My tropical mini-break to Hamilton Island

You know those moments when all that there is, is the now? Where everything around you feels like background noise, so you just focus on the moment you are in and all at once you feel alive. When I first landed at the Whitsundays I experienced a moment like this. 

Let's go back to the start, shall we?

We had planned to explore the Sunshine Coast but it wasn’t offering too much of what it's best known for... sunshine. So, off we went. Headed north and Airlie Beach was going to be our base for some last minute adventures around the Whitsundays. However, after a few emails and Google searches, it just so happened that I came across a spare hotel room in an even better base. A base with the name of Hamilton Island!

The view from our hotel room at the Reef View Hotel.

 
Little did I known when I flew over the Whitsundays at the start of this trip, that I would soon find myself floating in those exact blue waters that I had been so mesmerised by from the airplane window. 

Flying over the Whitsundays.

Feeling like the luckiest girl alive I arrived at Hamilton Island and the following couple of days turned into one of my most memorable travel experiences of 2016. 

Looking out to the Coral Sea on Catseye Beach.

On Hamilton Island, morning runs are passé. Here, one sails. Yes, that's right. Our hotel Reef View offered complimentary use of catamarans at Catseye Beach just a short stroll away. We also went snorkelling and diving at the Great Barrier Reef to see this incredible natural wonder in person.

The stunning blues of the Great Barrier Reef.

Here, I got to swim with a beautiful green turtle and watched as it snacked on seaweed and other delicacies the ocean had to offer.

A turtle swimming at the Great Barrier Reef.

Back on land, our time was spent lounging beneath palm trees. When sunset arrived, we would make our way to one of the handful of restaurants and bars plotted across the island.

Palm trees and an ocean breeze at Hamilton Island,

These were great and kept my vegan heart replete and happy. I highly recommend Romano's (Italian), coca chu (Asian) and TAKO (you guessed it, Mexican) if you visit the island.
 
Overall, life is simple on Hamilton Island. The landscape paints a picture of serenity and splendor. If you make your way there, bring some good company, a book or two, and a camera. Do this and I promise you'll fit right in and have a wonderful time.

The heart of the Great Barrier Reef.