Everything to Add to Your Hamilton Island Itinerary
Image: Tania Richardson
Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most treasured luxury getaway destinations. And for good reason. Set amidst the sparkling, tropical seas of North Queensland’s iconic Whitsundays, Hamilton Island is home to world-class resorts and breathtaking natural scenery, from palm-studded sandy beaches that skirt azure-blue waters to imposing rocky cliffs and eucalyptus forest
With plenty of places to stay and so much to do, it’s worthwhile to plan ahead to make the most of this tropical paradise. Read on for the best advice on luxury accommodations on Hamilton Island, as well as sightseeing and recreation throughout the pristine tropical waters beyond.
Where to Stay on Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is no stranger to luxury. Home to more than a few globally renowned resorts, the island has been graced by celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Leo DiCaprio and is the holiday destination of choice for many of Australia’s high-flying business and social elite. With a range of resort-style accommodations available, there is something to suit every holidaymaker and their travel companions.
qualia
Image: qualia
Elegant, stylish and supremely comfortable, qualia offers Hamilton Island’s ultimate luxury resort experience in an intimate boutique setting. Located on the shores of the island’s secluded northern point, qualia has been carefully designed to harmonise with its surrounding natural environment. The resort’s rich timber and stone design seamlessly blends the outdoors with the indoors and treats guests to a stimulating sensory experience, backed by sublime views of the sparkling coral sea and the surrounding Whitsunday Islands.
qualia’s impressive accommodation offerings begin with the intimate Leeward and Windward Pavilions. At a glance, these studio-style suites artfully blend the Australian beach-house and bush-lodge aesthetics with generous, open-plan living and private sundecks, all made and furnished in the rich, earthy tones of polished hardwood. The Windward Pavilions also feature a luxurious, private infinity-pool where guests can enliven and refresh themselves while they bask in the stunning vistas of island and sea beyond.
The crown jewel of the resort is its coveted Beach House. Nestled tantalisingly close to the crystalline sea, the Beach House offers ultimate luxury and privacy. This lodging can accommodate small groups between its two bedrooms and entertain many more by day across its spacious terrace and living room.
All guests at qualia are treated to a VIP transit service to the resort, from either the Hamilton Island airstrip or mainland Queensland’s marinas that connect the island. Once settled, a complimentary, 24-hour chauffeur service and personal electric golf-buggy are on hand for guests to explore the island at their own pace.
Experiencing Hamilton Island
Whether you prefer to pamper yourself and utterly relax on vacation, or you’re one to get out and intrepidly explore your new surroundings, Hamilton Island offers a huge range of activities to stimulate the senses and make unforgettable memories.
Image: Spa qualia
The spa at qualia is the ideal place for Hamilton visitors looking for absolute relaxation and sensory indulgence. A tranquil oasis that connects the mind and body, Spa qualia uses a range of high-quality Australian-made spa products in a range of services including massage, beauty and aromatherapy. From the kaolin clay body masque to the romantic ‘Roman’ bath for couples, Spa qualia’s therapies and services are guaranteed to relieve and revitalise.
Image: Hamilton Island Golf Club
Whether you’re an avid golfer or only occasionally hit at the driving range, the Hamilton Island Golf Club is a must-see on your island getaway. Spanning the length of Hamilton’s close neighbour, Dent Island, this 18-hole championship course features cleverly designed, challenging fairways and greens, all among some of the most breathtaking vistas imaginable. The Clubhouse makes for the perfect place to unwind after a game or complimentary tour of the island, where guests can enjoy Lazy lunches on the club terrace, drenched in the golden afternoon sun.
Hamilton Island on Foot
Image: Hamilton Island
One of the best ways to experience the natural scenery of the island is on foot, through its network of bush trails that weave over forested hills and along the spectacular rocky coast. With several pristine, deserted beaches and picnic-perfect lookouts connected by the trails, there’ll be no shortage of sights to take in (and photos to snap!). The Resort Centre is the activities hub of the island, and easily accessible on foot from any of the island’s trails. With a handful of boutique stores, and the famous Coca Chu and Sails restaurants and bars, it is the perfect place to relax and indulge after a long day’s exploration.
Hamilton Island by Sea
Image: Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island sits in the middle of a unique and truly spectacular aquatic playground. From kayak and board hire to reef tours, there are many options available for the water-sporty and the casual snorkeler alike to experience the island’s slice of marine paradise in the Coral Sea. Non-motorised watercraft can be rented from Hamilton Island Beach Sports at Catseye beach, from which visitors can paddle out among the vibrant corals of Hamilton Island Reef. Guided snorkelling tours also embark from Catseye Beach that take visitors up close and personal with the dazzling marine wildlife surrounding the island.
Whether you’re looking to arrange a tropical escape for the whole family, or spoiling your significant other with a romantic getaway, Hamilton Island is the perfect destination. With spectacular reefs, picturesque rolling hills and unrivalled relaxation all at your fingertips, you and your loved one’s will be making memories to last a lifetime.
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