalone event and now attracts over 700 guests each year from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and beyond. It's the only long lunch of its kind open to the public on Whitehaven Beach.

Hosted by Fish D'vine Catering - the award-winning Airlie Beach restaurant known for its incredible seafood - and proudly presented by 74 Islands Distillery, this is barefoot luxury at its finest. The vibe is relaxed but elegant, sophisticated but never stuffy. Think champagne in the sand, waitstaff serving desserts waist-deep in the water, and afternoon swims between courses. If you've ever dreamed of dining at one of the world's best beaches, this is your chance.

What to Expect at White on Whitehaven

Where is White on Whitehaven Held?

White on Whitehaven takes place on Whitehaven Beach itself - a 7km stretch of pure white silica sand on Whitsunday Island, consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world. The beach is only accessible by boat or seaplane, which makes the ferry cruise from Port of Airlie part of the experience. You'll cruise through the stunning Whitsunday Islands before arriving at this natural wonder.

The event sets up white marquees and long tables right on the sand, creating an elegant outdoor dining room with the Coral Sea as your view. The unique silica sand doesn't retain heat, so even in the sun it stays cool under your feet - perfect for barefoot dining.

What's Nearby

Since the event departs from and returns to Airlie Beach, you'll have plenty of options before and after:

• The Airlie Beach Lagoon is just a short walk from Port of Airlie - perfect for a morning coffee beforehand
• Head to Coral Sea Marina for sunset drinks after returning
• Plenty of restaurants in Airlie Beach if you're staying for dinner (though you'll probably be full!)
• The Bicentennial Walkway connects the marina to the main town - lovely for an evening stroll

What to Bring to White on Whitehaven

Getting There & Parking

Departure Point

All guests depart from Port of Airlie. Boarding begins at 9:00am for a 9:30am departure. Make sure to arrive with plenty of time - this is one ferry you don't want to miss!

Parking Options

• Port of Airlie parking: Paid parking available near the ferry terminal. Arrive early as spots fill up on event days.
• Airlie Beach town centre: Street parking and paid car parks available, then walk to Port of Airlie (about 5 minutes).
• Accommodation parking: If staying in Airlie Beach, leave your car at your hotel and walk or taxi to the port.

Transport Options

• Walking: Port of Airlie is walkable from most Airlie Beach accommodation (5-15 minutes from town centre)
• Taxi/Rideshare: Drop-off right at the port
• Shuttle transfers: Whitsunday Transit offers private transfers - call 07 4946 1800
• From Hamilton Island: Transfers not included in ticket price. Contact info@whiteonwhitehaven.com.au before booking to arrange island transfers

White on Whitehaven Highlights

White on Whitehaven has built a reputation as one of Queensland's most unforgettable dining experiences. Here's what's made it special over the years:

• 2024: Three days of perfect spring weather with over 700 guests enjoying St. Bebida's new cocktail range alongside the classic menu
• 2023: Expanded to three days due to overwhelming demand, with The Natural Culture providing live acoustic entertainment
• 2022: The post-pandemic comeback attracted guests from across Australia, cementing the event's bucket-list status
• 2018 & earlier: Originally part of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race celebrations

Tourism Whitsundays has called it "one of the most sought-after experiences in the Whitsundays" - with good reason. Many guests return year after year, and tickets consistently sell out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is White on Whitehaven family friendly?

White on Whitehaven is a licensed event with an all-inclusive drinks package, so it's best suited to adults. While there's no strict age limit, the atmosphere is geared toward a sophisticated long lunch experience rather than a family day out.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Absolutely. This event sells out every year, often within days of tickets going on sale. There are no tickets available on the day. Book through Airlie Events as soon as dates are announced.

What's included in the ticket price?

Everything. Your ticket covers return ferry transfers from Port of Airlie, welcome champagne and canapes, the full gourmet buffet lunch, desserts, and an all-day premium drinks package including Taittinger Champagne, wines, beers, cocktails and soft drinks.

Can I swim at the beach during the event?

Yes, and you should! Many guests bring swimmers and towels to cool off in the crystal-clear water between courses. It's part of the experience - waitstaff have been known to serve desserts while standing waist-deep in the sea.

What happens if it rains?

September is typically dry season in the Whitsundays with excellent weather. In the rare event of bad weather, the organisers will communicate directly with ticket holders about contingency plans.

Do I really have to wear white?

It's strongly encouraged. The all-white dress code creates the stunning visual effect that makes this event so unique and photogenic. Smart casual white attire is the way to go - leave the stilettos at home though, you'll be on sand!

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