Hamilton Island: Luxurious hotels for every budget

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In need of an escape?

You don't have to go far to be transported to a tropical oasis just off the coast of Queensland's Whitsunday's.

Measuring a humble 5km² is Hamilton Island, home to a small close-knit community and a luxurious destination for travellers.

A cabin at the qualia resort, Hamilton Island featuring pool and backing on to picturesque trees, a rocky beach and water
Qualia is Hamilton Island's most exclusive resort with private access to the north end of the island and 24/7 unlimited service. Photo: Tripadvisor

Lined by the Great Barrier Reef and boasting an extraordinary landscape of untouched nature reserves, vast white sandy beaches and clear, turquoise oceans; it's no surprise this stunning island draws people in from far and wide.

Whether you'd like to take the family on an unforgettable holiday, experience the unbelievable nature the island has to offer or make a once-in-a-lifetime trip with your loved one, Hamilton Island has plenty to offer.

A photo of Hamilton Island featuring lush green trees and crystal clear waters
Hamilton Island is a favourite tropical destination for travellers far and wide for its extraordinary coastal landscape. Photo: Getty

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Where to stay

Hamilton Island offers a varied selection of welcoming accommodation to suit everyone's needs.

There's a range of deals and packages depending on your interests, including all-inclusive stays at primary resorts, free added nights and incredible experiences to tie in with your accommodation.

The Reef View Hotel is located directly opposite Catseye Beach and is a great option for families and groups, situated close to restaurants, activities and entertainment.

If you'd like your own space but still want to be close to the island's amenities, Palm Bungalows offer modern and coastal modern self-contained bungalows, each equipped with a kitchenette, private balcony and use of water sports equipment.

A leafy bungalow at Palm Bungalows with palm tress in front and hammock on deck
Palm Bungalow's offer guests self-contained living while receiving the amenities of the resort with beach access. Photo: hamiltonisland.com.au

For romantic couple getaways, Beach Club is the island's ultimate adults-only resort built on Catseye Beach with a sweeping infinity pool overlooking views of the shimmering Coral Sea.

For a truly unforgettable experience, qualia resort offers guests a unique experience located on the northern tip of the island via private access.

Accommodating guests aged 16 or over, each guest receives 24/7 VIP service with the use of a private golf buggy, helicopter access, chauffer service and the resort's heavenly panoramic views.

Groups and families will also love the self-contained Yacht Club Villas with breathtaking views over Dent Passage, or the extensive list of luxurious holiday homes available for private island living.

A bath looking out over the island waters at qualia resort
Qualia is a private resort on the north end of the island accessed only by guests via VIP transport. Source: hamiltonisland.com.au

What to do

Nestled on the outskirts of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island offers an unforgettable experience for everyone no matter your interests.

You can't beat the Whitsunday's stunning coastline, so why not hire or charter a boat to explore the surrounding islands.

Adrenalin junkies can take part in the island's extensive list of water sports while scenic helicopter flights offer an incredible perspective of the stunning coast.

Ariel view of a plane flying over the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's natural wonders and provides an incredible view from a scenic plane or helicopter in Hamilton Island. Souce: hamiltonisland.com.au

Keen on a slower pace of life?

There's plenty of fishing tours and walking trails available, while families and animal lovers can meet koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and kookaburras in regular wildlife tours.

Of course, if you'd like to spend all day sunbaking by the water and booking yourself in for a luxurious spa treatment, there are plenty of beautiful resorts and spa's that will be more than happy to welcome you.

If in doubt, always check the Weekly Activity Guide to see what's on.

Where to eat

While a small island, Hamilton Island is packed with sophisticated restaurants, casual family eateries and delicious takeaway spots.

All of the island's most in-demand restaurants and bars deliver jaw-dropping waterfront views, like Bommie Deck's uninterrupted 180-degree views high over the ocean and One Tree Hill's bird's-eye view of the Whitsundays while you dine.

View of the coastline and waters from the deck of the One Tree Hill restaurant
Hamilton Island's One Tree Hill restaurant delivers unbeatable views of the stunning coastline offering diners an unforgettable dining experience. Source: Liven

For something more laid back, relax and take the kids for gelato, fish & chips and casual dining at Popeye's Takeaway or the Pizzeria and Gelato Bar.

It's important to know that Hamilton Island is a cashless environment so make sure you come prepared, while pre-booking is required for lunch and dinners at certain restaurants.

Before you head over, make sure to check the weekly Restaurant/Café/Bar opening times.

Is there anything else I need to know?

Hamilton Island is so unique due to its beautifully preserved natural landscape and exclusive island lifestyle.

As such, most of the island is car-free and only accessed via golf buggies or small aircraft.

It's important to organise transport before you arrive, so be sure to liaise with your accommodation upon booking.

A golf buggy with the picturesque coral sea in the background
Explore Hamilton Island by golf buggy, as the island is a car-free zone. Source: hamiltonisland.com.au

Cash deposits and withdrawals can be made using the Bank@Post service at the Australia Post office on Front Street, where cash can also be exchanged for pre-paid or top-up Mastercards.

If you need other supplies once on the island, there is an IGA supermarket at the southern end of Front Street in the Marina Village as well as a bottle shop next door.

For more information, see the Hamilton Island website where your holiday awaits.

Enjoy!

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