Did you know that the heart of the Whitsundays is actually on the mainland?

Experiencing the best of the Whitsundays does not have to involve a stay on an isolated island. Any of the Virgin Australia flights to Proserpine airport will land you in Airlie Beach, the cultural centre of the Whitsundays region.

It is here that you have all the spoils of this crystal-watered Nirvana, without having to give up access to ammenities like a pharmacies, supermarkets and your choice of cafes. It's no wonder more people than ever are choosing to base their Whitsundays stay in Airlie Beach.

I recently ventured North to the witness the powder-white sands and lush rainforests of the region myself, and truly, it is unlike anywhere in the world. If you're planning your next holiday, here is your luxury guide to what to do, where to stay and where to eat in Airlie Beach.

Where to stay

Your accomodation should depend on the type of trip you're looking for and who you're going with.

For the ultimate luxury stay, you can't go past Yangaro. There are only eight villas on the property so you'll have plenty of quiet and privacy.

If you're going as a family or as a group, The Mirage offers penthouses and three-bedroom villas that are well appointed. This is where I stayed and it would be perfect for a group looking to stay together as it has a shared living space with panoramic views of the beach.

Couples might feel more at home at the Coral Sea, which is more like a traditional hotel and in closer walking distance to town than the other two.

Bigger groups who are looking for an exclusive stay will love Elementa, which is a group of seven luxury homes with a rooftop bar available for functions and events.

Or if you want a unique experience - try either the Reef Suites, an underwater hotel experience, or Reef Sleep, a glamping experience on the water.

What to do

A day trip out to the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must. It's sad that much of the Reef has suffered coral bleaching. But since the Whitsundays region is closer to the more Southern part of the Reef, the coral is in better condition. It was jaw-droppingly vibrant, particularly in comparison to what I'd previously seen up around Cairns. There are options for all types of cruisers, whether you want an adrenalin rush on a fast boat or to cruise leisurely on a catamaran.

I also could not recommend a trip to Whitehaven and Hill Inlet enough. The first time I went to the Whitsundays and stayed on Hamilton Island, I skipped Whitehaven. I had no idea what I was missing. It is otherworldly. Make sure you select a Whitehaven Day trip that drops you at the Hill Inlet lookout. It's one of the more incredible views in the whole world. Again, there are both catamarans or speedboats available for this journey.

There's just as much to see on land as there is on the water. Locales like Cedar Falls and also Cape Gloucester are strikingly beautiful. If you don't want to drive around yourself, try to find a tour that can take you around to the main sites. I went with Iconic Whitsunday.

The Airlie Beach boardwalk - it starts at The Mirage and winds its way around the coast eventually leading you into town. The views are incredible. Expect it to be about an hour to hour and half round trip depending on your walking speed.

For some necessary indulgence, there's Mana Spa in town. Otherwise Yangaro, Mirage and Coral Sea all have in-house spas.

For the fitness fans, there are also biking or segway tours up and down the coast.

Or you could charter your own boat for the day to relax at your own leisure.

Where to eat

Eastwood is a Asian fusion restaurant in the main part of town. It has a 12-course degustation option for those who want to try something new.

Perched higher up is The Belvedere, which has some Italian and modern Australian dishes. This is where to come for panoramic views.

For a relaxed lunch with an unforgettable beach-side view, try Monte's. Just don't forget to bring your swimmers like I did. The water is absolutely irresistible.

Coral Sea hotel also has a relaxed restaurant with a full margarita menu.

Mia Steiber travelled as a guest of Virgin Australia.