Turtle Boardwalk — Airlie Beach’s Most Beautiful Seaside Walk!

Turtle Boardwalk is a short but stunning coastal path located between Airlie Beach and Cannonvale. It’s hands-down my favorite walk around the area! Just one photo here captures everything I love about tropical island life—sparkling sea, white-sand beaches, sailboats, and swaying palm trees!

Since the boardwalk is slightly outside the main Airlie Beach hub, I actually didn’t discover it until my second year living here—and wow, what a hidden gem! If you have the time during your stay in Airlie Beach, I highly recommend spending part of your day here. It’s a gentle walk suitable for all ages, and even wheelchair users can enjoy the path with ease.

Where is it?

Simply search “Turtle Boardwalk” on Google Maps—it’s easy to find! The boardwalk is located between Shingley Beach and the Whisper Bay boat ramp.

How to walk there from Airlie Beach Main Street?

Start from the lagoon pool near the main street and follow the scenic walking path. Along the way, you’ll pass Coral Sea Resort and the Coral Sea Marina. Once you cross the marina, you’ll reach Shingley Beach. Keep walking until you reach the roundabout at the front of Peninsula and at Marina Shores. From there, take the small pathway in the middle—and you’ve arrived at Turtle Boardwalk!

Transport Tips

If you prefer not to walk the same path twice, you can take the local bus and get off at the Airlie Beach Police Station. From there, walk toward the boat ramp and follow the boardwalk toward the main street.

Alternatively, start from the main street, enjoy the walk, and then catch a bus back.Important tip: Local buses in Airlie Beach only accept cash—credit cards are not accepted on board. The fare is currently just 50 cents per trip, but it's a good idea to check the latest schedule and fare online before heading out.