Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel - Share your experience!

The Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel is returning to Fairy Tree Park on the Airlie Beach Foreshore, between May and November 2026.

After a successful trial and strong community support, the Ferris Wheel will once again light up the Foreshore, bringing those iconic views and family-friendly fun to Airlie Beach.

Installation details

Installation of the Ferris Wheel will take place from 5 May, between the hours of 6am and 7pm. See information below, and for more details, please view our Factsheet here:

• A temporary fence will be installed around the worksite for public safety.
• Some carparks will be temporarily closed along Airlie Beach Esplanade to allow for heavy vehicle access to the park. Signage and traffic control will be in place during works.
• There may be some construction noise while the Ferris Wheel is installed.
• Grass protection mesh will be in place for heavy vehicle traffic.

How can I ride the Ferris Wheel?

• The Ferris Wheel will be open daily between 10am - 8.30pm
• Operated by Skyline Attractions, the Ferris Wheel will formally open from Saturday 9 May 2026 and will be in operation until Sunday 15 November 2026.
• Whitsunday Locals are able to get an exclusive discount, with 25% off the ticket box prices. Simply present your photo ID showing your local address at the ticket box to redeem!
• Find out more here - https://www.skylineattractions.com.au/airliebeach

New Digital Sign for Airlie Beach!

We are installing a new digital sign for community news and updates in the heart of Airlie Beach, next to the taxi shelter on Main Street. We will also be relocating the bike racks to a new location next to the Foreshore Amenities building. The taxi shelter currently positioned in front of the food court will also be shifted down next to the other shelter, creating better visibility in this area.

While these minor works take place, a temporary taxi rank will be located in the Airlie Creek carpark between 11 May - 15 May. For more details, please view our Factsheet here.

Consultation results

We thank the community for having their say on the Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel!

Since opening on 30 May 2025 as part of a five-month trial, the Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel attracted more than 50,000 locals and visitors, offering panoramic 360° views of Conway National Park, the islands, and the turquoise waters of Airlie Bay. As the Ferris wheel trial period concluded, Council sought community feedback on the attraction’s value and whether it should return in future years.

Please view our Consultation summary or detailed Consultation report. Key feedback included:

• Strong support for the Ferris wheel returning
• Recognition of the Ferris wheel as a valued family friendly attraction that offers exceptional views and encourages visitors and locals to stay longer and enjoy the Foreshore, with local businesses noting positive flow on benefits from the increased activity.
• Identification that many locals rode the Ferris wheel multiple times, with reference that it was a great activity for the visiting friends and relative’s market.
• Some concern regarding Ferris wheel lighting at night, but majority favourable of the added vibrancy and nighttime contribution to the Foreshore and skyline.
• Desire for additional land-based attractions and pop-ups, school holiday events, mini-golf, live music, and cultural entertainment.

As part of its use of public land, a share of profits generated by the wheel will be re-invested back in the Foreshore, helping fund ongoing improvements for the community.