Whitehaven Beach is truly white and definitely a haven. The first thing I wanted to do when the catamaran arrived was jump in the aquamarine water. The water was so clear I could see the bottom for miles, and as soon as I touched the beach with my feet, I could hear the sand squeaking between my toes.
The sand was remarkably
cool to the touch, somewhat unusual given the high temperatures. It is likely
to do with its composition. Unlike any other beaches in the Whitsundays, where
the sand is coarser, Whitehaven has fine white sand that is 98% silica. Geologists
believe that the sand drifted along the Queensland coast, just like the sand on
Fraser Island, millions of years ago. As the sea levels rose and fell, over
time, the freshwater washed away any impurities leaving behind this perfectly
soft sandy beach for us to enjoy.
At the north end of
Whitehaven Beach was the entrance to Hill Inlet, composed of huge swirls of
sand and pale blue-green water. Best seen from Hill Inlet Lookout, it was a
short hike through dense rainforest. The views from the top were exquisite,
with three viewing platforms providing different vantage points. Keeping my
eyes peeled, I searched for the chance to see stingrays gliding in the clear
waters below.
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It's so good to see you here . . .