Hamilton Island Guide
Hamilton Island Holidays »
The beating heart of the Whitsunday Islands, Hamilton Island is the most popular tourist destination on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The island sprawls across almost 2,000 spectacular acres, much of which is untouched rainforest. Golf buggies take the place of cars as the primary mode of transport on the island, which means peace, tranquillity and the slow pace of quintessential island living is the order of the day.
Visitors to Hamilton Island are spoilt for choice. Whether you explore the island’s stunning waterways and beaches, venture further afield to popular Whitehaven Beach, or settle in for a romantic sunset sail, Hamilton Island is the quintessential island holiday you’ve been dreaming of.
Top Attractions »
If you can tear yourself away from relaxing on the picture-perfect beaches that hug the fringes of this spectacular island, a range of activities await including scuba diving, sailing, paddle boarding and hiking.
For professional and novice scuba divers alike, a great range of guided diving tours depart from Hamilton Island regularly, so take the opportunity to get up close to the resident marine life. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for one of the reef’s most coveted draw cards: the sea turtle.
If you prefer to stay dry, head down to the marina and get set for a sailing experience to trump all others. There are a wide variety of hire options available to suit both experienced sailors and beginners. So whether you’re at the helm of your own yacht or lounging on the decks of someone else’s, you’re guaranteed to experience the best of what the reef has to offer.
Despite its magnetic pull, the turquoise water isn’t the only natural wonderland in these parts. Hamilton Island offers an impressive range of scenic walking trails, too. Take a walk out to Passage Peak; it involves a steep incline but the result is a fantastic panoramic view over the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Alternatively, make your way out to South East Head, which offers breathtaking views of Pentecost Island and the Lindeman Group.
Eat and Drink »
Local seafood is a must-try while staying on Hamilton Island, and platters serving up the finest catches of the region are popular options in many of the restaurants. There’s also Italian, Southeast Asian and modern Australian cuisine on offer, as well as relaxed pubs and exclusive hotel hotspots. Head to Front Street to party into the wee hours, or kick things off in the late afternoon – most bars on Hamilton Island have a happy hour that starts at around 5pm, so you can go straight from the beach to the bar.
Where to Stay »
From its family-friendly hotels and self-catering accommodation to one of the most exclusive and highly regarded resorts in Australia, it’s easy to see why Hamilton Island is among the most popular tourist destinations in the Whitsundays. For a more affordable option, stay on the mainland in Airlie Beach and make the 30-kilometre journey to Hamilton Island by boat.
Shopping
Marina Village is the obvious destination for shopping on Hamilton Island. This chic retail complex has all bases covered, from day-to-day essentials to high-end fashion boutiques. There’s a thriving art scene on Hamilton Island so the local gallery is well worth a wander even if you’re keeping a tight reign on the purse strings. Nearby Airlie Beach is well stocked with high-street favourites if you’re in need of a fashion fix.
Hamilton Island like a Local
The small population of Hamilton Island locals isn’t going anywhere. And considering the island provides year-round sunshine, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and a great social scene, they can’t really be blamed. Despite its tourist-only reputation, the island operates as a fully functioning town centre, so grab a coffee and wander around Marina Village like a true Hamilton Islander. Fancy venturing off the island? Follow the locals to the stunning Hamilton Island Golf Club. Set in the undulating valleys of neighbouring Dent Island, the exclusive clubhouse is a popular place for locals to enjoy Friday evening drinks.
