Airlie Beach, Australia

A gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, water sports are the main attraction here, from kayaking to water skiing. Take a day-trip to Whitsunday Island and Whitehaven Beach, one of the most-photographed places in Australia, with gorgeous turquoise, clear water and sugar-white sand. Airlie’s manmade lagoon in the heart of town is ideal for relaxing, swimming or even having a picnic – spend an hour there or two. If getting a move on is more your speed, head out to the Bicentennial Walkway for a walk or short bike ride.