Best Things To Do On Hamilton Island
Sailing across the glassy waters, you get the sense that paradise has the definition that matches all too perfectly with this island located in Queensland’s stunning Whitsundays.
Wheels are down, kick the shoes off and put the thongs on... let that tropical holiday begin. Hamilton Island lays perfectly amongst the 74 islands within the breathtaking Whitsundays, located in Far Northern Queensland at the Heart of The Great Barrier Reef. Welcome to a tropical oasis including one of Australia’s best resorts. A successful island born from a passion of sailing and quality grapes. It’s time to escape the Southern Winter, grab a cocktail and see why this island is calling your name for that next picture-perfect holiday. Pack your suitcase and away you go…
Somewhere to eat?
Although small in size Hamilton Island houses over 20 restaurants and eateries leaving plenty of options spread across various cuisines making your taste buds wanting more. My personal favourites are….
Bommie Restaurant - Sit back and enjoy an 8 course degestation menu that will satisfy even those of the highest standards. Make sure to book after 7 and grab a drink on the Bommie Deck outside for sunset before your sitting.
Dent Island Clubhouse - Open exclusively for lunch this 2 course menu is up there with some of the best clubhouse meals I have experienced around the world ( for only $69. including return transfers and golf course tour in your own buggy ). With limited tables, arriving by private boat “The Island Links” this is one lunch for the memory books. Make sure to order my absolute favourite affogato with cinnamon croutons and vanilla bean ice cream.
Coca Chu - Giving Asian fusion a whole new meaning this waterside restaurant overlooking the gorgeous Catseye Bay will combine flavours that you once thought didn't fit together. Son in law eggs with their mango chutney for example leave you craving more and always make an appearance at my table. Best done sharing amongst a group, this spot takes you on a whole new adventure and is one not to be missed.
Craving that morning caffeine?
Being from Melbourne I’ll be the first to admit that finding anything of extreme value for money while still being quality was very hard to come across. You have two options here, take the hit for a week or add some vodka and shake it up… I can guarantee option two will leave you with absolutely no complaints.
Marina Cafe along Front Street is the go to place for the morning latte while being surrounded by super yachts and turquoise water, doesn't sound all that bad now does it? Just don’t expect any mind blowing golden drips while holidaying here.
Looking For Things To Do?
With over 74 activities on island you won’t be hard pushed entertaining the kids or finding something to do on holidays.
Here’s some of my favourites!
Paddle Board with turtles in Catseye Beach - One of the cheapest and most satisfying activities being up at sunrise enjoying natures finest while everyone else sleeps, yes please!
Climb Passage Peak - 30 minutes on amazingly crafted walking trails will lead you to some of the best vantage points in the Whitsundays! Heading up here for sunrise is something you will never regret. During whale migration season ( around August ) you can even spot them from up here so keep an eye out! Check out my post on the top 5 walking trails for more information. https://michael-heritage.com/australia/hamilton-islands-walking-trails
Watch Sunset from One Tree Hill - $10 cocktails and ample room on the grass for the picnic blanket leaves you plenty of reasons to head up here for sunset and enjoy watching the sun drop over mainland Australia or better yet head to the locals favourite unsigned hide out “Half Tree Hill” just next to the main roundabout to avoid the crowds.
18 holes on Dent Island Golf Course - This is one of the most challenging yet rewarding and scenic courses you will play I can guarantee. Designed by Peter Thompson, Dent Island is one to impress. Bring some spare balls or grab some in the well stocked pro shop before heading out, you’re going to need them while playing this par 71 course.
Skydive across the Whitsundays - This is by far the most epic way to see the Whitsundays. The ultimate Birdseye view!
Let’s talk how to get around?
One of the most unique modes of transport anywhere in Australia, Island life involves getting around on 4 seater golf buggies. For as little as $70 a day you can scoot round the island with over 5kms of sealed roads. These make for a great fun day exploring with a super economically friendly alternative to your daily drivers back home. Forget peak hour traffic or even waiting at lights for that matter as there is only two roundabouts on the entire island and ample parking no matter where you go.
Call these ones home for the night… or week… or month?
