Hamilton Island can be found in the crystal clear protected waters of the Whitsunday Islands, an archipelago of 74 scenic islands on the Great Barrier Reef. A secluded paradise with pristine beaches and tranquil bays, it’s the ideal haven for scuba diving, sailing, snorkelling and swimming. Considered one of Australia’s most desirable destinations, Hamilton Island is home to world-class accommodation and restaurants as well as an 18 hole championship golf course. A Hamilton Island holiday package involves filling your days with watersports, swimming, bushwalking, and discovering the Great Barrier Reef and nearby Whitehaven Beach. Nights bring fine dining and beachside cocktails beneath the stars.
There are over 60 activities on offer to fill days on your Hamilton Island tour. Non-motorised watersports include kayaks and stand up paddleboards. Those looking for more thrills can take an off-road adventure, go game fishing, or sailing. Or perhaps take to the skies for a scenic helicopter or seaplane flight over the iconic Heart Reef. A short ferry ride takes golfers to Dent Island where an 18 hole championship golf course offers a challenge accompanied by breathtaking views. There are pools, art classes, a day spa, shops, restaurants, and cafes. And although this makes Hamilton Island sound busy, only a third of the island is developed. The rest remains in its pristine, natural state and is a bushwalker's paradise.
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is easy with day trips available to get you snorkelling and diving on the reef. You can even opt for a night staying on the reef in underwater Reefsuites with floor to ceiling windows looking out on the coral.
And no trip to Hamilton Island is complete without a visit to Whitehaven Beach. Travel just 30 minutes by high-speed catamaran and you’ll be rewarded with the world’s top eco-friendly beach.
Take a look at the rest of our Queensland and Whitsunday Island tours.
You can reach Hamilton Island by plane, helicopter, boat, ferry, or private yacht. As the only Whitsundays Island with a commercial airport, direct flights are available from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns.
If you’d prefer to drive, it’s an 1100km (12 plus hours) journey north of Brisbane. You can catch a ferry to Hamilton Island from the Port of Airlie and Shute Harbour, both located in Airlie Beach, near Proserpine.
The island is a car-free zone, with visitors able to hire a buggy, walk, or jump on board the complimentary island shuttle to make their way around.
Sure thing! There are several accommodation options on the island catering to all budgets.
Choose from holiday homes and self-catering (yes, there’s a supermarket on the island) to world-class indulgence at the luxurious qualia. Our Hamilton Island holiday package pick for discerning travellers is the 4-star Reef View Hotel which affords magnificent water views.
Hamilton Island covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometres. Despite its relatively small size, the island is a haven for travellers, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and a wide range of activities. Its compact size contributes to the ease of exploring the island, ensuring that visitors can make the most of their time in this tropical paradise.
Hamilton Island has gained renown as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering convenient access to this natural wonder. Its proximity to the stunning Whitehaven Beach, luxurious accommodations, and diverse activities, from water sports to wildlife encounters, make it a sought-after destination for many travellers.
The ideal duration for a visit to Hamilton Island depends on individual preferences and the type of experiences one wishes to have. However, a stay of around 3 to 5 days is often recommended to fully appreciate the island's beauty and engage in various activities.
This timeframe allows for relaxation, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, visiting nearby attractions like Whitehaven Beach, and enjoying the island's amenities. Of course, longer stays provide more leisurely opportunities to soak in the tropical ambience and make the most of all that Hamilton Island offers.
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