How to do Hamilton Island in The Whitsundays

Guide

By Sarah Bristow

Spend some time with one of Queensland’s most popular residents with a trip to the iconic Hamilton Island. The largest member of the 74 islands that call The Whitsundays home, the sand-fringed stretch has become one of the most glamorous members of the Great Barrier Reef.

Equally abundant in stunning scenery as it is in resorts, this tropical haven continues to draw the crowds. For here is where you’ll find the highest concentration of the region’s resorts, including some of its most exclusive, all within easy access of the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef. Sounds up your alley? Here is how to do Hamilton island.

How to get to Hamilton Island

Family jumping off a bareboat charter Whitsunday Islands — Bareboating, The Whitsundays

There are a handful of different ways to get to Hamilton Island, depending on your preference. For those short on time, Hamilton Island is the only Whitsundays resident with a commercial airport, boasting flights direct to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

But perhaps the more popular option is by boat - sailing your way around the Whitsundays is common and an easy way to get from place to place. Not to mention the 60-minute passenger ferries to Hamilton Island that operate regularly from the mainland’s Airlie Beach, including longtime operator Cruise Whitsundays.

Where to stay on Hamilton Island

Father and son make friends with cockatoos on the balcony of their hotel room at Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island — Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays

Hamilton Island accommodation varies quite dramatically, catering to budgets of all shapes and sizes. You’ll find there are sleeping options for everyone in this patch of paradise, from self-contained family cabins to all-inclusive resorts. Families, particularly the budget-conscious, will find plenty to choose from, though there are no camping or caravanning options on offer.

Instead, look to the likes of the family-friendly Palm Bungalows, a collection of contemporary villas nestled within tranquil gardens. Or the rather suave Reef View Hotel, which offers an impressive portfolio of amenities including a lap pool and assortment of eateries.

Where to splurge

Man relaxes in infinity pool overlooking the sea at qualia, Hamilton Island — qualia, Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays. Photo by @executivetraveller

But the most famous of Hamilton Island’s hotels are its opulent offerings. There are a gathering of world-renowned venues that call the region home, and offer some of the most exclusive and luxurious offerings on the market making Hamilton Island popular for weddings and honeymoons. Such as qualia, considered one of the world’s best. The adults-only hotel sits nestled into the northernmost tip of Hamilton Island, boasting unrivalled views onto the surrounding Coral Sea, and some rather unforgettable experiences, including a chance to take a private visit to the Heart Reef.

Beach Club Hamilton Island is a fellow adults-only retreat facing Catseye Beach, while those wanting a luxury stay with the whole family should plan a trip to The Sundays, a boutique resort opening Autumn 2025.

When to visit Hamilton Island

Competitors race into the water for the swim section of the Hamilton Island Triathlon — Hamilton Island Triathlon, The Whitsundays

Hamilton Island’s weather is generally balmy year-round but April to June is when the locals recommend you drop by - this is when the temperatures are at their most mild and usually rain-free. Or, coincide your Hamilton Island getaway with one of its many annual events. The most famous of these is the Hamilton Island Race Week - the firm fixture on the world’s sailing calendar takes place every August, and is the country’s largest offshore keelboat regatta.

Sporting enthusiasts will no doubt also know that the region is also home to a series of professional golfing tournaments throughout the year, and demanding triathlon Endurance Series each November.

Where to eat on Hamilton Island

Family of four enjoy a sunset picnic on One Tree Hill, Hamilton Island — One Tree Hill, Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays

There are plenty of Hamilton Island restaurants to indulge your appetite during your getaway, particularly when it comes to fine dining options. Make way for the Hamilton Island Yacht Club perched on the waterfront and you’ll find the famed Bommie Deck Restaurant. It’s here you can keep an eye out for passing turtles while you indulge in a sunset drink and a plate of local seafood.

Or, take an edible adventure somewhere more exotic at Coca Chu on Catseye Beach where South East Asian flavours merge with a share-style menu. Of course the region is home to plenty more unforgettable dining experiences for the foodies among us.

One must do? Take a picnic to One Tree Hill and enjoy the island views at sunset. It'll be one of the most memorable dining spots of your life.

What to do on Hamilton Island

Aerial view of Whitehaven Beach and yachts offshore in the bright blue water — Explore Group, Whitehaven Beach, The Whitsundays

No Hamilton Island holiday is complete without spending some time in the surrounding Great Barrier Reef. Day tours are commonplace - hop aboard a charter to explore the famously rainbow coral by snorkel. Or cruise your way to the white sands of the iconic Whitehaven Beach, considered one of the world’s most beautiful sandy stretches.

Of course there is still plenty to do back on land, like play a few rounds at the Hamilton Island Golf Club, or grab a buggy and explore the region solo, taking in the views from One Tree Hill Lookout. Not to mention the beaches - sprawl out on the sand for a sunbathe or hire a SUP for an afternoon’s glide around the shoreline.