Proserpine probably isn’t the first town that springs to mind when you think of Queensland’s gorgeous Whitsundays region, but that’s exactly why it’s magical. It’s off the map, still quirky as hell, and it’s surprisingly easy to get to.

 

We Are Explorers acknowledges that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Gia people who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

 

The Queensland town of Proserpine offers a slower pace, friendly locals, and easy access to some of Australia’s most iconic natural places – the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach for a start!

But Proserpine is much more than the pit stop most travellers treat it as. With lush rainforests, peaceful lakes, and rich history, this town is packed with charm and the kind of unusual experiences you can only find in smaller places.

Proserpine is an opportunity to see a different side to the Whitsundays region. It has all the highlights you expect of this sunny part of Australia, but it’s blissfully uncrowded.

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About Proserpine

Only 20-minutes from the stunning Airlie Beach in Queensland, you’ll find the gorgeous town of Proserpine. It’s the ideal quiet base for exploring the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

 

Snorkelling on a nearby Whitsunday Island

Proserpine History

Proserpine, tucked away in Queensland’s Whitsundays region, is more than just a gateway to the tropics, it’s a robust town that’s full of heart. Named after the Greek goddess of grain and harvest, ‘Proserpina’, by British explorer George Dalrymple, Proserpine’s roots run deep in sugar cane farming. The Proserpine Sugar Mill has been in operation since the 1890s.

Once a bustling hub for settlers and farmers drawn to the fertile qualities of the soil, today Proserpine is more laidback than when the British colonists arrived, offering old-school charm, plentiful local produce, and a healthy side dish of adventure.

From the cattle grazing in the paddocks to friendly staff in the pubs on Main Street, it’s a place where you can feel the slow pulse of history mixed with the modern-day call of the wild. The locals are passionate about their home – and they should be! – it’s stunning.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

 

Shot by @ss4c via Flickr | License

How to Get to Proserpine

By Plane

A direct flight to the Whitsunday Coast Airport, a 12-minute drive out of Proserpine, is the quickest and easiest way to get there.

By Car

Proserpine is a chunky 12-hour drive from Brisbane or seven hours from Cairns via the Bruce Highway. If you want to continue to Airlie Beach, that’s only a further 20 minutes from Proserpine.

By Train

Jump aboard the Spirit of Queensland. It runs between Brisbane and Cairns, with a stop in Proserpine. Easy! If you’re transferring to Airlie Beach, coach transfers between Proserpine and the boat ramps at Airlie are included in your rail pass.

Best Things to Do in Proserpine Whitsundays

Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation

Kickstart your day in Proserpine with a locally brewed coffee from the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation on the Bruce Highway. It’s open seven days a week and has an air-conditioned indoor playground so your little ones can be entertained while you get your caffeine hit!

Take a self-guided tour of the plantation – including a bird aviary! – sip on some of Queensland’s finest brews, and learn the art of coffee roasting. With the Proserpine River right alongside, and a tourism information centre onsite, it’s the perfect chill spot to fuel up and find out what you need to know for your next adventure.

 

The Whitsundays largest coffee plantation

Proserpine Water Park

Name a kid who doesn’t love a water park! The Proserpine Water Park is a must-stop if you’re travelling with small Explorers. The family-friendly park is packed with fountains, slides, and a bucket that tips water over you.

Best of all? It’s free! Escape the tropical Queensland heat and relax at this water park, conveniently located in town.

Lake Proserpine

Known for its serene beauty, Lake Proserpine (also known as Peter Faust Dam) is the ideal spot for camping, boating, and fishing. Just watch out for crocs! We’re only aware of a single croc sighting, but that’s officially one too many for swimming, so stay sharp while enjoying water sports.

Read more: How to Stay Safe in Croc Country

If fishing is your holiday jam then you can’t miss a visit to the Lake Proserpine. Huge barramundi have been caught in these waters, and it’s a pretty great spot for Redclaw crayfish. Bring your fishing rod, catch your own dinner, and save some cash. Sounds good!

If cheap accommodation is what you’re chasing, you won’t find a more beautiful and calm option than the campsites here. The campground has onsite amenities, BBQ facilities, and even glamping options for people without their own setup.

 

Fishing on Lake Proserpine with Barramundi Fishing Charters

Nearby Accommodation

Proserpine Historical Museum

Proserpine has a rich history with plenty of colourful stories to be enjoyed, and there’s no better place to learn about them than the Historical Proserpine Museum. Learn about the experiences of the Traditional Owners – the Juru, Gia, Bira and Ngaro people – right through to the first British colonists and what life was like in this coastal community.

Make sure to check out their small cinema for short films on the history of Proserpine and the Whitsunday region.

Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre

Need a bit more info? Stop by the Whitsundays Visitor Centre, super conveniently located at the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation. The team here have all the information you need about local attractions, what’s on, and unique things to do to perfect your time in the region.

While you’re there, visit the bird aviary and explore the crystal shop – it’s an unexpected combo but definitely worth a look. You’ll leave with local tips and maybe even a shiny new souvenir.

 

Keen to see these guys in the wild? Visit the info centre to find out where you can (it’s on this list!)!

Cedar Creek Falls

Just a 30-minute drive from Proserpine on the way to Airlie, Cedar Creek Falls is a popular spot for hikers and people keen to escape the Queensland heat.

The waterfall drops into a stunning swimming hole surrounded by high cliffs and lush rainforest, with plenty of shade for lounging. There are plenty of animals and birds to spot if you’re quiet, and it’s one of those rare natural gems that’s incredibly convenient to access.

The falls are most impressive during the wet season, but you can visit this spot at any time of the year.

 

Check out the colour of the water at Cedar Creek Falls

Airlie Beach & The Great Barrier Reef

No trip to the Proserpine region is complete without a visit to the iconic Airlie Beach and the Great Barrier Reef. Just a short drive from Proserpine, Airlie offers laid-back coastal vibes, buzzing cafes, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.

But the real magic is located offshore. Hop on a boat tour to discover gorgeous coral reefs and the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re snorkelling with turtles, freediving, or just cruising the Whitsunday Islands, this world-renowned wonder is one the best places you can visit in Australia, let alone in Queensland. It’s an absolute must-see.

 

Beachfront swimming pool at Airlie Beach

Whitsunday Crocodile Safari

Take an eco-tour along the Proserpine River to spot saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat on the Whitsunday Crocodile Safari. It’s an exciting adventure for just about everyone and a great way to experience the local ecosystem.

 

Journey along the Proserpine River to see crocodiles and the Goorganga Plains

 

Tours run daily and you’ll also be treated to yummy food, with the guides preparing fresh damper and billy tea while you wait for a full BBQ lunch – all included in the tour!

 

Yummmmmm

Tips For Visiting Proserpine

  • If you intend to visit during the school holidays, book in advance for the best prices on flights and accommodation. This also applies to booking tours, especially those located on the Great Barrier Reef
  • There are crocodiles in the Proserpine River so make sure you’re croc-wise!
  • The Queensland sun is hardcore so pack plenty of sunscreen
  • There are plenty of attractions to enjoy in Proserpine and the best way to find out what’s on is by visiting the tourism centre located at the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation. Random, but that’s where it is!
  • Peter Faust Dam is a great spot to enjoy stunning sunrises

 

Now that’s worth waking up early for!

FAQs Things to Do in Proserpine Whitsundays

How do I get from Whitsunday Coast Airport to Proserpine?

All incoming flights are met by buses and taxis to transfer travellers to Proserpine, Airlie Beach, or to meet ferries headed to various Whitsunday Islands. Car hire from the airport is also an option.

Is Proserpine worth visiting?

Proserpine is a great place to base yourself, with easy access to nearby Airlie Beach and ferries to nearby islands in the Whitsundays. There are also stunning lakes, rainforests, town attractions, and the Proserpine River to check out.

Can I get to Hamilton Island from Persepine?

Sure can! Jump on the Translink Line 860 Bus, then transfer at Airlie Beach to a Cruise Whitsundays Ferry to the Hamilton Island Marina.

How many airports are in the Whitsundays?

There are two airports in the Whitsundays region. One is near Proserpine and the other is on Hamilton Island.

What else can I do in Queensland near Proserpine?

From lounging on the beach at Hydeaway Bay to camping on your own island or sailing a tall ship, the Whitsunday region is overflowing with opportunities for adventure. Check out our list of the top ten adventures in the Whitsundays for more inspiration.

What’s the best way to get to Proserpine?

The easiest way to reach Proserpine is by flying into Whitsunday Coast Airport, which is just a 12-minute drive from town. If you prefer a scenic journey, hop on the Spirit of Queensland train that stops right in Proserpine on its way between Brisbane and Cairns.

Road trippers can take the Bruce Highway, with Proserpine a 12-hour drive from Brisbane or 7-hour drive from Cairns. And if you’re heading to Airlie Beach or the Whitsunday Islands, buses and car hires are available for that final leg of your journey.

More Adventures in Queensland’s Whitsunday Region

 

Photos provided by Tourism & Events Queensland

This piece was brought to you by a real living human who felt the wind in their hair and described their adventure in their own words. This is because we rate authenticity and the sharing of great experiences in the natural world – it’s all part of our ethos here at We Are Explorers. You can read more about it in our Editorial Standards.