The Ultimate Day on Hamilton Island: Curated by Courtney Barry
As Head of Marketing for Hamilton Island—and with years of experience working for Tourism Australia—Courtney Barry has a deep understanding of what makes a destination unforgettable. Here, she’s curated the ultimate day to showcase the best this island has to offer.
early morning: passage peak
Espresso down, sneakers on - I head for Passage Peak, aiming to reach the summit as close to sunrise as I can manage. The 5.3km return trek is a solid workout, but the golden glow over the Whitsundays is worth every step.
Mid-Morning: catseye beach & sails
I cool off with a swim at Catseye Beach, soak up the sun, and catch up on my latest fave podcast. Then, it’s over to Sails for a hearty breakfast—fresh fruit, eggs, and a strong coffee to set me up for the day.
day activity: journey to the heart
After breakfast, I step straight into my very own James Bond moment with Journey to the Heart—a helicopter flight over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and Heart Reef. Landing on a private pontoon, I hop into a glass-bottom boat for a front-row seat to the reef’s stunning marine life. Luxury, adventure, and pure spectacle—this is the Whitsundays at its best.
Afternoon: spa wumurdaylin
After today’s adventure, I sink into bliss at Spa Wumurdaylin, where the island’s natural beauty meets total relaxation. A signature treatment—think soothing massage, aromatic oils by La Gaia Unedited, and island-inspired rituals—melts away any lingering tension, leaving me completely rejuvenated.
Evening: one tree hill & pebble beach
I throw on a dress, a touch of makeup, and head to One Tree Hill—cocktail in hand, we watch the sun sink behind the stunning Whitsunday Islands. As the sky fades to gold, we make our way to Pebble Beach, qualia, where Executive Chef Joshua Hingston serves up an unforgettable degustation with perfectly paired wines.
“The most unique thing about Hamilton Island is its seamless blend of world-class experiences and untouched nature—a privately owned Australian tropical island where adventure and relaxation meet the raw beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays. Whether it’s sailing in Australia’s largest offshore regatta, dining at one of the island’s amazing restaurants, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, or spotting wild turtles and migrating whales, every moment feels effortlessly special yet deeply connected to the landscape—a rare balance no other island quite captures,” says Courtney.
A Signature Ending
After a perfect day, we call into Long Pavilion, qualia for a quiet nightcap in the sunken lounges. A final moment to unwind before calling it a night.
“A decade at Tourism Australia gave me a deep appreciation for this incredible country—its landscapes, its people, and the way we do luxury differently. There’s something uniquely Australian about that warm, friendly, barefoot luxury—where world-class experiences are wrapped in a sense of ease, authenticity, and connection to place. It’s this effortless magic that makes Australian hospitality so special”, Courtney says.
QUICK LIST: Courtney’s Must-Do’s
Best Coffee: Coffee at Hamilton Island Bakery
it’s the real deal—barista-made and strong. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the old-school Aussie treats are impossible to resist. Neenish tart or vanilla slice anyone?
Don’t Miss: Hamilton island race week.
It’s Australia’s largest offshore keelboat regatta, held every August—a spectacular mix of world-class sailing, laid-back luxury, and island energy. It’s not just about the racing; the week-long event brings an incredible lineup of onshore festivities, from exclusive dinners to beachside parties, where you might just find yourself chatting with A-listers over a sunset cocktail.
You also can’t miss: the sundays
Our newest addition—The Sundays, is opening 27th April. This boutique hotel redefines family luxury, blending adventure, world-class dining, and effortless island living.
Must-Try Dish: DIY ROASTED DUCK SPRING ROLLS
The DIY roasted duck spring rolls at coca chu are a hands-on flavour bomb—tender duck, pickled carrot noodles, pineapple, and fresh herbs, all wrapped up just the way you like. Add a splash of nahm jim jaew sauce for the perfect hit of sweet, sour, and spice.
favourite experience: cruise to hook island
Aboard the Pebble Beach vessel, cruise to Hook Island for an unmissable experience where Robbie Congoo, a proud member of the Ngaro people, shares stories alongside ancient Ngaro rock art bringing the rich history of the Whitsundays to life. Exquisite canapés featuring native Australian ingredients are served for lunch on route home.
all Images by lean timms for Hamilton Island.
