Chalkies Beach (also known as Stockyard Beach) is a secluded 500-metre stretch of pure white silica sand on the western coast of Haslewood Island, directly opposite world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the northern end of the beach features a vibrant fringing coral reef that offers exceptional snorkelling, especially at mid to low tide. The reef drops off steeply into deeper water, drawing green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and colourful tropical fish close to shore. A 300-metre marked lookout trail climbs through eucalypt forest to panoramic views over Whitehaven Beach and the Coral Sea. Named after 'Chalkie' David Hutchen (who kept score on a blackboard), the beach remains a peaceful, crowd-free alternative to Whitehaven, beloved by sailors and locals alike.
Chalkie's Beach (Stockyard Beach)
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Stinger season in tropical Queensland waters. Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) may be present.
Low risk: Shallow fringing coral reef
The fringing reef at the northern end is shallow and best snorkelled at mid to low tide. Care must be taken to avoid stepping on or damaging coral, and to avoid cuts from sharp coral edges.
Low risk: Steep drop-off and currents
The reef drops off steeply into deeper water, and currents can be stronger near the drop-off and around the point at the northern end.
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Getting in
Accessible only by boat from Airlie Beach or Coral Sea Marina (approx. 1 hour). Day tours, bareboat charters, and private charters visit. Located on the western coast of Haslewood Island, directly opposite Whitehaven Beach. 10 public moorings available for day visitors and overnight stays. Anchoring is not permitted due to the fringing reef.
No parking at the beach — island location. Park at Coral Sea Marina or Port of Airlie in Shute Harbour (paid parking available, from ~$12/day). Day tours include transport from the marina to the island by boat.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
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- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.