Hamilton Island has a range of transport options, including golf buggies, private vehicles and compliant privately owned e-bikes. The information below outlines the requirements for using private vehicles and e-bikes on the island, as well as important safety information for buggy owners.
To preserve a tranquil and relaxing environment for our guests and residents, the number vehicles on Hamitlon Island is controlled.
Only HIE-approved vehicles are permitted on the island.
Motorcycles, mopeds and motorised scooters are not permitted.
All vehicle ownership must be in accordance with the Vehicle Ownership Guidelines, available below. The Guidelines detail the process for the purchase/registration and transfer of ownership of a vehicle for use on Hamilton Island.
The Guidelines also contain the relevant application forms for property owners to transfer buggy ownership or apply for new buggy ownership, as well as for registered business and contractors to apply for a buggy.
The requirements and details of how and when a vehicle is permitted on island are found in the Hamilton Island Vehicle Ownership Guidelines:
Vehicle Ownership Guidelines
Important Buggy Information for Owners
Queensland Department of Transport and Island road rules apply to all buggies, which must be registered with Queensland Transport and HIE.
Buggy owners are responsible for maintaining up-to-date registration for their vehicle.
Privately-owned buggies can be driven by those with any class of licence, including Learner drivers if accompanied by a holder of an open driver licence, with L plates displayed (i.e. normal Queensland road rules apply).
Please note: Drivers of buggies hired from Hamilton Island Buggy Hire must be a minimum of 21 years old, hold a current driver license, and are fully liable for any damages that are deemed above wear and tear.
E-Bikes
Privately owned e-bikes are permitted on Hamilton Island under the Hamilton Island Rules and Regulations, provided they comply with the Queensland Road Rules and Hamilton Island Road Rules.
The information below applies only to privately owned e-bikes brought to Hamilton Island. It does not apply to HI Trails hire e-mountain bikes, which are available for use only on approved Hamilton Island mountain bike trails and are not permitted on island roads. For more information, including the applicable Terms and Conditions of Use, visit our HI Mountain Biking page here.
Queensland e-bike laws introduced on 1 July 2026, together with the additional requirements commencing on 31 August 2026, apply to all compliant e-bikes used on Hamilton Island.
Before bringing an e-bike to the island, please ensure it complies with Queensland legislation by visiting the Queensland Government's Electric Bicycle Rules here.
If you're unsure whether your e-bike is compliant, please contact the Island Security Department, who can help confirm whether your e-bike meets the requirements.
Key reminders
Your e-bike must:
- Have a maximum continuous motor output of 250 watts (or be a compliant 200-watt electric bicycle).
- Be pedal-assisted and cut motor assistance at 25 km/h.
- Only have throttle assistance up to 6 km/h.
- Meet the required Queensland compliance standards
When riding on Hamilton Island, you must:
- Wear an approved bicycle helmet.
- Obey Queensland Road Rules, Hamilton Island Road Rules and all posted speed limits.
- Use lights when riding at night.
From 31 August 2026, riders must also:
- Be 16 years or older.
- Hold a valid driver licence
Please remember that bicycle riders are subject to the same road rules and penalties as motorists.
Queensland Police Service and the Island Security Department will be actively enforcing these requirements to help keep our roads safe.
Ride safely, ride legally, and help keep Hamilton Island's roads safe for everyone.
How to Contact Us
If you are a property owner, resident, concessionaire, or contractor, and have questions about buggies and private vehicles, please contact the Vehicle Coordinator: