Nestled on the western coast of Haslewood Island, Chalkies Beach (also known as Stockyard Beach) is a serene sibling to world-famous Whitehaven Beach, sharing the same dazzling white silica sand that squeaks underfoot. The northern end of the beach hosts a vibrant fringing coral reef that is best explored at low to mid-tide, where colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, and healthy corals await snorkelers in crystal-clear turquoise water. With a short 300-metre lookout trail offering panoramic views across the bay to Whitehaven, this peaceful spot combines pristine beach relaxation with exceptional Great Barrier Reef snorkelling — all without the crowds.
Chalkie's Beach (Stockyard Beach, Haslewood Island)
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.5 sWind Speed 13 knPrecipitation 1.3 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine Stingers (Jellyfish)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in Whitsundays waters during the warmer months.
Moderate risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal currents can develop around the reef, particularly during outgoing tides. Best snorkelling is at low to mid-tide.
Low risk: Steep reef drop-off
The fringing reef drops off steeply into deeper water at the northern end — be mindful of the sudden depth change and strong currents near the drop-off.
Low risk: Shallow coral at low tide
Snorkelling is best at low to mid-tide; at low tide the reef becomes very shallow, increasing risk of coral contact and injury.
Low risk: Steep Drop-off & Tidal Currents
The fringing reef has a steep drop-off close to shore; strong tidal currents can develop around the reef edge.
Low risk: High UV / Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is intense year-round; the white silica sand reflects UV rays, increasing burn risk.
Low risk: Steep drop-off beyond fringing reef
The fringing reef drops off steeply from the shore. Snorkelers can inadvertently drift into deeper water beyond the reef edge.
Low risk: Marine vessel traffic
Boat traffic from tours and bareboat charters using the public moorings. Snorkelers should be aware of vessels entering and leaving the bay.
Low risk: Stingers (jellyfish)
Stinging jellyfish (including box jellyfish) may be present in Whitsunday waters, especially during the warmer months.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
2 photos from the community
Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Chalkies Beach is on the western coast of Haslewood Island, approximately 2 nautical miles east of South Whitehaven Beach. Accessible via day tours, bareboat charter, or private boat from Airlie Beach (departing Coral Sea Marina or Port of Airlie). The journey takes about 1 hour by boat. Ten public moorings are available — anchoring is not permitted due to the steep drop-off and fringing reef.
Parking & facilities
No dedicated parking; access is solely by boat. Moorings are available for day visitors and overnight stays at the 10 public moorings off the beach. Parking is available at the Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach for those joining tours or charter vessels.
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Gallery ┬╖ 2 photos
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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).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports