The Aboriginal name for Whitehaven Beach translates as “Whispering Sands” and is located on the east coast of Whitsunday Island, the largest island in the Whitsunday Group. This island formed the centre of Ngaro life, early accounts suggest a population of about 100 people and the island was the permanent area of habitation. The Ngaro people were noted for their distinctive sewn three-piece canoes, crafted from ironbark and known as ‘winta’. Interestingly, the entries in Captain James Cook’s Endeavour journals prove that by 1770, the first contact date with Europeans, outriggers were already employed in this area. The waters adjacent to Whitehaven Beach are located in a Marine National Park (Green) Zone. This is designed to provide protection, natural integrity and support the values of the Marine Park … ‘take only pictures leave only footprints’, while also giving the opportunity for certain activities. Including the presentation and enjoyment of the Marine Park, and for the on going care of this unique area for our future generations. Whitehaven Beach is a ‘must see’ while you are in the Whitsundays … and its beauty will take your breath away!