10 of the best Hamilton Island accommodation picks

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Cool hideouts, beachfront hotels, five-star resorts and grand holiday homes shine bright amongst the stellar selection of Hamilton Island accommodation options.

It’s hard to go wrong when booking Hamilton Island accommodation, no matter your budget. Salty beach air and glimpses of twinkling Whitsunday waters are abundant no matter which way you’re breathing the tropical holiday destination in.

Offering everything from an exclusive couples-only resort to family-friendly apartments with the convenience of a fully stocked kitchen, Hamilton Island is overflowing with staggering stays to enjoy that offer idyllic swimming pools and fantastic restaurants. Our pick of the very best awaits.

Hamilton Island Hotels & Resorts

Nothing screams holidays quite like dropping your luggage at reception and having warm, welcoming hotel staff guide you to your own personal slice of paradise for the next few days.

1. The Sundays

a beachfront room at The Sundays on Hamilton Island
The beachfront rooms offer spectacular water views. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Price: $$$$

Instagram-perfect from every angle while also welcoming children with open arms (hello, hireable prams and cots)? The Sundays is shaping up to be Hamilton Island’s ultimate family-friendly choice. Set to open its doors at the end of April 2025, the highly anticipated boutique stay will serve as the first new hotel to open on the island in more than 15 years. While interconnected rooms and school holiday programs will certainly dazzle parents, the 59-room luxury accommodation at the end of Catseye Beach also features grown-up indulgences like private cabanas dotted about a water’s edge pool, a signature bar and restaurant from restauranteur royalty Josh and Julia Niland of Sydney’s Saint Peter, and yoga classes overlooking the beach itself. The cherry on top is the fit out, a refined and masterful blend of textural beach tones and soothing sea greens.

Other inclusions: Airport transfers, transport around the island, wi-fi, beach water sports, kids’ activities and Ice Cream Happy Hour (a cone or cup per person)

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2.  Reef View Hotel

an aerial view of the Catseye Beach from Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island
Reef View Hotel offers absolute beachfront bliss. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Price: $$$

The four-star Reef View Hotel takes design cues from its beach-front location, with a pared-back coastal chic aesthetic and nautical tones of navy, white and pebble grey. If the pool at this buzzy Hamilton Island accommodation grows old, which it won’t any time soon, stroll across the road to Catseye Beach. At this place, it’s Eat, Sleep, Swim on repeat.

With every room offering a view of either the Coral Sea or tropical gardens, private balconies provide the perfect opportunity for uninterrupted paradise gazing. The hotel, which features a gym, spa and sauna, and tennis court, also allows free access to a range of sporting equipment such as catamarans, stand-up paddleboards, windsurfers, snorkel gear, and kayaks from the Hamilton Island Beach Sports hut on Catseye. There’s also a popular in-house eatery, the Pool Terrace Restaurant, and bar, the Reef Lounge, to help you unwind.

Other inclusions: Return airport or marina transfers, use of the Island Shuttle, buffet breakfast with every Suite booking, use of gym, spa, sauna and tennis court hire, access to Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay & Eat Free program and wi-fi.

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3. Palm Bungalows

the Palm Bungalows on Hamilton Island
Palm Bungalows are a tranquil oasis on the island. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Price: $$$

You’ll be forgiven for mistaking Hamilton Island for a lush south-east Asian destination at the wonderful Palm Bungalows , set in a landscaped tropical garden within walking distance from Catseye Beach. In the bedrooms, everything is warm wood and cool white while hammocks are strung on balconies to further entice city slickers to slow down.

Each bungalow comes complete with a kitchenette, microwave, bar fridge and tea and coffee-making facilities, making for luxe Hamilton Island accommodation for families. Just a touch pricier than Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows offers some of the most value-for-money digs on the island. Kangaroos are also known to drop into the property’s large front lawn, and you can casually spy them from each room’s private balcony.

Other inclusions: Return airport or marina transfers, use of Hamilton Island Beach Sport’s water sports equipment, use of the Island Shuttle, access to a gym, spa, sauna and tennis court and access to Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay & Eat Free program.

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Holiday Homes & Apartments on the Island

If you’re travelling with your tribe, locking down a self-contained, air-conditioned house, apartment, or Airbnb with loads of space is always a smart move.

4. Hamilton Island Holiday Homes

a daybed on the balcony with sea views at Hamilton Island Holiday Homes
Relax with a good book on your private balcony. (Image: Hamilton Island Holiday Homes)

Price: $$$—$$$$$

Offering all-inclusive Hamilton Island accommodation, often with your very own electric golf buggy (a must while visiting this extremely hilly, five-square-kilometre stretch of heaven), Hamilton Island Holiday Homes is just the ticket for groups and families. Serving as the Island’s main rental operator, the company boasts a portfolio of homes ranging from apartments to mega-mansions catering to more than two dozen.

Those who value privacy will appreciate that many properties take advantage of the outlook (think painted-on blue skies and sunlight that dances over the sea) without sitting right on your neighbour’s doorstep. Self-catering is easy thanks to Hamilton Island’s IGA supermarket and bottle shop, located down at the end of the marina village.

Other inclusions: Complimentary linen, bath and beach towels, access to Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay & Eat Free program, use of Hamilton Island Beach Sport’s water sport equipment and wi-fi.

