The 5 Most Indulgent Stays in The Whitsundays
Opens in a new tab or windowWake up footsteps from the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.
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Catseye Beach
Hamilton Island
Surrounded by pristine white beaches, a beautiful array of coral and marine life and sun-drenched swimming pools, Hamilton Island is a perfect base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Discover the secrets of this magical piece of the Whitsunday Islands with our travel guide.
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Places to stay
Hamilton Island is considered the must-see of the Whitsundays. The island offers resort style accommodation set against the backdrop of the Coral Sea. Stay on dry land by basing yourself in one of the private Holiday Homes or hotels along Catseye Beach with various access to the resorts pools, tennis courts, island shuttle buses and non motorised water sports. The Reef View Hotel is a favourite amoung holiday makers, with stunning views over the sea and buffet breakfast. Whitsundays Appartments are wonderful for families or couples who prefer a self-contained apartment with kitchen and bbq facilities. For the epitome of love under the sun, enjoy qualia - an ideal romantic and luxurious resort that's a favourite among honeymooners and couples. It’s a tropical oasis with lavish pavilions, gourmet dining and infinity pools offering up stunning views. Airbnb's dotted over the island offer the ideal soluion for group style accomodation, some include a golf buggy to get around the island.
Nearby Airlie Beach on the mainland offers variety of places to stay - from backpackers to 4-star hotels. Catch a ferry to Hamilton Island or to explore some of the others islands that make up the Whitsundays.
Multi-day cruises or yachts charters are also a great way to explore the endless islands the Whitsundays has to share. No matter where you decide to drift off to sleep at night, the sounds of the ocean will never be too far when you find your slice of Hamilton Island paradise.
Things to do
In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is one of 74 islands that make up the famous Whitsundays. Set foot on the island and be surrounded by pristine white sand beaches, swimgin palm trees and a rainbow of coral and marine life.
There's plenty to do with watersports, tours, cruises and scenic flights all on offer for all ages. Cruise to world-famous Whitehaven Beach for a day of sun, sand and crystal clear water, take a day trip and go diving or snorkelling on the Reef or set sail through the surrounding islands with a range of bareboat and chartered sailing options. By far the best swimming beach is Catseye Beach on the eastern side of the island.
If you prefer land based activities, hike Passage Peak, the highest point on the island along with 20km worth of bushwalking trails on the island with great views over the Whitsundays, pack a picnic and watch the sunset at One Tree Hill and be sure to hire a buggy to get around the island. For keen golfers, it's worth playing a round on the Hamilton Island Golf Club located on its own private island.
You'll find a selection of bars, restaurants or the sailing club where you can enjoy a superb meal, marvel at the spectacular views, and soak up the relaxed island atmosphere.
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13 Things to Do on Hamilton Island
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5 Reasons Hamilton Island is the Perfect Family Stay
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Read more on Travel InsiderOpens in a new tab or windowGetting around
Hamilton Island is a car-free destination, with buggies the main mode of transport. There is a free shuttle service that follows three routes around the island and all accommodation bookings include free transfers to and from the Hamilton Island Airport. Visitors can also hire iconic golf buggies, for self-touring and a fun, convenient way to get around. Its best to pre-book a buggy in advance to beat the queue.
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