Suggested Holiday Itineraries

Suggested Holiday Itineraries

Are you dreaming of your perfect Hamilton Island getaway but not sure where to start?

Our team at Whitsunday Holidays/Hamilton Island Luxury Homes has you covered! We’ve curated a variety of suggested itineraries tailored to every type of holidaymaker. Whether you’re a busy mum craving some well-earned relaxation, a family looking to create unforgettable memories, or a couple seeking a romantic tropical escape, our expert reservations team has shared how they’d spend their time on this island paradise.

Dive into our personalized itineraries and discover the ultimate Hamilton Island holiday designed just for you!

7 Days in Paradise – No Kids!

by Kristie Kaighin/Founder – married couple no kids

Suggested Holiday Itineraries
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Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Arrive on Hamilton Island where your valet will meet you and take you to your accommodation. Settle in and unpack. Perhaps a quick trip to the IGA Supermarket in your buggy for some supplies.
Relax by the beach or poolside. Did you know there is a shared pool at your accommodation, but you will also have access to the Resort pool, Dolphin pool and Bougainvillea pool on Catseye Beach?
Sunset:
 head to One Tree Hill for a cold drink and the most amazing sunset views!
Dinner option: Choose between dining out at one of the island’s restaurants or enjoying a pre-ordered gourmet platter in the comfort of your accommodation.

Click here to view the gourmet platters available to pre-order.

Day 2: Island Exploration

Morning: Explore Hamilton Island with a golf buggy, visiting popular spots like Catseye Beach and One Tree Hill.
Lunch: The Marina Tavern, MantaRay or Sails are all great lunch spots!
Afternoon: Relax with a spa treatment – click here to view options.
Sunset:
 The Bommie Deck is perfect for a sunset drink.  Watch the boats come and go into the marina.
Evening:
 Dinner at CoCaChu, Romanos or MantaRay

Day 3: Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Full-day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling or diving. Click here for tour options.
Return to Hamilton Island for a relaxing evening.
Why not a casual dinner of Fish n Chips at Popeyes or Pizza at the Pizzeria and Gelato Bar.

Day 4: Water Sports and Leisure

Morning: Try water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding or try your skill at a Hobie Cat. Visit Wildlife Hamilton Island.
Lunch: Dent Island Golf Club is a must. A five minute boat trip to Dent Island. Enjoy a buggy tour of the golf course and return to the golf club for an amazing gourmet meal.  Hint: try the carrots as a side – delish!
Sunset: enjoy a sunset cruise on board On The Edge. Click here to view. Or perhaps you prefer a private luxury sunset cruise? Click here to view
Evening: Dine in with a pre-ordered seafood platter. Click here to view the gourmet platters available to pre-order.

Day 5: Whitehaven Beach Excursion

Day trip to Whitehaven Beach, known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Click here for tour options.
Enjoy snorkelling, beachcombing, and a gourmet picnic lunch.
Return to Hamilton Island in the late afternoon for a leisurely evening.
Feel like a night out? Check the schedule for where a band is playing or maybe you fancy a bit of trivia? Download the Hamilton Island App.

Day 6: A Little Exercise, A Little Cocktail

Morning: Walk to Passage Peak for some exercise and a view at the top worth the effort!
Afternoon: A lazy day by the Bougainvillea pool with a cocktail and a good book.
Evening: BBQ Sunset Dinner Cruise. Click here to view.

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Relax and enjoy breakfast with a view on your balcony.
Check out: Your valet will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport or ferry terminal.
Sift through your photos and start dreaming of your next Hamilton Island holiday

7 Days of Fun – Family Adventure

7 day itinerary by Clare Rushby/Reservations and Charter Manager – family of 4, 2 adults, 2 kids.

Suggested Holiday Itineraries
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Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a valet service that will escort you to your accommodation, ensuring a seamless start to your holiday.
Once settled in, take a quick trip to the local IGA to collect some groceries and your pre-ordered beautifully prepared seafood platters from Fishi, perfect for a casual and delicious dinner on your first night.
Afterward, unwind and relax by the pool. Let the kids splash around or enjoy some sun as you take in the serene atmosphere of the island. It’s a great way to decompress and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Island Exploration and Family Fun

Begin your day with an exploration of the island. Head to the Resort pools for a refreshing morning dip.
Next, head to Catseye Beach for some family fun. At low tide, grab your snorkels and dive into the clear waters to swim with the turtles – an unforgettable experience that the kids will love.
After a beachside lunch, challenge each other to a friendly round of Mini Golf. It’s a fun and relaxed way to spend the afternoon while keeping the whole family entertained.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Mantarays, a highly recommended spot offering stunning views and a menu full of delicious dishes.

Day 3: Adventure and Sunset Picnic

Get your adrenaline pumping in the morning with an Off-Road Adventure Tour. Traverse the island’s rugged trails, taking in breathtaking landscapes.
After an action-packed morning, take some time to relax by one of the island’s many pools. You could enjoy a book poolside or cool off with a swim while the kids play.
In the evening, pack a picnic and head up to One Tree Hill for sunset drinks. It’s one of the island’s most iconic spots, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and a perfect vantage point to watch the sky turn vibrant shades of pink and orange. Settle in for a relaxed, casual dinner as you take in the beauty of the setting sun.