Pool view? Island view? Mountain view? Why not have it all?
Budget - Palm Bungalows, not only do you have a hammock to swing in on the front deck while listening to the water lap up against the beach but they’re also fully self contained making it all to easy grabbing some groceries from the brand new local IGA supermarket and saving a few $$.
Best value - Private accomodation, the island has numerous privately owned Holiday Homes which are super easy to find and book online giving the best value as most have multiple bedrooms along with pools and kitchen facilities.
My Favourites would have to be;
The Edge apartments - One of the best infinity pools on island. Check this out at sunset, AMAZING!
Yacht Club Villas - Self contained individually styled 3 stories of pure luxury with full concierge service to accomodate the whole family, even has an infinity pool. These come with a price tag but well worth it in my opinion to splash out and enjoy.
Pavilions - Like to keep an eye on your boat? These freshly renovated apartments are located in the marina with hard to beat sunsets from the second story deck.
Luxurious - qualia, getting rated Australia’s best resort a few years back didn’t happen by accident. This is where quality meets ultimate privacy hidden behind 20 foot high polished timber gates this super luxury resort houses 60 individual pavilions including plunge pools in the Windward rooms and 12 person dining table inside the famous 2 bedroom Beach House in which many big name celebrities often stay. This will feel like you're entering Jurassic Park with it’s meticulously crafted gardens.
Unique - M.Y Alani, this luxurious 82ft Sunseeker motor yacht which has been seen in many photo shoots and wedding backdrops, will have you considering selling the house and living the yacht life after a few hours on board. You will understand why from the minute you step aboard. Let the team take care of your every need while waking up to untouched paradise on some of Queensland’s best beaches or set up an unforgettable picnic on a secluded beach with day charters also available.
Best gyms in town to keep you in shape?
Hamilton Island Sports Club is the one stop place for all your fitness needs, from pin loaded machines to free weights and over 20 classes a week including spin, yoga and Les Mills Body Pump. You will be spoilt for choice in this newly renovated fitness centre which also includes 5 outdoor tennis courts, a basketball court, nightly free social sports, and even a sauna and hot/cold spas for the recovery afterwards.
Open 6am - 8pm daily. 365 days a year.
Dollars, Yennies, Cents & language?
Staying in one of the hotels? Simply room charge at most outlets making it easy to leave your card at home and feel a little more relaxed.
Otherwise simply use cash and card when paying. Unfourtunetly coconuts and a bottle of rum isn't a form of payment like on Pirates of the Caribbean.
Best spot for retail therapy?
Salt Swimwear and The Hut have all your resort wear needs covered with multiple brands and options for all shapes and sizes.
Feel like treating yourself? Contact qualia guest services to organise a personalised shopping experience in the qualia boutique. This might push the budget but if you’re after luxurious brands sourced from around the world with a personalised assistant you have come to the right place.
Saturday morning haircut?
After living here for years I have always made the quick trip by ferry to Airlie Beach ( 1 hr ) on a weekend when after a fresh hair cut or shave. Celeste in The Whitsunday Barber will look after you with great value for money cuts. Well experienced and super friendly, take a seat inside the little red shop on Airlie’s main street and walk out feeling like a new man.
Rain, hail or shine?
With very little rain from April - December and ridiculous amounts of sunshine, Hamilton Island is home to some of Australia’s best weather in my opinion. Imagine leaving your jumper at home in winter with average temperatures sitting around 24 degrees! December to February is technically the “Wet Season” for these parts of The Whitsundays. While the humidity really heats things up this doesn't stop many holiday goers from enjoying the festive season with refreshing bursts of rain.
The one hit wonder tips?
Get a buggy. The hills are brutal and while fun when exercising in the morning, walking up these to dinner is a killer. Most accomodation options come with one so make sure to check before booking.
Book ahead! Being one of the most accessible islands in the Whitsundays with it’s own airport this makes it a popular spot during school holidays and usually books out months ahead so get in quickly.
Take it slow. Another drink? Why not, don’t forget to slow down and change your watch to island time. Sunsets feel like they last forever and cocktails seem to taste all that much better.
