Bowen Ocean Swims

Take a dip or a splash in the cool and refreshing Whitsunday’s crystal clear ocean.

No need to worry about the stingers. As stinger season runs from October – May the ocean is mostly clear of Irukandji and the infamous Box Jellyfish.

From the cooler, clearer waters, blue skies it is the perfect time to swim.

Since it’s the ideal time, check out some of Bowen’s beautiful beach spots. Bowen has some amazing beaches and each has its own charm.

Horseshoe Bay

This cosy bay is regularly at the top of the ‘best beaches’ list and that’s no surprise. The white sand and crystal-clear water make it one of Bowen’s favourites. A spectacular coral reef awaits you just meters offshore and Bowen is one of the few places on the Queensland coast where you can snorkel right off the beach. The special underwater Bywa structure is also located just off Horseshoe Bay. The Bywa was installed in 2019 as part of the Whitsunday Reef Recovery Art Project and it is a delight for snorkellers.

Grays Bay

One of the most picturesque bays in Queensland and a beautiful spot for sunsets. Grays Bay offers great access to the water with its boat ramp. It is also a great spot for families with free barbecues and a shady playground area at the nearby Lion’s Park.

For the more adventurous, the water at Grays Bay is perfect for some jet-skiing or other water sports like stand-up paddle boarding.

Kings Beach

An ideal spot to take the dog, Kings Beach allows dogs off leash all the time. It’s beautiful and undeveloped but that often means you can the place to yourself, it’s the perfect beach to hang out with a friend.

Murray Bay

With access to the beach down a narrow track, the anticipation lives up to what awaits you. Once there the lookout is incredible, and the coconut trees make it feel like a tropical paradise. Murray Bay is a favourite for photographers, snorkellers, divers and fishers. You’ll love it too.

Queens Beach

At five kilometres long, Queens Beach is Bowen’s longest beach. It stretches from ‘The Pocket’ on Horseshoe Bay Road to Yasso Point and the Don River mouth. Along the beach there are several parks with free barbecues, large playgrounds, and Sunday markets. The sandy shore offers a great spot for various activities such as beachcombing, fishing or just walking and enjoying the sunset. If the stunning view doesn’t motivate you for exercise, then maybe the kilometres of walking and bicycle tracks will or maybe the free exercise equipment.

Front Beach

Located at the foreshore, this beach is the ideal pull up area for travellers, day-trippers, locals and visiting families. The foreshore area includes a community soundshell event space, Catalina Memorial and information kiosk. The area is completed with a replica of the Big Mango. Read all about Bowen’s role in Baz Luhrmann’s Australia. Families and groups can relax as there are picnic areas, amenities, playgrounds, a skatepark and a free water park for kids. Take a walk along Bowen’s historic jetty and catch a fish or spot a green sea turtle.

Rose Bay

This award-winning beach offers lovely views of Gloucester Island and of Mother Beddock. Away from city centre this gorgeous beach offers serenity, charm and colourful coral. This beach is great for snorkelling. Attached to the beach is also free barbecues, tables and a playground, making it a great place for families.

Coral Bay

Secluded and hidden away between Horseshoe Bay and Grays Bay, this beach is Bowen’s clothing-optional beach. Follow the bush track for access to this beach or ask a local.

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