Day 4: Full-Day Family Reef Adventure

Today’s all about exploring the Great Barrier Reef! Head out on a full-day family snorkel Reef trip where you can experience the vibrant marine life up close. Snorkel among the corals, spot colorful fish, and maybe even see a few reef sharks or rays.
The tour typically includes lunch and snacks, so you’ll be well taken care of. For those who prefer not to snorkel, semi-submarine rides are great options to still experience the Reef’s wonders. You can even enjoy a helicopter joy ride over Heart Reef!

After a day full of adventure, return to your accommodation to relax and recount your underwater experiences.

Day 5: Recovery and Wildlife Encounter

After your exciting day on the Reef, enjoy a slower morning. Sleep in and then take a leisurely swim by the pool or head back to Catseye Beach for a more relaxed experience.
In the afternoon, take a trip to the island’s Wildlife Park for a chance to meet some of Australia’s native animals. You can get up close with koalas, kangaroos, and even spot some exotic birds. The kids will love the opportunity to interact with the animals and learn more about the local wildlife.

Day 6: Half-Day Trip to Whitehaven Beach

Take a half-day tour to one of Australia’s most famous beaches: Whitehaven Beach. With its impossibly white silica sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is a must-see.
Spend the day soaking in the sun, swimming in the pristine waters, or simply lounging on the sand. You can also take a guided hike to Hill Inlet, which offers incredible views of the swirling sands and turquoise waters below.

After returning to the island, relax in the evening and perhaps enjoy a quiet dinner with the family, reminiscing about the stunning day.

Day 7: Departure

On your final morning, take one last swim at Catseye Beach, soaking in the island’s beauty before you leave.

Afterward, your valet service will be ready to take you to the airport, ensuring a smooth departure as you say goodbye to this wonderful island adventure.

7 Days with Friends

by Julie McAulay – two couples traveling together.

Suggested Holiday Itineraries
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Day 1: Arrival and BBQ Night

Upon arrival, enjoy valet service to your accommodation. After settling in, grab your buggy for a quick trip to IGA and bottle shop to stock up on BBQ essentials. Enjoy a relaxing evening grilling and catching up with friends, and don’t forget to pack a deck of cards for some fun!

Day 2: Scenic Helicopter Flight, Hike, and Beach Adventure

Start your day with a scenic helicopter flight over the Whitsundays, including breathtaking views of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. This non-stop tour offers up to three departures daily.
After the flight, take a morning hike to Coral Cove, a beautiful, secluded beach perfect for relaxation.

After your hike, unwind at the Resort Centre or one of the pools. When you’re ready for more fun, rent paddleboards or try out a catamaran from Beach Sports, located near Catseye Beach. Wrap up the day with dinner at Bommie Restaurant at the Yacht Club (make sure to book well in advance!).

Day 3: Great Barrier Reef Experience

Spend the day at the Great Barrier Reef on an interactive pontoon. Snorkel among vibrant corals and marine life. This is a must-do adventure!
Click here for further details: Great Barrier Reef Full Day Adventure

Day 4: Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Tour and Sunset Picnic

Enjoy a half-day trip to Whitehaven Beach, where you can relax on the stunning white sand and swim in clear waters. For some adventure, hike to Hill Inlet for breathtaking views.
Click here for further details: Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Tour 

In the evening, pack a picnic and head to One Tree Hill to watch the sunset. This spot offers panoramic views of the island and is a perfect way to end the day!

Day 5: Sunrise at Passage Peak and Adventure

Wake up early to watch the sunrise from Passage Peak, the highest point on Hamilton Island, offering stunning views of the Whitsundays. In the afternoon, choose between an ATV tour or a jet ski adventure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Day 6: Golf and Spa Day

Split up for the day:

  • Guys: Play golf at Hamilton Island Golf Club or enjoy a fishing charter (book well in advance!).
  • Girls: Pamper yourselves at Spa Wumurdaylin (be sure to book early!). Meet the guys for lunch on Dent Island afterward.

Day 7: Departure and Table Tennis

On your last day, relax at Catseye Beach or the Resort Centre. If your flight is late in the afternoon, take advantage of your time by holding a friendly table tennis competition at the Resort Centre to wrap up your trip with some fun!

Tips:

  • Pack a Day Bag: Have a day bag ready in case your accommodation isn’t ready.
  • Stay Active: Bring running shoes to explore the island’s trails.
  • Book Early: Reservations for restaurants, golf, and spa treatments need to be made well in advance.
  • Bring Snorkel Gear: If you have room in your luggage, pack your snorkel gear to enhance your underwater adventures!
  • Don’t Forget the Cards: A pack of cards is perfect for some light hearted fun in the evenings.
  • Nice Outfit: Pack a nice outfit for dinner at Bommie Restaurant!
  • Sunscreen: Always essential for those sunny days on the beach!
  • Cashless Island: Hamilton Island is a cashless island, so be sure to have your cards ready!
  • Explore Travel Insurance: Look into travel insurance options to suit your travel needs.