Visiting during August is by far the best for two reasons -
1. Race week is the islands biggest event bringing over 220 yachts from around the world to sail around the islands with nightly entertainment.
2. Whale season is phenomenal! You’re pretty much guaranteed to spot these friendly characters as they migrate past our doorstep.
Buckle in for my top 5 day trips?
Swim - Whitehaven Beach. If you have been living under a rock lately and haven’t seen this beach voted as one of the best in Australia then I suggest you take the opportunity to empty the memory card as this beach will blow you away with it’s natural beauty. Not only is this uninhabited National Park only 45 minutes by boat but is also home to the stunning Hill Inlet with mesmerising tidal sand formations best viewed from up above as the tide rises.
Fly - Flying over Heart Reef would have to be one of the most amazing experiences in this part of the world and hands down a must do when visiting! Although on the pricer side, heading out to the Great Barrier Reef with Hamilton Island Air is a once in a lifetime experience so tick it off your bucket list.
Sail - Riccochet is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable small group or privately chartered boats available to explore the islands by day. Make sure to stay on board for sunset as Frank and the crew serve up delicious platters.
Ride - You can leave Google Maps at home for this one… jump in your buggy and simply explore the island. Best done with friends you will find yourself in some beautiful locations, and with all roads eventually leading back to Front Street you can’t get lost.
Walk - Hideaway Bay. The name says it all really, tucked away on the Eastern Side of the island lays a secluded beach only accsesbile by foot. Pack a picnic and enjoy a refreshing swim with beautiful clear water.
Early bird gets the worm - Best sunrise locations?
Setting the alarm clock is well worth it with some jaw dropping sunrise locations.
Catseye Beach - If you’re lucky enough to paddle board at sunrise on glassy water through winter you will most likely be rewarded with a ‘hello’ from the friendly locals of the bay. These green turtles are huge so get the GoPro ready and be patient for an unforgettable morning.
Passage Peak - Like I said before coming up here for first light might be a little mission but is a huge reward once that sun pokes up over the horizon. Sitting at 269 metres high you will be hard pushed to beat this view.
One Tree Hill - The bar might be closed but to truly see a 360 degree view of this region this is the spot to go getting the best of both worlds.
Prefer a sleep in? - Best spots to catch a sunset
Yacht Club - Pull up a chair and sit back with a cocktail in hand while the sun drops behind Dent Island Golf Course.
One Tree Hill - Hard to beat with it’s 360 degree views and a bottle of red.
Resort Lookout - 15 minutes walk gives you a different perspective and definitely one for the adventurer.
On The Edge Sunset Sail - Unlimited drinks and platters while slowly sailing into the sunset, hard to beat if you ask me?
Round this out with the best espresso martini?
Can you tell I’m from Melbourne? But seriously what holiday is complete without sampling the finest espresso martini in town? I’ve done the hard work for you to save any caffeine overloads… just not sure how to get to sleep now, any suggestions?
Pebble Beach, qualia resort - Premium coffee blends mixed with infinity pool and uninterrupted views over the turquoise waters of The Whitsundays not to mention complete privacy at this world class exclusive adults only resort.
Where to from here?
The Great Barrier Reef airport located on Hamilton Island makes it super easy to get around with over 10 flights a day to all your major Australian cities along the East coast with 3 large airlines. Like things a little more relaxed? The marina along Front Street holds over 220 boats of all shapes and sizes with overnight through to yearly moorings available.
With Sydney less than 2 hours away and Cairns only 45 minutes North, it has never been easier to enjoy paradise.
Having the opportunity to live and work on this amazing island over the past 5 years has allowed me to fully explore everything the place has to offer. From taste testing every menu at each restaurant to making my way through the cocktail list at each bar. This place truly does have it all and allows you to start your holiday literally 10 minutes after touching down! Forget hour long taxi rides in traffic and wondering what the weather will be.
Not only is this one of the safest destinations I have ever been to ( no seriously I don’t even own a key for my front door ) but also has the beauty of multiple options for the whole family right at your front door step all within walking distance.
If you love the outdoors and spending time underneath palm trees at the beach then Hamilton Island has your name written all over it.
