I take every opportunity to escape Winter, so when I spied Jetstar’s free return fares offer recently I was ‘Johnny on the spot’ (as mentioned in my tips on grabbing a bargain airfare) and snapped up two return tickets to Hamilton Island for a measly $300. It’s been 13 years since I was last on Hamilton Island and while some things have changed, many remain exactly as they were preserved in my memory. Hamilton Island is in Queensland’s Whitsundays region, a short distance from the mainland and a perfect gateway to Australia’s world famous Great Barrier Reef. The region is truly a slice of paradise, so it’s no wonder celebrities like Oprah (who also brought 93 of her fans along for the ride!), Miranda Kerr, Taylor Swift, Naomi Watts, Cate Blachett, Leonardo DiCaprio and Gorden Ramsey have all visited. If you want to find out exactly what draws thousands of visitors to this spectacular island every year read on for all the details …
Hamilton Island Overview
The experts think Hamilton Island was first inhabited up to 8000 years ago by the Ngaro people. Captain Cook sailed by in 1770 but left it largely untouched. Tourists started discovering the island’s beauty in the 1920’s and it gained popularity in the 1970’s and 80’s but it wasn’t until Bob Oatley bought the island in 2003 for a reported $200m that it was developed the luxury destination that we know today. One of Hamilton Island’s greatest draw-cards is the airport that was built in the early 80’s offering direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns. Search for flights on Agoda to compare all the options side by side. Hamilton Island enjoys enviable weather year round and even in winter temps all over Queensland are usually mild, making it a perfect destination for shivering southerners.
Where To Stay On Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is not known as a budget destination but there are lots of options available in terms of where you lay your head. If you have money to burn, like luxury and what to escape the riff raff you need to be at Qualia. While it looks amazing, a starting price of $1000 a night puts it out of my league. The Beach Club and The Yacht Club Villas also offer a level of luxury and exclusivity but with a slighter lower price tag. We chose instead to stay at the more reasonable priced Whitsunday Apartments which offered everything we needed for our four nights. The Palm Bungalows and Reef View Hotel sit somewhere in between. If you are looking for something different why not try a holiday home? There are lots on offer and you are sure to find something to suit. Air BnB is also an option, particularly for groups and many properties come with a golf buggy. Don’t book on Air BnB without claiming a $40 Air BnB credit on me to save even more. Do your own search on Agoda to see what is available for your preferred dates.
Getting Around
There are no cars on Hamilton Island (except for service vehicles) so you essentially have three choices; walk, buggy or the bus. You can hire a buggy for $87 a day and it’s a fun way to explore, but like us, you won’t need it for the whole time you are there. Hamilton Island is relatively compact so getting around on foot is easy if you don’t mind the odd hill here and there. The the free purple, orange and green buses will sort you out when you’ve had enough of shanks’ pony. To get the lay of the land, I suggest getting on either a purple of orange bus and doing one full loop at the start of your stay.
Wining & Dining
One of the biggest changes I noticed since our last visit was the improvement in dining options on Hamilton island. Every taste is catered for and options range from casual to fine dining. We sampled quite a few and my favourites were the Marina Tavern, Manta Ray and Coca Chu. Check out my detailed post on eating out on HI here.
Things To Do
For a small island there is plenty to keep you amused on Hamilton Island. Each week HIE publishes an activity guide which I suggest you download before you go to get the very best out of your time on the ground. While most activities are at a cost there are a few free options sprinkled in for good measure. As you would expect many options are on the water and we loved our Explore sunset cruise and Whitehaven Beach trips which were not as exy as you may think. Walking trails abound on the island, so make sure you pack some decent shoes as thongs just won’t cut it on these trails. Bowling, go karting and a wildlife park will keep the kids amused and adults can hang out in the gym or the spa for a bit of ahhh and ahhh. Shopping is a little lack lustre but I still managed to pick up a fun bangle from the marina shops and some essential eye cream from the gift store. Catseye beach is the epicentre of HI’s watersports with kayaks and catamarans available for hire. Night life is a little slow in this part of the world but on the weekend you might be lucky to catch some live music at the tavern. Most importantly, take some time to relax and soak up some sunshine on a deckchair on the sand.
If you haven’t been to Hamilton Island or if it’s been a while, it might just be a perfect time to visit!
Until Next Time …
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links for which a small commission may be paid. As always all opinions are my own.
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Justice Haikela says
Wow, I love the look of the blue water and the the white sand is quite alluring. While you escaping the winters I would like to escape Namibian summer to Hamilton not just for a perfect weather but for the food too. ?
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The beaches are lovely in The Whitsundays Justice. A must see if your make it down under.
Kris says
Another beautiful getaway in Australia. The stay were quite pricey, great choice on choosing the affordable one..I’m sure you enjoy the stay.
$87 for a day buggy looks like a freat deal too. Great for photowalks..and you’re not really walking so that’s totally convinient. 
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Kris. While I would have loved to have done HI in luxury I just don’t have a Qualia budget lol
Punita Malhotra says
Wow….this seems like a great resort-type holiday. The place looks great in the pictures, and I’m sure in reality its even more beautiful. Love the color of the water and the ambience of the resort. A lot of food choices too…what more does one need on a holiday..
