New Year’s Eve in Airlie Beach 2025 – Your Ultimate Guide
Planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Airlie Beach? You’re not alone! Every year, thousands of visitors arrive in the Whitsundays searching for the best places to ring in the new year.
To help you plan the perfect night, we’ve put together the ultimate FAQ guide for NYE in Airlie Beach — with a spotlight on one of the region’s most popular events: Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill NYE 2025 Beach Party.
What is the best New Year’s Eve event in Airlie Beach?
Airlie Beach has plenty of NYE options — from waterfront dinners to ticketed events — but the Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill NYE stands out as one of the biggest and most iconic celebrations, with:
✨ Two NYE Fireworks Shows: Watch the Whitsunday sky light up with not one, but two incredible NYE fireworks displays! The 10pm show will set the vibe, while the midnight show launches 2026 in unforgettable style.
🎵 Live Bands & DJ: From rocking live sets to party anthems on the decks, this year’s lineup will keep the beach stage pumping all night long.
🍹 Outdoor Bars & Food Trucks: Sip, snack, and celebrate with beachside bars, tasty bites in the Brasserie and Beach Kitchen, plus a variety of pop-up food trucks to fuel the fun.
🌴 Beach Stage: Our iconic stage returns, boasting epic festival vibes and unbeatable views over Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands.
📸 Photo Booth: Snap a keepsake to remember your NYE at Northerlies forever.
🚌 Free Buses: Party stress-free with free buses running all night, connecting you to and from the venue with ease.
…it’s one of the most popular ticketed events in the Whitsundays.
Does Airlie Beach have New Year’s Eve fireworks?
Yes! Airlie Beach typically has fireworks in the main foreshore precinct. Northerlies hosts its own private fireworks show at 10pm AND midnight, lighting up the entire coastline with views back over Airlie Beach township.
If you want a front-row seat away from the hustle of Airlie’s Main Street, Northerlies’ beachside fireworks are hard to beat.
Where can I watch fireworks in Airlie Beach?
The main foreshore offers amazing fireworks but can get very busy. If you’d prefer a more relaxed but festive atmosphere, Northerlies’ beachside vantage point offers space to spread out, enjoy a drink, and watch fireworks over the water.
The event is ticketed, with two fireworks shows – 10pm and midnight.
Do I need to book a restaurant for NYE in Airlie Beach?
Absolutely — NYE in Airlie Beach books out fast. Many restaurants will book out early in December.
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, Northerlies NYE has it all. The restaurant and Beach Kitchen is open from 5pm offering amazing food AND a party atmosphere outside amongst the Beach Stage. If you’re after something grab and go, we’ll also have food trucks stationed around the event grounds. Get your tickets here to enjoy it all.
Are there family-friendly New Year’s Eve options in Airlie Beach?
Yes! Northerlies is one of the best family-friendly NYE events in the region. Kids can enjoy:
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Wide open lawns
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Food truck food options
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Two fireworks shows – 10pm and 12am
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Early evening entertainment from 4pm
Is there parking at Northerlies on New Year’s Eve?
Parking is limited on NYE, which is why the venue strongly recommends using the dedicated shuttle buses.
👉 We’ve sorted New Year’s Eve transportation with loads of free buses to get you here and home safely! Check out the bus stops below across Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Woodwark & Jubilee Pocket. Tap here more info.
How do I get to Northerlies for New Year’s Eve?
The easiest way is via the Northerlies NYE shuttle buses. These are free and run throughout the night from central pickup points around Airlie Beach. See the bus stop above.
Self-driving is possible, but expect limited parking and traffic management on entry.
What should I wear to New Year’s Eve in Airlie Beach?
Airlie Beach is warm, tropical and humid in late December — think:
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Light, breathable clothing
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Sand-friendly shoes
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Something comfortable for dancing and moving around
Northerlies’ event is beachside and relaxed, so you can absolutely go for tropical chic, resort wear or classic NYE sparkle.
Is Northerlies’ NYE event seated or standing?
Please note, Northerlies NYE tickets do not include seating. To guarantee a table, please contact our team on [email protected] with your ticket number, area preference, number of people and group name before December 29th 2025 (unless tables are all reserved prior). The latest booking time is 6pm. All reserved tables will be released at 6:30pm. We will also have lots of walk-in tables available on the night.
What time does Northerlies’ NYE event start and finish?
You can expect entertainment to begin from 4pm and continue through to midnight and beyond. Exact times will be listed on the NYE event page here.
Is Northerlies suitable for big groups on New Year’s Eve?
Yes — it’s a perfect event for groups of friends, families or work crews travelling together. The spacious outdoor venue allows everyone to stay together while enjoying the entertainment.
Do NYE events in Airlie Beach sell out?
Yes — especially ticketed waterfront events like Northerlies. If you’re visiting Airlie Beach around NYE, it’s best to secure tickets early.
Why Northerlies is the Top Pick for NYE 2025 in Airlie Beach
If you’re travelling to the Whitsundays for New Year’s Eve, you’ll want:
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A beautiful waterfront location
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Entertainment for all ages
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Great food and drinks
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Easy transport
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A fun, safe, relaxed atmosphere
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Fireworks over the water
Northerlies delivers all that — plus a unique island feel on the mainland.
Final Tip: Book Early
Northerlies NYE is a sell out event, especially once tourist season kicks in. Book your pre-sale tickets for $89 or $99 on the door (if not sold out prior). Please check our social media accounts for updates.