5. Whitsunday Apartments

the heated spa at Whitsunday Apartments, Hamilton Island
Luxuriate in the heated spa set in tropical gardens. (Image: Whitsunday Apartments)

Price: $$$

Right off Catseye Beach is Whitsunday Apartments , an impressive collection of self-contained lodgings. Accommodating up to five guests per room, the apartments are clean and tidy with some offering sensational views over the Coral Sea. Choose from a Garden View, Sea View or Deluxe Coral Sea View room, each fitted with a private balcony and a separate bedroom to the living area. There’s also a lagoon-style swimming pool and heated spa available to guests.

Other inclusions: Use of the Island Shuttle, wi-fi, on-site laundry and a guest lounge fitted with a flat-screen TV.

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6. Hidden Cove Hamilton Island

a resort-style infinity pool and a private beach at Hidden Cove Hamilton Island
Hidden Cove features a resort-style infinity pool and a private beach.

Price: $$$$

Private group living doesn’t get much more glamorous than Hidden Cove Hamilton Island . Housing just 17 individual two-bedroom apartments, this Hamilton Island accommodation is designed so that no two spots are less than four metres away from one another. Each featuring jaw-dropping views across the Dent Passage to Dent Island, Hidden Cove features a resort-style infinity pool and a private beach. There are also wrap-around timber decks and state-of-the-art kitchens and bathrooms, giving you barely any reason to leave your apartment.

Other inclusions: Private golf buggy, tea and coffee making facilities and a private BBQ.

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Hamilton Island Luxury Accommodation

You’ve come for a taste of the good life so find a Hamilton Island accommodation option complete with million-dollar views, private pools, child-free entertainment, and world-class architecture.

7. Qualia

a private tub overlooking Whitsundays at Qualia, Hamilton Island
Take in incredible views of the Whitsundays from your private tub. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Price: $$$$$

The most luxurious resort option on Hamilton Island is qualia , which combines exceptional design flair with a contemporary clubhouse feel and five-star amenities. Half of the suites at this exclusive resort, located on the northern-most point of the Island, feature their very own ocean-facing plunge pool. The resort is split into two, the south-west facing Leeward Pavillions and the north-facing Windward Pavillions, with the latter home to those ritzy pools.

Regardless of where you’re sleeping, expect hardwood polished floors, sundecks, stone ensuite bathrooms, central heating, gourmet mini bars, a la carte breakfast daily at the exquisite on-site Long Pavilion restaurant and so much more. Level your stay up at the exclusive qualia Beach House , which offers panoramic views, a ten-person dining room, a 12-metre infinity pool, and a separate guesthouse for guests of your own. Guests must be aged 16 and over.

Other inclusions: Private golf buggy, daily breakfast, 24-hour chauffeur service around Hamilton Island, all non-alcoholic beverages, return VIP transfers to the airport or marina, use of the gym, spa, sauna and tennis court.

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8. Beach Club

a suite with a private terrace overlooking Catseye Beach, Hamilton Island
A stay at Beach Club will reward you with magnificent views of Catseye Beach.

Price: $$$$

On an island packed to the brim with families, the 5-star Beach Club is an adults-only oasis, making it popular with babymooners desperate to lap up luxury without the soundtrack of squealing children. The low-slung hotel tumbles directly down to Catseye Beach and each of the 57 rooms, sprawled across the two-storey property, feature their own private terrace or balcony. On the ground level, an infinity pool is cool in the summer and heated in the winter. Floating right off Catseye Beach, pool dips at this Hamilton Island accommodation are the envy of every passerby.

Other inclusions: Daily a la carte breakfast, TVs with surround sound in each room, wi-fi, use of Hamilton Island Beach Sports equipment, return transfers from the airport or marina, VIP point-to-point chauffeur service, tea and coffee throughout your stay.

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9. Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas

sunrise yoga sessions at Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas
Join sunrise yoga sessions at Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Price: $$$$$

The Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas offer high-rolling yachties a tranquil island escape. Located alongside the exclusive Hamilton Island Yacht Club, the high-end villas designed by architect Walter Barda offer sophisticated self-contained living with four luxurious bedrooms.

Each stay looks out over Dent Passage and towards Dent Island, spread out over three to four levels and featuring four bathrooms. Miele appliances dot the kitchen, while fully ducted heating and a private laundry provide further comfort.

Other inclusions: Use of the Yacht Club Villas pool, a welcome hamper including wine and treats, use of the Island Shuttle, up to two golf buggies, a mid-stay clean if you’re there for more than five nights, sporting equipment including catamarans, stand-up paddleboards, windsurfers and snorkel gear, access to Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay & Eat Free program, wi-fi.

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10. Hamilton Island Luxury Homes

sunset views from the private infinity pool of Trisara, Hamilton Island Luxury Homes
Trisara redefines island luxury with its private infinity pool. (Image: Hamilton Island Luxury Homes)

Price: $$$$$

Some of the most exclusive homes on Hamilton Island are now available for rent. For those seeking barefoot luxury, check out Hamilton Island Luxury Homes , which features exclusive, rentable real estate with a range of high-end amenities. The portfolio of multi-million-dollar homes includes the Glasshouse , located on the highly sought-after Melaleuca Drive, housing up to 16 guests, the Pavillions Penthouse , which sleeps up to 10 guests and occupies prime real estate during Hamilton Island Race Week, plus Trisara , a four-bedroom stunner that sleeps up to 10 people and throws up some of the most spectacular sunsets on the island.

Other inclusions: Golf buggies, open-plan living and dining areas and just general bragging rights.

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Discover the best things to do on Hamilton Island

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach
Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter
Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa
Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter
Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter
Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.