Here’s all the down-to-earth advice you need for preparing for your visit to Hamilton Island: what to pack, confirmation requirements, arrival details, check-in and bookings on the island. 

Confirming your booking

Airport and Marina transfers are included in your accommodation booking. Be sure to let us know your travel details, so we can be there to greet you on your arrival and transport you to your accommodation. Let us know whether you are travelling by air or ferry, and your scheduled time of arrival.

Airport arrival

When you arrive at Hamilton Island, you’ll be welcomed by a complimentary transfer to your accommodation. Hamilton Island’s transfer staff will be waiting for you outside the airport’s baggage collection area. If you’ve booked a holiday home on Hamilton Island, make your way to the check-in desk to receive the keys to your house and buggy.

Ferry arrival

Fantasea ferries from the mainland arrive and depart from the Marina, in the heart of the Marina Village. The direct trip from Shute Harbour takes just 30 minutes. Excursion ferries also sail from the Marina for relaxing day trips to other Whitsunday Islands.

Accommodation check-in

Accommodation check-in time is 2pm. If you arrive earlier, it’s a good idea to pack a day bag with your swimming costume, sunscreen, a hat and perhaps a change of clothes, just in case your room isn’t ready. The Reef View Hotel has lockers, change rooms and shower facilities. You will be contacted when your room is ready, so head to the pool and get your holiday started.

What to pack

Think seaside and outdoors when packing your bags for a Hamilton Island holiday. Swimwear is the most important item of clothing for many holidaymakers, and don’t forget to pack a sunhat, sunscreen, sandals and comfortable walking shoes. Towels are provided by your accommodation.

Late-afternoon breezes can make even tropical evenings cool, so dressing in layers is a good idea. Bring long-sleeved tops or shirts, and a lightweight jacket or cardigan.

Also remember to bring special sporting equipment such as golf clubs, your medical certificate if you are thinking of learning to scuba dive, and your Dive Certificate if more advanced diving is on your holiday agenda.

If you’re travelling with children, you’ll be pleased to know that cots and highchairs are provided free of charge – just let us know your requirements when you’re booking accommodation. You can hire strollers, books and toys through the Clownfish Club.

Weather

Sharing the same tropical latitudes as Honolulu and Mauritius, Hamilton Island is balmy year-round with temperatures averaging a warm 27°C (81°F). In summer, maximum temperatures reach the low 30s from November to February. Even in the winter months of June to August, temperatures remain warm in the low 20s. The wettest months are December to March.

The following average maximum and minimum temperatures were collected by the Bureau of Meteorology:

Booking activities & restaurants

Don’t run the risk of missing out on your favourite activity or dining experience on Hamilton Island. Make the call and book ahead, to put your holiday plans in place.

• To book tours or activities on Hamilton Island, call the Tour Desk on +61 (0)7 4946 8305.
• To make a restaurant booking, ring the call centre on +61 (0)7 4946 9999 and ask to be put through to the restaurant of your choice.
• To book babysitting or reserve a session for your child in the Clownfish Club, call +61 (0)7 4946 8941.