Hamilton Island is a little piece of paradise that we are lucky to get to call home here at WAHI. Much like many of the other Whitsunday Islands, Hamilton Island was formed as sea levels rose, which created drowned mountains just off the East coast of Queensland.
If you need to brush up on some of your knowledge before you visit us or you’re considering a Hamilton Island holiday, below are 10 amazing things you might not know about Hamilton Island.
1. Cars are a rare sighting
Being car-free makes Hamilton Island all the more tranquil. Don’t worry though, getting around the island is extremely convenient and fast. The island's main form of transport is the famous golf buggies that the island has become known for. If you would like to cruise around on a buggy, a driver’s license is required and we recommend booking ahead to avoid missing out. Otherwise, if you would like to sit back and let someone else take the wheel there is a free shuttle bus around the island.
2. Hamilton Island was purpose-built for tourism
Hamilton Island was purchased by Australian winemaker Bob Oatley in 2003. Since it’s purchase the island has been transformed into one of the world’s best holiday destinations. As Hamilton Island was purpose-built to make sure you enjoy your holiday, it means you have everything you could possibly need at your fingertips. This includes restaurants, shops, a supermarket, bars, ferry services and medical services.
3. It is the largest inhabited island of the Whitsunday Islands
The island has a permanent population of around 1300 people who are living the island dream. This includes staff, business owners, contractors, and numerous private residents who own holiday homes or have retired on the island. There is even a small primary school of about 60 kids whose parents work on the island.
4. Hamilton Island is one of the only Whitsunday Islands with an airport
Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach make up the two main airports of the Whitsunday region. With direct flights from Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, operated by Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Qantas, Hamilton Island is hassle-free to get to.
Once you arrive you will immediately feel like you have switched into holiday mode. Met with the beautiful palms and tropical air, you will be greeted by a complimentary bus to WAHI which only takes about 5 minutes.
5. Hamilton Island is neighbours to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches
Here on Hamilton Island, we are lucky to be in great company with some amazing neighbouring islands. In fact, the white sands of Whitehaven Beach are only a thirty-minute catamaran trip away. Not to mention there are plenty of beautiful beaches right here on Hamilton Island. One of our favourites, Catseye Beach, is right on our doorstep.
6. Hamilton Island is a hotspot for weddings
It’s a no-brainer why lots of people choose Hamilton Island as their wedding destination. The island hosts about 500 wedding ceremonies a year, from small elopements to big weddings with hundreds of guests. With beautiful warm year-round temperatures, you can even have your wedding in winter and still enjoy our balmy weather.
7. It’s a yachtie’s dream
Not only do the Oatley family own Hamilton Island, but they also own the famous Wild Oats XI yacht. The 100 ft long ocean racing thoroughbred is known for its record-breaking nine line honour wins in the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht race. Knowing this, it should come at no surprise that Hamilton Island is a yachties dream. The marina has 251 berths and if you have been to the marina you will probably marvel at the beautiful boats that hang out there. The islands showcase event is also the Audi Hamilton Island race week which has been going for 30 years and is internationally renowned.
8. You never know what celebrity you might run into on the island
If you visit Hamilton Island you will be among great company, with A-listers such as Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, Miranda Kerr and Orlando Bloom choosing to holiday here. At least two famous films have also been made on the island–Muriel’s wedding and Fool’s Gold.
9. The golf course has its own island
The golf course on Hamilton Island could be a destination in its own right. Situated on the spectacular ridges and steep valleys of Dent Island, the course boasts 360 views of the Whitsunday Islands. A short ferry ride over from Hamilton Island will transport you to a golfers paradise. It’s the only 18-hole championship golf course on its own island in Australia and was designed by the legendary Australian golfer Peter Thomson. Once you have finished a great day of golf, head to the clubhouse at the top of the island for incredible views and a menu inspired by fresh, seasonal produce.
10. WAHI is the best place to stay on the Island
Located right on the front of Catseye Beach, surrounded by beautiful lush palms and our lagoon swimming pool, our apartments are self-contained and spacious. With a separate bedroom, dual access bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area and balcony you will have everything you need and more.
Hamilton island really is a unique and unforgettable island that we think everyone should have the opportunity to visit. If you are planning a Hamilton Island getaway contact us today on +61 7 4969 9905, email us here or book direct on our website here.
