The island’s top 5 hiking trails that are sure to get the heart racing. Get your step counter ready, these hills are unforgiving although worth every step.

The island perched right in the heart of Queensland’s spectacular Whitsunday region boasts a large amount of perfectly crafted and maintained walking trails which for any active holiday goer are a must do! Run, walk or crawl this will get your heart rate up and eyes popping from the sockets as you take in these incredible views.

Whether it’s for sunrise, sunset or simply something to keep the legs moving these walking trails are definitely one of my favourite things to do here on Hamilton Island after living on the rock for multiple years. They offer you amazing views that feel like they’re straight off a postcard or episode of Getaway while being super accessible and achievable for all fitness levels from beginner through to athlete. With an array of wildlife joining you it won’t be long before you’re addicted to a scenic morning routine.

#1 - Passage Peak (2km)

This is definitely the best of the best when it comes to a walking trail. Taking only 30 minutes with a moderate walk, this trail begins from Catseye beach taking you right to the islands highest point for seriously good 360 views of The Whitsundays. At only 2kms long this trail is well marked and signed with the last 200 meters consisting of well constructed steps for all the family or a calf burner run for the inner athlete. During Whale season this is a great vantage point to spot the huge creatures making their way through the passage.

Pro tip : Head up here for first light to be rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise!

#2 - Resort Lookout (1.5km)

While only taking 15 minutes at a steady pace this shorter trail is a constant uphill walk which rewards you with a flat top to sit on and watch the planes land on the famously short commercial runway down below.

Pro Tip : Head up here for sunset and watch the sun drop behind Dent Island golf course as the lights beneath the super yachts light up in the marina down below! If you’re lucky enough to be staying during Hamilton Island race week (HIRW) in August each year, this makes for the perfect spot to catch a view of the yachts sailing by.

#3 - South East Head Loop (3.2km)

This being a little more rugged off the beaten path gives you a real secluded island feel losing all sight of any hotel, buggy or quite often people.

While the path is still really well crafted it defiantly doesn't get the foot traffic the others do which in my opinion is crazy as it gives you panoramic views out to the East as far as the eye can see! ( Let’s keep this one our secret )

Remember to take a hat! This path offerers little shade with only low lying shrubs most of the way making it more suited to the early morning runner.

#4 - Hideaway Bay (500m)

This little stretch of beach tucked away just over the hill from Catseye bay is unbelievably empty most of the time! Being the closest and easiest trail walk you would be crazy not to stop in here and check it out. Like most of these beaches the best time to visit being high tide will give you the perfect place for a dip in the crystal clear salt water.

#5 - Escape Beach (2.6km)

Pack the swimmers, this secluded beach which you will most likely have all to yourself will blow you away after a sweaty walk from the main resort. After 45 minutes that crystal clear blue water has never looked more appealing with plenty of room to lay the towel out or swing in the hammock amongst the trees.

These 5 trails are truely something many people forget to even add on their list when planning a holiday here, so before you order that next martini kick the running shoes on and go and explore what most people miss. Taking a camera you will not be disappointed, but honestly even the oldest iPhone 3 couldn’t make these views look bad they’re that mesmerising. Best of all, every one of the amazing trails are completely free leaving you no excuses not to try them out!

Must Have Trail Items -

Camera - Honestly, the views in which you will encounter on these trails are jaw dropping! A GoPro or high quality phone camera will be best suited for being lightweight yet still capturing the finer details of the amazing scenery.
Water Bottle -Think ahead and take an insulated bottle that will keep your water chilly from one end of the day to the other. Another bonus is once you get to the end rather than throw the bottle in the bin you can simply wash it and have it good to go again the next day.
Hat & Sunscreen - Welcome to the tropics. Heatwave by 9am is the least of your worries if you’re without these essentials.
Shoes -I have done each and every one of these trails in simple, almost soulless Nike Free’s. This is not saying it was comfortable nor recommended but unless you have previous injuries or need that extra support, these trails are so well designed that even the basic shoes will get you from point A to point B.

Hamilton Island's Best Walking Trails