In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is all things pristine. Water. Tick. Accommodation. Tick. Golf course. Tick. Food. Tick. And cocktails. Double tick.
As part of the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island is the perfect base for exploring the reef and other nearby islands. Tourism is big business on Hamilton Island but somehow it manages to get the balance just right. Quality restaurants, boutique shopping and fun-filled activities. But it takes little effort to find a secluded spot where you can take in the natural delights that the Whitsundays has on show.
BEST TIME TO GO TO HAMILTON ISLAND
With mild, warm weather all year round, any time is a great time to visit Hamilton Island. The busiest times are October to December as well as during school holidays. Hamilton Island experiences tropical coastal showers during the summer months, but they are usually short lived.
THINGS TO DO IN HAMILTON ISLAND
Water Explorer
It’s all about getting on the water when visiting Hamilton Island. Explore the Whitsundays at your own pace. From luxury catamarans to kayaks and motorized dinghies to paddleboards, you’ll find a mode of cruising to suit. Snorkeling the reef is a must do. Or for the more adventurous there is scuba diving, jet skiing, wakeboarding or tube riding. If you prefer someone else to be in control of your adrenalin hit, take a super-charged jet boat ride.
Whitehaven Beach
High-speed catamaran will get you to Whitehaven Beach in 30 minutes. You will be greeted by seven kilometres of impossibly white sand with turquoise blue and green waters lapping at its edge. Various tours to Whitehaven Beach are a great option for those that want to explore the beach and its surroundings. And if you want to be just a little bit rock star, helicopter or seaplane is the way to go. Slow and steady more your pace? You can sail to Whitehaven on one of the island’s yachts.
On Island
Create your own adventure hiking up the bushland trails to Passage Peak. The new perspective of the island will have you appreciating it even more. And those poolside cocktails at the end of the day will be well deserved. The island has free activities for all island guests. Hang out in the resort pools, watch a Moonlight Movie or take in some live music by the marina.
Try something new
For those of you that like to keep on the move why not learn something new? For a unique holiday experience try photography lessons, art classes or join a Masterclass with a renowned Australian chef.
BEST FOOD AND DRINK IN HAMILTON ISLAND
You are in for some luxurious culinary treats on Hamilton Island. From world-class waterfront restaurants to top quality food in relaxed, beachy locales. You may or may not end up with a personal favourite, but you’ll have fun trying One that keeps winning hearts is Coca Chu, on Catseye Beach, with their Asian inspired menu. Also check out the pizza at Manta Ray Café, with stunning views over the marina. Or take the ferry for a long lunch at the Club House on Dent Island. If you really want to indulge and feel a little bit posh, Bommie Restaurant within Hamilton Island Golf Club is the place to go.
Best coffee on Hamilton Island
Take a morning stroll to Passage Peak followed by a well-deserved caffeine hit. Grab one to go from Marina Café and enjoy it on nearby Catseye beach.
BEST SHOPPING IN HAMILTON ISLAND
Hamilton Island is resort shopping at its best. Visit Marina Village for local art, fashion, jewelry and boutique shopping. Lose yourself in the specialty stores or if luxury brands are your thing head to Hamilton Island Resort Boutique. Grab your necessities from the pharmacy, newsagent, medical surgery, bakery and bank. And there is a grocery store for those with self-contained accommodation.
WHERE TO STAY IN HAMILTON ISLAND
Accommodation on Hamilton Island is plentiful but be sure to book well in advance during the busier periods. Self-contained is the way to go from stunning holiday homes overlooking the Whitsundays to modern apartments and beachside hideaways to choose from. Head to Search and Stay to find the holiday rental of your choice.
TRAVELLING WITH KIDS TO HAMILTON ISLAND
Travelling with kids to Hamilton Island is one of the best choices of family holiday you can make. The kids will love getting around on the island buggies, by bike or on the shuttle bus, With no cars on the island. Calm swimming waters and family friendly experiences will keep the whole tribe happy. Think mini golf, tennis and a golf driving range. You can even try a fun glow-in-the-dark game of evening bowls.
THE HISTORY OF HAMILTON ISLAND
The Ngaro people were a seafaring Australian Aboriginal group of people that inhabited the Whitsunday Islands and coastal regions of Queensland up to 9000 years ago. Now a private island, Keith Williams owned and operated it between 1975 and 1996. The Marina and Resort opened in 1982. In 1996 Hamilton Island became a public company, and in 2003 the Oatley family acquired 100% of the shares.
SEARCH AND STAY SECRET TIP
Catch the sunset at either One Tree Hill or Bommie Deck. The sun going down over the Whitsundays is one of the best you will ever see. Bonus tip: Both places serve exceptionally good cocktails. And the sunset with your cocktail of choice in hand will be all that more special. Book on Search and Stay to find the perfect Whitsunday holiday accommodation.
Looking for more? Tourism Whitsundays or Things to do on Hamilton Island.