Man-made beach with stinger net protection for safe ocean swimming
Key Information
Location:
The Beacons, Port of Airlie
Airlie Beach QLD 4802
Distance from Town:
10-minute walk or 2-minute drive
Type:
Man-made beach with stinger net
Stinger Net Season:
November to May (stinger season)
About Boathaven Beach
Boathaven Beach is a beautiful man-made beach located on a small peninsula known as "The Beacons," adjacent to Port of Airlie Marina. This pristine white sand beach is one of the few places in Airlie Beach where visitors can safely swim in the ocean year-round, thanks to a large stinger net that protects swimmers from box jellyfish and other marine stingers during the dangerous stinger season (November to May).
Just a 10-minute walk from the heart of Airlie Beach, Boathaven Beach offers a peaceful alternative to the busy town lagoon. The beach features soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning views across the Coral Sea to Pigeon Island and Double Cone Island, and rock walls at either end perfect for fishing. With its sheltered location and man-made design, the beach is less affected by tides than natural beaches in the area, ensuring consistent water depth for swimming. Limited facilities include public bathrooms and parking, making it an accessible spot for a relaxed beach day.
Swimming Safety & Stinger Net
Safe Ocean Swimming: Boathaven Beach is one of the few beaches in downtown Airlie Beach with a stinger net, making it the safest option for ocean swimming. The large square net is secured in the water to prevent box jellyfish and large marine stingers from entering the swimming area.
πͺΌ Stinger Net Protection
The stinger net significantly reduces the risk of jellyfish encounters. Checked regularly by council and the stinger net provider, the net provides a generous, safe swimming area for families and visitors.
β οΈ Important Safety Note
No stinger net is 100% effective. Small jellyfish, particularly Irukandji (which can cause dangerous Irukandji Syndrome), may occasionally slip through. Swimming outside the netted area is not recommended during stinger season (November to May).
π Extra Precaution
For additional protection during stinger season, visitors can wear a stinger suit whilst swimming. Many tourists swim comfortably within the netted area without suits, but stinger suits provide extra peace of mind.
π Stinger Season
Stinger nets are installed from November to May each year when box jellyfish and Irukandji are present in tropical North Queensland waters. Outside this season (June to October), ocean swimming is generally safe even without nets.
Beach Features & Facilities
White Sand Beach
Soft white sand perfect for sunbathing, beach games, and building sandcastles with children
Calm Waters
Sheltered location provides calm, clear turquoise water ideal for families with young children. No big waves
Public Amenities
Public bathrooms and shower facilities available. Drinking water taps nearby
Parking
Plenty of public parking spaces available nearby. Easily accessible by car or on foot
Fishing Spots
Rock walls at both ends of the beach provide excellent fishing opportunities for barramundi, mangrove jack, and more
Scenic Views
Beautiful views across the Coral Sea to Pigeon Island and Double Cone Island. Marina views at one end
What Makes Boathaven Beach Special
π Safe Ocean Swimming
One of the only beaches in Airlie Beach where you can safely swim in the ocean thanks to the stinger net protection. Perfect alternative to the man-made lagoon for those wanting a genuine ocean experience.
π Tide-Resistant
Unlike other beaches in Airlie Beach that become muddy puddles at low tide, Boathaven Beach maintains consistent water depth due to its man-made design. No need to walk 200 metres to reach swimmable water.
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Family-Friendly
Calm, shallow waters perfect for children to splash around safely. No big waves, clear visibility, and protected swimming area make it ideal for families.
π Peaceful & Quiet
Less crowded than the main lagoon, offering a more tranquil beach experience. Perfect for relaxing with a book, having a picnic, or enjoying the serenity.
πΆ Easy Access
Only 10 minutes' walk from Airlie Beach town centre along paved footpaths. Most accessible beach for those without a car. Close to Port of Airlie Marina with cafes and restaurants.
Why Visit Boathaven Beach?
Safe ocean swimming year-round β Stinger net protection during jellyfish season
Beautiful white sand β Soft, pristine beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxing
Close to town β Just 10 minutes' walk from Airlie Beach main street
Calm, clear water β Sheltered location with no big waves, ideal for families
Less crowded β Quieter alternative to the busy lagoon with peaceful atmosphere
Fishing opportunities β Rock walls at both ends perfect for casting a line
Visitor Tips
- Bring supplies: No restaurants, cafes, or shops directly on the beach. Pack food, drinks, and snacks. Port of Airlie Marina is nearby with dining options.
- Limited shade: Very little natural shade on the beach. Bring an umbrella, beach tent, or pop-up shade. Can get very hot during summer.
- Sun protection: Essential to bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. The tropical Queensland sun is intense year-round.
- Stinger season precaution: While the stinger net provides protection, consider wearing a stinger suit during NovemberβMay for extra safety, especially with young children.
- Swimming area: Only swim within the marked stinger net area. Swimming outside the net is not recommended during stinger season.
- Best times: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat. Beautiful for sunset watching with marina views.
- Walking access: 10-minute walk from Airlie Beach town centre along paved footpath. Easy, flat walk suitable for all fitness levels.
- Parking: Free public parking available nearby. Easier to find parking here than at the lagoon.
- Fishing: Bring fishing gear for rock wall fishing at either end of the beach. Live bait works well for barramundi and mangrove jack.
- Dogs: Officially not permitted in the swimming area, though enforcement varies. Check current regulations before visiting with pets.
What's Nearby
β Port of Airlie
Adjacent to the beach. Ferry terminal, waterfront dining, cafes, and marina facilities.
ποΈ Airlie Beach Main Street
10-minute walk to town centre with shops, restaurants, bars, and supermarkets.
π Airlie Beach Lagoon
10-minute walk to the free public swimming lagoon with lifeguards and facilities.
πΆ Bicentennial Walkway
Access the scenic coastal boardwalk connecting to Coral Sea Marina and Cannonvale.
ποΈ Saturday Markets
Weekly markets on Airlie Beach esplanade with local crafts and produce.
Good to Know
β Man-made beach on The Beacons peninsula
β Stinger net protection NovemberβMay
β 10-minute walk from Airlie Beach centre
β Less affected by tides than natural beaches
β Calm waters, no big waves
β Public bathrooms and showers available
β Rock walls for fishing at both ends
β Also known as "New Beach" by locals
Location: The Beacons, Port of Airlie
Region: Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Queensland
Best Season: Year-round (stinger net NovemberβMay)