Whitehaven Beach is ideal for those seeking a secluded natural escape, while South Beach is better suited for visitors looking for a lively beach experience with convenient access to amenities and services.
| Attribute | Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia | South Beach, Miami, Florida, USA |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia | South Beach, Miami, Florida, USA |
| Sand color | Dazzling white, 98.9% pure silica | Golden-brown (though some sources mention white sand, the current sand is dredged from other areas) |
| Water clarity | Crystal clear and turquoise, due to fine sediment | Clear turquoise waters (sometimes referred to as crystal-clear) |
| Accessibility | Boat, seaplane, or helicopter, 25km east of Airlie Beach | Well-equipped for visitors with disabilities; ramps and paved pathways from Ocean Drive to the sand; beach mats for wheelchair navigation; free beach wheelchairs available; accessible restrooms and outdoor showers near lifeguard towers |
| Crowd level | Attracts many tourists, can get crowded during peak season, 7 km length allows finding less crowded spots | Crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons |
| Available activities | Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, hiking to Hill Inlet, beach walks, picnicking | Sunbathing, swimming, people-watching, bike/skate rentals, surf lessons, walking tours, jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, boat tours, windsurfing |
| Natural beauty | Renowned for stunning natural beauty, Hill Inlet is a highlight, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world | Encompasses beaches like South Pointe Park & Beach and Lummus Park; Lummus Park has expansive green spaces and palms; South Pointe Park Beach has grassy areas and palm trees |
| Cleanliness | Known for cleanliness, aided by high silica content, Queensland's Cleanest Beach in 2008 | Pristine sands |
| Wildlife presence | Marine life includes baby lemon sharks, stingrays, turtles, and fish. Land animals include goannas (lace monitor lizards) and birds | Sea turtles, stingrays, jellyfish, and dolphins |
| Nearby amenities | Public restroom facilities at South Whitehaven Beach, picnic spots at the south end, no shops or cafes | Many restaurants, shops, and restroom facilities nearby; Lummus Park is across the street from historic Art Deco hotels and outdoor cafes |
| Cost to visit | No entrance fees, costs involve transportation and camping permits | Expensive; parking meters $1">–$4/hour, city garages $15">–$20/day, hotel valet $40">–$60/day; beach chair and umbrella rentals $20-40 daily; street parking may increase to $6/hour for non-city residents |
| Weather conditions | Sub-tropical climate, average temperatures between 23-30 degrees Celsius year-round. Dry season from May to October | Summer is hot and humid; average temperatures around 84">–$F in June, increasing to around 87">–$F in August; average humidity around 75%; average sea temperature around 86">–$F |
| Lifeguard availability | No lifeguards stationed on Whitehaven Beach | Lifeguards on duty typically from 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (sometimes 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM); advised to swim near a lifeguard |