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Exactly Punita! I think food choices on an island is a big plus. So many go with the ‘we’ve got you here and you have no choice than to eat what is available’ manta. The water is almost too good to be true ?
Jan Michael De Guzman says
This place looks really awesome and i am much amaze with the blue waters. It looks unreal because it is too beautiful. Hope i could visit there soon.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really is beautiful Jan and seriously photos do not do it justice. Hope you get there soon so you can experience it for yourself!
Nadine Smith says
Two things that caught my eye: your dress (I love it!) and the blue waters! Wow! It almost doesn’t seem real! My husband is from Australia and we plan to move there one of these days. I’d love to visit Hamilton Island!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Good work marrying and Aussie Nadine lol and another Smith too ? I’ve travelled extensively but honestly couldn’t see myself living anywhere else! Hope you get to Hamilton Island soon ?
Arnav @ Eat, Travel, Live and REPEAT says
Hamilton Island looks quite a location for a relaxed vacation with plenty of food options.I can just imagine how relaxing the islands may be as there are no cars.Would love to go for a detox holiday away from the city chaos.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It’s the perfect spot for that Arnav ?
Tina and Jimmy says
Hamilton Island looks Amazing! Buggy ride here We come! I love the pace of walking or as we call them golf carts instead of the hustle and bustle of traffic! I’d love the sunset cruise with a glass of wine in tow
Clare says
Wow it looks amazing. I never made it that far north when I was in Australia, but when I return I am going to this island. I will be looking at the budget option but it certainly looks like it’s a must
Joaquim Miro says
Yet another destination to add when going to Australia!! I travel on a pretty tight budget these days though so I would have to wait until the next big flight deal, and walk or bus as the buggy is a bit too expensive!! But maybe by the time I get there I will be able to afford it fingers crossed
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I thought the buggy was expensive as well. We only hired for one day to do all our exploring and pretty must walked the rest.
Laura Nalin says
I can’t get over how blue that water is! I’ve just moved to New Zealand and would love to visit Australia when I get the opportunity. I’ll definitely keep this all in mind – what a lovely way to spend the winter!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You are so close now in NZ and flights are cheap so no excuse not to visit Oz! It’s just as lovely in summer
Alexis Rivard says
This looks gorgeous. Next time I’m in Australia I will have to check it out!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You won’t be sorry Alexis!
Danielle Des says
The photo of you at the beach, is that Catseye beach? The water is so blue and clear! The downloadable guide of things to do is a great resource for visitors.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
No that’s actually Whitehaven beach which we took a quick boat ride to. Whitehaven consistently rates in the top 10 beaches in the world and has some of the whitest sand on the planet with crystal clear water. It’s not to be missed when you are on HI. I have a separate post on Whitehaven, you should check it out ?
Erika Bisbocci says
The Whitsunday Islands have been on my list for a long time. They look absolutely amazing! It seems like there is a lot to do there too!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I say do it now Erika. There are a few islands to pick from so island hopping is also an option ?
Anisa says
That beach looks so lovely, so adding to my list for my next trip to Australia. I also like that there are no cars on the island.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It was a lot of fun getting around in the buggy for a day ?
Jacq says
Oh my gosh! How I wish I were in a paradise similar to that. As I’m typing this comment, I’m literally under 2 layers of blankets and sitting beside the heater.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I’m hearing you Jacq. It’s a cold wet night in Sydney and I’m longing for some sunshine!
Diana says
I have never been to Hamilton Islands and literally knew nothing about it until reading your post. I love small islands like that where it’s possible to explore the entire island vs. larger islands where everyone just stays in the beach resorts. Will have to add it to my list!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You won’t be sorry Diana!
Faith says
Sounds like a great place. Jealous you got a ticket for $300. I have to go check out your tips now ? Btw, Loved your dress in the top photo!
xx
Faith
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Faith. $300 was for two return tickets which makes it an even better bargain! Hamilton Island will always be very special to me. I just hope it’s not another 13 years before I get to return!
Lottie Reeves says
Hamilton Island looks beautiful! Thanks for the wanderlust inspiration
I love spending time on islands and when they have plenty of activities, thats even better!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really is lovely Lottie! To be honest given we were only there for 4 days this time and had been before I was pretty happy just to chill but we really enjoyed the trips we did take.
Sandra says
Looks amazing but a bit out of my league budget-wise, for now. It doesn’t mean I will strike it off my list just yet
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Sandra you definitely need to be careful if you are on a budget. A great way to go would be get a group together and share a house/unit to split the costs!
Fee says
Looks amazing. I’m yet to venture as far as Australia but i’d definitely like to check out those views!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You will love the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef Fee … It’s truly a spectacular place
Angela Nicolas says
Nice shot! Awesome view.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Angela!
Sarah says
Looks amazing, never been Down Under! Some of the pics look almost Medierreanean, although that last one with the stormy sky is really cool.
Love your style, wish I could wear stuff like that….or even find it lol!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You have to visit Sarah! So many amazing places to see in Australia. That day the weather was crazy we experience 4 seasons in half an hour never mind 1 day. My photos over the period of two hours looks so strikingly different. Mother Nature sure is a fickle beast!