Exploring Hamilton Island on foot is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty at your own pace. Discover secluded beaches, glistening water views and sandy coves with The Hikers Guide to Hamilton Island.
The Whitsundays are known for having postcard-perfect beaches and an incredible underwater world, but there is plenty to see on the land too! With a seemingly endless number of walking tracks to choose from, the WAHI team has rounded up our favourite picks for the days when you feel like getting your body moving.
Resort Lookout
Duration: 1.7km one-way
There is truly only one word to describe the Resort Lookout walk – stunning. As the second-highest point on the island, the trail provides excellent panoramic views of the lush greenery, marina village, airport and surrounding islands. If you’re a morning person, we suggest setting your alarm nice and early so that you can venture up the 1.7km walk for sunrise. There is something pretty special about watching the golden sun rays peek over the horizon and dance across the still waters from the lookout.
Image credit: @emma_mcbreen
Passage Peak Lookout
Duration: 2.65km one-way
Despite being a crowd favourite, the Passage Peak walking trail is never too busy. The walk is slightly more challenging than the Resort Lookout trail, particularly for the second half. But once you’ve tackled the final steep section of the trail and reached the highest point on the island, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the Whitsundays. Be sure to take your camera, because this is a view you’ll want to hold onto forever.
South East Head Trail
Duration: 4.4 km one-way
If you want to build up a sweat and really get your nature fix, this is the hike for you. The first section of the South East Head Trail winds up to a nice lookout, with views back across Catseye Beach. Take a moment here to enjoy the outlook before you tackle the steep hill ahead. Follow the signs along the way, and you’ll eventually find yourself at a gigantic chair that sits on top of this east coast. For the more adventurous, you can extend your walk by linking up with the Passage Peak lookout trail.
Coral Cove
Duration: 2.5km one-way
Coral Cove is a secluded, peaceful and relaxing beach where you can enjoy views towards Lindeman Island. The short but steep climb to reach the beach takes you through rocky outcrops and dense greenery, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. You’ll know you’ve reached the end of the trail when you find yourself at a giant swing that overlooks the crystal-clear water. It’s really just a dream come true.
Image credit: @amythest192
Escape Beach
Duration: 3.3km one-way
The Escape Beach trail is as beautiful as they come. The walk along the southern part of the island is the perfect combination of rugged bushland and the vast blue water views that the Whitsundays is known for. The trail also passes through a beautiful creek that is often teeming with butterflies and finishes at the ridge of Escape Beach – which looks quite literally like a deserted island.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to relax after a big day exploring Hamilton Island by foot, you can book your stay at WAHI here. We can’t wait to give you a WAHI welcome and hear all about your adventures!
