Free public swimming lagoon on the Airlie Beach waterfront
Key Information
Location:
Airlie Beach Esplanade (eastern end)
Between Shingley Drive and foreshore walkway
Opening Hours:
Daily, approximately 6amโ7pm
(Hours vary seasonally)
Entry Fee:
Free, no booking required
Parking:
Paid parking at north and south ends
About Airlie Beach Lagoon
Airlie Beach Lagoon is a 4,000-square-metre saltwater swimming facility located on the Airlie Beach waterfront. This free, lifeguard-patrolled pool serves as the town's primary swimming venue and social hub, offering safe year-round swimming without the risks of marine stingers or wildlife present in the surrounding Coral Sea.
The lagoon provides safe swimming alternatives to Airlie Beach's ocean waters, which experience seasonal box jellyfish and irukandji presence (NovemberโMay) and occasional saltwater crocodile activity. The facility eliminates marine hazards whilst offering stunning views across Pioneer Bay and the Whitsunday Passage. The varied depth profile makes it suitable for all ages and swimming abilities, from infants in the dedicated baby pool to confident swimmers in the deeper zones.
Swimming Areas & Depths
Water Depths: Up to 2 metres maximum depth. Approximately 70% of the lagoon sits at around 1 metre deep, with extensive shallow zones throughout the perimeter perfect for children and nervous swimmers.
๐ Main Swimming Zones
Multiple swimming areas with depths ranging from shallow paddling zones to 2 metres. Central areas feature 1-2 metre depths ideal for confident swimmers.
๐ถ Infant Pool
Dedicated infant pool located at the north end near the playground with shallow areas specifically designed for toddlers and babies.
๐๏ธ Shallow Zones
Extensive shallow areas around the lagoon perimeter with sandy, beach-style edges. Perfect for young children and non-confident swimmers.
๐๏ธ Manmade Beach
Sandy beach area at one end of the lagoon provides a tropical resort feel with gentle water entry.
Facilities & Amenities
Family Facilities
Children's playground at north end, infant pool, shallow children's section, lifeguard supervision
Changing Facilities
Multiple changing rooms, bathroom facilities, public showers throughout the precinct
Outdoor Areas
Large grassy sunbaking areas, shaded seating zones, covered picnic areas, landscaped tropical gardens
BBQ Facilities
Free electric BBQ facilities, picnic tables, plenty of space for family gatherings
Pedestrian Bridge
Bridge crossing connects both sides of the lagoon for easy access around the entire facility
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible pathways, ramps to water, accessible amenities throughout
Dining at the Lagoon
โ Wisdom Cafe
Located at the lagoon offering coffee, breakfast, and light meals with lagoon-side seating.
View Details โ๐ณ Airlie Beach Treehouse
Lagoon-side dining with tropical ambience, perfect for post-swim meals and refreshments.
View Details โLagoon Layout & Zones
๐ North End
Infant pool, shallow children's section, playground, paid parking available
๐ Central Area
Main swimming zones (1-2 metres depth), pedestrian bridge crossing, grassy sunbaking areas
๐ Perimeter
Shallow zones ideal for young children and nervous swimmers, sandy beach-style edges
๐ South End
Manmade beach area, paid parking available
๐ Throughout
Shaded picnic areas, BBQ facilities, bathroom amenities, changing rooms, tropical landscaping
Why Visit Airlie Beach Lagoon?
Safe year-round swimming โ No stingers, no crocodiles, no marine hazards
Completely free โ No entry fees, bookings, or hidden costs
Family-friendly facilities โ Infant pool, playground, shallow zones, lifeguard supervision
Stunning location โ Views across Pioneer Bay and Whitsunday Passage
Central location โ Walking distance to shops, restaurants, marina, and tours
All abilities welcome โ Wheelchair accessible with facilities for everyone
Visitor Tips
- Parking: Paid parking available at both north and south ends. Arrive early on weekends for best availability.
- What to bring: Towels, sunscreen, hat, water bottle. Bring shade for peak sun hours.
- Best times: Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Early morning offers calm conditions; sunset provides beautiful atmosphere.
- Family tip: The north end with the playground and infant pool is ideal for families with young children.
- Bridge access: Use the pedestrian bridge to easily move between both sides of the lagoon.
- Dining: On-site cafes offer convenience for meals and refreshments without leaving the precinct.
- No stinger suits needed: Unlike ocean swimming NovemberโMay, the lagoon is safe year-round.
- Alcohol policy: No alcohol permitted in the lagoon precinct (family-friendly space).
What's Nearby
๐๏ธ Airlie Beach Markets
Saturday mornings on the esplanade. Local crafts, produce, breakfast options.
โ Port of Airlie
Marina Village with Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach tour departures.
๐ถ Bicentennial Walkway
1.2km scenic coastal boardwalk connecting Airlie Beach to Cannonvale.
๐ฝ๏ธ Dining Precinct
Main street restaurants, cafes, and bars within easy walking distance.
๐ฅ๏ธ Coral Sea Marina
10-minute walk north with additional cafes, shops, and tour operators.
Good to Know
โ No stinger suits required year-round
โ Popular with locals and families
โ Free BBQ facilities for budget travellers
โ Well-maintained and cleaned regularly
โ Walking distance to most accommodation
โ Suitable for all ages and abilities
โ Multiple amenities blocks throughout
โ Busiest JuneโSeptember (peak season)
Contact: Whitsunday Regional Council
Region: Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia
Best Season: Year-round (busiest JuneโSeptember)