7 Days with a Toddler

by Elise Hill

Suggested Holiday Itineraries
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Day 1 – arrival and settling in

Upon arrival the valet will transfer you to your accommodation (don’t forget all children under 4 are required to be restrained to a car seat, you can hire these on the island if not available with your accommodation).

Stop by IGA for all your toddler and parent essentials, yoghurt, bread for toast, cheese, snacks, you know the drill! (don’t forget the bottle shop!)

After the chaos of travelling with a toddler, head down to the pizzeria or Popeyes for some takeaway, get the kids to bed early and enjoy some dinner on the balcony while the kids rest.

Day 2 – Family fun on the island

Take the kids for a drive around the island on the buggy, take a drive up to one tree hill and be sure to capture some family photos.

Depending on the kids age, go for a round of mini golf. Grab some lunch at sails by the pool and enjoy a swim and a drink at the swim up bar!

Day3 – Island Explorer

Before nap time take the kids out to the glass bottom semi-sub, they will love seeing all the marine life!

Go for an early dinner at the marina tavern.

Day 4- Whitehaven beach half day tour

This fantastic half day cruise takes you past some of the Whitsundays remote areas, beautiful bays, peaceful islands and onto dazzling Whitehaven Beach. Let the kids have a play in the sand and a splash in the water, and don’t forget the family photos on this iconic beach.

Day 5- Slow day with a wildlife experience

After a day out, spend today on the island, enjoying the beauty it has to offer. Take the kids for a swim in the morning or enjoy a morning walk on the beach at low tide and see what marine life they can spot.

In the afternoon visit the wildlife park. Enjoy a cuddle with a koala and get up close with the kangaroos. The kids will love it!

Day 6- a day by the pool

After hopefully a good night’s rest, feed the kids a quick breakfast and take a walk down to bobs bakery for a freshly made almond croissant and a large, iced latte to start your day, grab some freshly made sandwiches for lunch time too! Sit by the marina and watch the island start to wake up for the day while the kids watch the seagulls and cockatoos try to steal your food.

Spend the day by the resort centre pools (bougainvillea is great with little ones), don’t forget to pack your lunch and snacks!

Wrap the day up with an early dinner at CocaChu.

Day 7 – departure day

Go for a walk, splash at the beach in the morning. Do a thorough check of the property to make sure no loved toys are left behind.

Give the kids a run around before the valet service picks you up to take you to the airport, perhaps a new toy purchased from Trader Petes will keep them entertained for the flight home.

Travel tips with a toddler!

  • Always have snacks on hand!
  • Don’t forget swim nappies, sunscreen and hats!
  • BYO linen if using a portacot
  • If space permits, bring a cooler bag to take food out with you for the kids
  • Try book flights around kids nap times!
  • Check out time is 10am, try book an earlier flight on departure day to save sitting around the airport with a toddler.

7 Days Mum and Daughter (10 years) Holiday

by Stacey Marsh

Suggested Holiday Itineraries
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Day 1 –

Jump in your buggy and explore beautiful Hamilton Island! Take a drive through the Marina Village and stock up on essentials. Cruise through the Resort Centre and stop at one of the many pools for a swim. Swing by One Tree Hill to soak in the views and enjoy a cocktail to kick off your holiday!

Day 2 –

Take a trip to the Wildlife Park. Get up close to all kinds of Australian marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos. You can even meet the park’s very own giant crocodile! For something special you can book a VIP experience or Animal Encounter!

Enjoy lunch with Ocean views at Sails Restaurant.

Spend a lazy afternoon relaxing on Catseye Beach under a Palm Tree, before diving into the turquoise waters for a swim.

Day 3 –

Kick your day off with a walk up Passage Peak – the view is amazing! Make sure you leave nice and early to beat the heat.

Fuel your body with a healthy and delicious brunch at the Marina Café – I highly recommend the Marina Breakfast Roll!

Head off for an Afternoon Sunset Sail – the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak up the scenery of this stunning location in style.

Day 4 –

Visit the Great Barrier Reef! The Whitsundays is located in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef and is the perfect base to explore this aquatic wonderland.

Preorder a platter from Fishi so you can enjoy a delicious hassle free dinner when you return from a big day.

Day 5 –

Relax – lay by the pool, book in for a massage or spa treatment, enjoy a long lunch, find a shady spot and read your book – whatever you like!

Head to the Bommie Deck for magnificent Sunset views and a Champagne before dinner.

Coca Chu is always a popular choice for dinner – enjoy!

Day 6 –

Take a cruise to stunning Whitehaven Beach. Crystal-clear water and pristine untouched coastline. Sink your toes into the white silica sands of the renowned and award-winning Whitehaven Beach, one of the many jewels in The Whitsundays crown.

Day 7 –

After a snorkel at Catseye Beach (look out for Turtles!) pack up and take your buggy for a last cruise around this Island Paradise. Your valet service will transfer you to the airport for a hassle free departure.