Nine days in The Whitsundays: Your ultimate island escape

Itinerary

By Taneil Thornberry

The Whitsundays is a tropical paradise where world-class luxury meets barefoot adventure. Stay on dreamy islands, sail across turquoise waters, and dive into the vibrant reef. From jet ski thrills to sunset cocktails, here’s how to make the most of nine unforgettable days.

Day one: Welcome to paradise

Relaxing in the oceanfront swimming pool — InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, The Whitsundays

Fly direct to Hamilton Island and take a luxury boat transfer to Hayman Island.
Check in to InterContinental Hayman Island Resort (3-night stay).
Spend the afternoon soaking up the resort’s private beach, with complimentary paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing (tides permitting).
Wind down with a sunset cocktail before a relaxed island dinner.

Day two: Hidden bays and relaxation

Kickstart the morning with a Jet Ski Tour and spot sea turtles along the way.
Join a guided Blue Pearl Bay Escapade hike, with breathtaking views and a secret cove swim to finish.
Spend the afternoon poolside before a sunset drink and dinner under the stars.

Day three: Spa bliss & island time

Aerial view of InterContinental Hayman Island Resort — InterContinental Hayman Island Resort

Indulge in a Hayman Spa signature massage, then sink into the plunge pool and sauna.
Enjoy a long, lazy beachfront lunch before an afternoon of pure relaxation.
Toast to your last night on Hayman with an oceanfront feast.

Day four: Hamilton Island-bound

Overlooking Reef View Hotel — Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays

Transfer to Hamilton Island and check in to Reef View Hotel (4-night stay).
Grab a buggy and explore the island.
Head to One Tree Hill for sunset drinks, then dinner at Coca Chu, the island’s most popular restaurant.

Day five: Whitehaven wonders

Beachfront camping on Whitsunday Island — Whitehaven Beach, The Whitsundays

Take a full-day cruise to Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays. Sink your feet into the world’s softest sand and take a dip.
Back on Hamilton, freshen up for dinner at Mariners, a seafood lover’s dream.

Day six: Sunrise hikes & off-road adventures

Rise early for a Passage Peak hike - the best sunrise view on the island.
After a leisurely breakfast, take a 90-minute ATV tour, riding scenic trails to secret lookouts.
Unwind with a pre-dinner drink before dining at Romano’s, the island’s iconic Italian eatery.

Day seven: Jet skis & island explorations

Group of people enjoying a jet ski tour around the Molle Islands — Whitsunday Jetski Tours

Speed across the Whitsundays with a Jet Ski Tour, then swap adrenaline for a stroll along a secluded beach.
Dine at Beach Club, an exclusive adults-only restaurant with ocean views.

Day eight: Sleep under the stars on the Reef

Sleeping under the stars at Reefsleep Whitsundays — Reefsleep Whitsundays

Depart Hamilton Island for an overnight ReefSleep experience on the Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkel with vibrant marine life, dine under a star-studded sky, and sleep in a Reefbed above the ocean.

Day nine: Heart Reef flyover & farewell

Wake up on the reef and sneak in one last snorkel.
Transfer by boat to the helipad for a scenic helicopter flight over Heart Reef, before landing back on Hamilton Island.
Pick up your bags and board your flight home - with The Whitsundays memories in tow.