AS THE gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach literally throbs with party-mad backpackers, which is why, when looking for an upper-class hotel for a romantic getaway, the Coral Sea Resort appealed immediately.

A 700 m boardwalk stroll from Airlie’s hub, the resort is in a quiet locale with absolute waterfront vistas.

Immaculately clean, modern and fresh, our Coral Sea Spa Suite boasted an expansive view of the turquoise waters of Pioneer Bay and a balcony fitted with a hammock for one and a spa for two.

Sadly, dinner in the half-full Clipper Restaurant and Lounge was a little disappointing, with nice but unmemorable meals and a lack of atmosphere.

But as I drifted off to sleep to the sound of the waves lapping at the rocks below and the promise of a few hours lounging in the hammock in the morning, I only wished my stay here could have been longer.

The info

Coral Sea Resort

25 Oceanview Avenue, Airlie Beach, Qld 4802

Phone: 07 4964 1300

Web: www.coralsearesort.com

Rates: From $245 per night; check the website for specials.