The Ultimate Guide toHamilton Island

It’s easy and affordable to get to the island, with travellers able to fly direct to Hamilton Island Airport or to Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine Airport) on the mainland. If you opt for the latter, you can then sail or take a ferry to the island from Airlie Beach, the main town in the Whitsundays. Alternatively, you can drive to Airlie or hop aboard one of numerous coach services that ply Australia’s East Coast, or even take a chopper to make an extra special entrance (brides, take note). Once on Hamilton Island, you’ll want to hire a golf buggy for when you’re too chilled out to walk.

Hamilton Island is brimming with fantastic accommodations that will make for a memorable stay. There are cool hideouts, beach-front hotels, five-star resorts and grand holiday homes rounded up in our Hamilton Island accommodation guide.

A magnet for the rich and famous, Hamilton Island is renowned for its luxury accommodations. And if you’re travelling for a special occasion or honeymoon, there’s no doubt qualia steals the limelight. 

If you’re travelling with family, you’re spoilt for choice with where to stay, so we’ve collated the best options for you in our family accommodation guide.

For a destination that ticks all the family boxes, Hamilton Island nails it. There’s sand, sun, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding and sailing, as well as a plethora of adrenaline-inducing activities such as quad biking, parasailing and jet-skiing. Our guide to the best things for families to do on Hamilton Island will ensure everyone stays happy as will these tips for having a perfect family holiday.

There is no shortage of amazing things to do on Hamilton Island. If you’re looking to get active, there are several picturesque walks and hikes to go on that will showcase the beauty of the island. Couples planning a honeymoon here will be blessed with a range of activities that will make this a trip you cherish forever. And no Hamilton trip would be complete without a dip in some idyllic beaches and pools.

Hamilton Island is also the perfect launching point for scuba diving tours, sunset cruises, fishing charters, and scenic flights over the reef. Find our pick of the best day trips from Hamilton Island here

But your biggest problem will be trying to squeeze everything in, so we will help you prioritise with our pick of the top things to do on Hamilton Island here.

From casual eateries and takeaway shops to cocktail bars and high-end restaurants, Hamilton Island has plenty of dining choices. We’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best options. From Asian fusion and contemporary Italian to beachside fine dining and classic fish and chips, Hamilton Island restaurants cater to all tastes and budgets. 

Hamilton Island weather is idyllic most of the year, however winter (June-August) is an especially great time to visit as you won’t need to worry about doonas and woollen socks. Daytime temperatures average 24 degrees Celsius, while at night you won’t need much more than a cardigan. If you love sailing, you’ll want to arrive around August, when skies are clear and there’s a decent breeze.

For those seeking peace and quiet, consider visiting during the off-season, from January to March, although pack an umbrella in preparation for tropical showers.

If you want to leave planning your Hamilton Island getaway in the hands of experts, there are several packages to choose from. Hotels and tour companies team up to offer visitors accommodation, activity and meal packages that cater to various holiday styles and budgets. It’s common for hotels and other Hamilton Island accommodation providers to share facilities, such as pools, and to work together to provide kids-stay-and-eat-free packages. You’ll also find you can book tours direct through your hotel, with Hamilton Island Tour Desk and via companies on the mainland in Airlie Beach.