On a recent familiarisation trip to the Whitsundays, we had the pleasure of visiting the hub of all activity, Airlie Beach. This gateway to the Great Barrier Reef is not only a hotspot for tourists but also has a tight-knit community of locals, lucky to call Airlie home. It completed a large-scale upgrade to its Main Street late in 2013, and between the swaying palm trees, iconic lagoon, and multiple marinas, Airlie Beach truly is a playground for all.

As we were taken to Abell Point Marina, and invited onboard Papillon Luxury Yachts, I thought to myself that this would be the perfect pre-wedding bridal party activity. Imagine popping champagne, setting sail, and kicking back with your besties as you watch the gorgeous sunset and feel the wind in your hair – bliss! Papillon offers luxury day, honeymoon, sunset, and overnight experiences. And, if you’re thinking of eloping or having an intimate wedding, then Papillon would be more than happy to discuss their wedding packages with you.

Source: Whitsundays Marketing and Development Ltd (WMDL)

After our relaxing sail with Papillon, we were transported to the nearby Peppers Airlie Beach for a poolside dinner in their Tides Pavilion. Again, my mind started racing with the opportunities that this venue alone could offer. Think a bridal shower high-tea with the ladies, or a laid-back rehearsal dinner before your wedding. Not only does Tides Pavilion have a sweet setting right next to the wet edge pool, but it has stunning panoramic views making the need for decorations minimal. Easy peasy.

Of course there are multiple ceremony spots to choose from at Peppers Airlie Beach – Tides Pavilion can host sixty, as can both Tides Deck and Ocean’s Edge Villa. Forty people can be accommodated in the Conservatory and Terrace.

Tides Pavilion

Ocean’s Edge Villa

As for the reception, there are a few different options depending on your preference – a cocktail party for 120 can be set up within Ocean’s Edge Villa, you can have a sit-down reception for 70 in the Lohrey Room (hosts 120 cocktail style), or if you’re after an informal affair then Tides Deck can be set up for 40 people with non-exclusive hire.

Lohrey Room

Post-wedding, you can sneak away to your own one, two, or three bedroom spa apartment. Having everything onsite at the one venue makes it super convenient for out of town guests as well as the bridal couple themselves.

Endota Spa is also onsite and they have treatments such as Girls Day Out (perfect for some bridesmaid bonding), Scrub & Glow (who wouldn’t want this before their big day?), and Bloke Got Back (yes, this one’s all for him), just to name a few.

And, if I haven’t already convinced you that Peppers Airlie Beach really does have it all, then here is your exclusive invitation to enjoy a pre-wedding appointment and site inspection for just $190/night including:

  • Accommodation in a top floor Spa Apartment
  • Personalised site inspection of the wedding venues
  • Hot breakfast for two
  • Endota spa gift
  • Complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and gourmet cheese plate on arrival

 Simply contact Peppers Airlie Beach on 07 4962 5100 or email [email protected]

Images provided by Peppers Airlie Beach