Spend the night at Freedom Shores in Airlie Beach, Australia
Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. This means that the crowd comes for a boat trip. We understand, but don't forget the coastal town of Airlie Beach itself. The tropical weather makes it pleasant to stay all year round. Add to that the palm tree-lined beaches, waterfront parks, outdoor restaurants and markets and you have the laid back to capture the atmosphere. Oh, the tropical rainforest and waterfalls in Conway National Park are just around the corner.
And whatever lies there? Freedom Shores, hidden in the hills of Airlie Beach and one of the most unique resorts in the Whitsundays. Best described as a boutique resort experience with an ocean view.
Not right in the hustle and bustle, but wonderfully just outside of it. Freedom Shores is just a ten minute drive from Airlie Beach, making it a hidden gem. Nothing large scale, but only fourteen rooms. Bring on that intimate resort experience. It is guaranteed an experience and that is partly due to the various luxurious room types. First of all you have the nice looking twin boat bungalows. Yup, shaped like a boat and reminiscent of real boats, but including a plush queen bed, a well-designed bathroom, a minibar and an outside deck at the bow. Skipper, let us sail over. Then there are the larger resort suites, ideal for a small family or a larger group (because you can connect all three rooms together for one “super suite”). Either way, you get incredible ocean views, a king-size bed, and separate lounges with a queen-size sofa bed. The crème de la crème is the famous Beach Shack with a private beach and lounge and good for four people.
Ok, there's also a cherry on top. The Pioneer Bay Homestead in Freedom Shores has three airy bedrooms, all with king-size beds and private bathrooms. Of course with private access to the water. Whichever you choose, waking up in paradise is guaranteed. And wherever you stay, you can use the wonderfully heated swimming pool.
Surrounded by the sea, the good weather of Airlie Beach and the relaxed atmosphere, a stay here calls for a cold drink and a tasty bite. Turns out you've come to the perfect place for that too. As they say: You are never far from your next meal at Freedom Shores. From your cabin, suite or villa it is a maximum of five minutes' walk to the reception. Early bird? Then you may have already greeted some wallabies. In the morning, the free continental breakfast awaits you. Very good.
Make coffee or move on to lunch? Then meander across the lawn to Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill for lunch, dinner and afternoon cocktails by the water. They give a tropical twist to Australian classics. On the one hand you have the pub classics (delicious burgers!) to delicious seafood dishes (the shrimp are delicious). Have you set your eyes on the beach? Then choose a takeaway meal for your room or pool.
And do you have something to celebrate? At Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill they know how to throw a party (the posters in the restaurant are an example of this). And just saying: in the hills of Airlie Beach, Freedom Shores Resort is one of the most unique wedding venues in the Whitsundays.