Scenic 4km coastal boardwalk connecting Airlie Beach to Cannonvale
Key Information
Route:
Airlie Beach Lagoon to Cannonvale Beach
Distance:
4km one way (8km return)
Duration:
1.5β2 hours return walk
Difficulty:
Easy, flat, well-maintained
About Bicentennial Walkway
The Bicentennial Walkway is a stunning 4-kilometre coastal boardwalk and pathway connecting Airlie Beach to neighbouring Cannonvale. Constructed in 1988 as part of Australia's Bicentennial Celebrations, this popular pedestrian route hugs the foreshore along the Coral Sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise waters and Whitsunday Islands throughout the entire journey.
The walkway features a mix of sealed pathways and raised timber boardwalks, winding past the Airlie Beach Lagoon, Coral Sea Marina, Shingley Beach, and various waterfront cafes and restaurants before reaching Cannonvale Beach. Flat, accessible, and well-maintained, the track is perfect for walking, running, cycling, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll whilst soaking up the laid-back tropical atmosphere. The walkway is popular with locals and visitors alike, offering one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the Whitsundays coastline.
The Route: What You'll See
π Starting Point: Airlie Beach Lagoon
Begin at the iconic free swimming lagoon in the heart of Airlie Beach. The wooden boardwalk starts here, offering immediate coastal views.
β Coral Sea Marina
Pass by Australia's largest privately owned marina with stunning views of luxury yachts, superyachts, and commercial vessels. Stop at Sorrento's for refreshments with panoramic marina views.
πΏ Coastal Scenery
Enjoy tropical landscaping, bougainvillea displays, palm trees, and mangroves along the route. Spot Pigeon Island and Double Cone Island in the distance.
ποΈ Shingley Beach
Pass this rocky tidal beach with opportunities to see turtles and marine life. Connection point to Turtle Boardwalk.
ποΈ End Point: Cannonvale Beach
Arrive at Cannonvale Beach parklands with playground, skate park, outdoor exercise area, and grassy picnic zones. Spectacular views across the Coral Sea.
Features & Facilities
Easy Walking
Flat, well-maintained pathways and boardwalks. Suitable for all fitness levels, prams, wheelchairs
Cafes & Restaurants
Multiple dining stops along the route including marina cafes and waterfront restaurants
Amenities
Public toilets at lagoon, marina, and Cannonvale Beach. Drinking water available
Scenic Views
Panoramic Coral Sea vistas, Whitsunday Islands, marina views, coastal landscapes throughout
Public Transport
Bus stop at Cannonvale with bi-hourly service back to Airlie Beach. Walk one way, bus return
Photo Opportunities
Countless spots for capturing tropical landscapes, marina sunsets, and coastal beauty
Popular Activities
πΆββοΈ Walking
Leisurely strolls, brisk walks, or full 8km return hikes at your own pace
π Running & Jogging
Flat terrain perfect for morning runs and fitness training with ocean breeze
π΄ Cycling
Bike-friendly pathways ideal for casual cycling and exploring both towns
π΄ Segway Tours
Guided segway tours available offering unique way to explore the boardwalk
π Dog Walking
Dog-friendly route popular with locals walking their pets, especially early morning
π½οΈ Cafe Hopping
Popular day activity combining the walk with stops at various cafes and restaurants
Why Walk the Bicentennial Walkway?
Best coastal views β Stunning panoramas of Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands throughout
Free and accessible β No cost, suitable for all ages and abilities including wheelchairs and prams
Year-round beauty β Tropical climate means gorgeous walking conditions any time of year
Connect two towns β Experience both Airlie Beach and Cannonvale in one scenic journey
Multiple attractions β Pass lagoon, marina, beaches, cafes, and restaurants along the way
Local favourite β Popular with residents for morning exercise, dog walking, and evening strolls
Visitor Tips
- Best times: Early morning (cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, stunning sunrise) or late afternoon/sunset (golden hour views, pleasant evening breeze).
- Sun protection essential: Limited shade along most of the route. Bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water bottle. The tropical Queensland sun is intense even on overcast days.
- Stay hydrated: Carry water, especially during warmer months. Refill opportunities at cafes along the route.
- One way or return: Walk the full 8km return, or walk one way (4km) and catch the bus back to Airlie Beach from Cannonvale (bi-hourly service).
- Cafe hopping: Popular local activity involves walking the boardwalk whilst stopping at various cafes and restaurants. The Fat Frog, Sorrento's, and marina cafes are favourites.
- Wildlife spotting: Keep eyes open for turtles near Shingley Beach, fish in the shallows, and various seabirds along the route.
- Cyclone repairs: The walkway was upgraded and repaired after Cyclone Debbie. Sections are now even better maintained.
- Photography: Bring your camera or phone for endless photo opportunities, particularly at sunset with marina yachts and island silhouettes.
- Take your time: Allow 1.5β2 hours for a leisurely return walk with stops for photos and refreshments.
Points of Interest Along the Way
π Airlie Beach Lagoon
Free swimming pool and starting point. Perfect for a pre-walk swim or post-walk cool down.
β Coral Sea Marina
Australia's largest private marina with restaurants, cafes, resort, and luxury yachts. Sorrento's upstairs deck offers best sunset views.
πΊ Bougainvillea Displays
Vibrant tropical flowers and landscaping in front of waterfront apartments provide colourful photo opportunities.
ποΈ Shingley Beach
Rocky tidal beach with connection to Turtle Boardwalk. Good for wildlife spotting including turtles.
ποΈ Cannonvale Parklands
End point with skate park, outdoor exercise equipment, playground, and grassy areas. Great for families.
Good to Know
β Built in 1988 for Australian Bicentennial
β 4km one way, 8km return journey
β Flat, easy terrain for all fitness levels
β Wheelchair and pram accessible
β Dog-friendly route
β Open 24/7 year-round
β Completely free to use
β Well-maintained sealed paths and boardwalks
Route: Airlie Beach to Cannonvale (4km coastal walkway)
Location: Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Queensland
Best Season: Year-round (cooler mornings/evenings during summer)