Heart of The Reef Sign: Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Your starting point for exploring the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands from beautiful Airlie Beach.
The Heart of The Reef Sign, located on Shute Harbour Rd in Airlie Beach, Queensland, serves as a welcoming landmark for tourists ready to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. It's a popular photo spot and a starting point for various reef tours and activities.
A brief summary to Heart of The Reef Sign
- 277 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach, Queensland, 4802, AU
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Snap a photo with the Heart of The Reef Sign to commemorate the start of your Whitsunday adventure.
- Check out the nearby tour operators for snorkeling, diving, and scenic flights to the Great Barrier Reef.
- Explore the cafes and shops around the sign for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main street of Airlie Beach, walk east on Shute Harbour Road for about 1.5 kilometers. You'll pass shops, cafes, and the Whitsunday Shopping Centre. The Heart of The Reef Sign will be on your left at 277 Shute Harbour Road.
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Public Transport
Take the local bus (route 860) from Airlie Beach Central towards Shute Harbour. The bus ride takes approximately 14 minutes. Get off at the bus stop near Whitsunday Dr on Shute Harbour Road. The Heart of The Reef Sign is a short walk from the bus stop. As of July 2025, the fare is $0.50 AUD per trip.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Airlie Beach to the Heart of The Reef Sign takes about 10 minutes. Expect to pay between $18 and $40 AUD. Metered taxi fares in Airlie Beach include a base fee of $4.60 AUD plus $2.80 AUD per kilometer.
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