Arrived at Arlie Beach after spending another night at Bowling Green National Park just south of Townsville. A bit of an adjustment being back in a tent in this sweltering, humid heat after 6 days in air-conditioned YHA rooms. It was very hard to fall asleep, and although the mosquitoes were not nearly as bad this time, they were still trying to make a comeback. I did discover one new thing about the place: it is full of great swimming holes, a short hike from the campsite. They discourage you from swimming there, but not too many people listen because there are many people there to cool off. The only problem was that the water was warmer than the hot art (or so it seemed). Had been a beautiful drive down from Cairns along the mountain ranges.
Drive to Arlie Beach
Arlie Beach is one of the main hubs for the Whitsunday Islands. I had reserved a national park campsite on a beach nearby, with the caveat that it involved a 2km hike in from the parking lot. My plan was always to check it out on a mountain bike and shuttle my stuff if everything was good.
Arlie Beach Campsite Investigation
Along the way, I met up with some hikers who politely pointed out that mountain bikes were not permitted on the trail (a sign I missed), but were very supportive of me riding it, anyway. Between the distance to the beach, rough enough track for cycling, and my officially not being allowed to cycle in there, and the run-down nature of the actual deserted campsites, I decided to aim for a local caravan park. The first one I approached wanted $48 for an unpowered tent site! That’s a record. I found a much cheaper option just down the road. The only problem with it is the neighbouring airport, with a steady stream of small planes and helicopters arriving. Hopefully, all will be quiet tonight.
As for Arlie, it’s not really what I’m looking for at the moment (coming too soon after Cairns) with too many developments and not enough wilderness. There are more nice-looking beaches you can’t swim at due to stingers. Officially below the croc line, I believe.
