Here's our guide to hiking and bushwalking on Hamilton Island.

Hamilton Island is one of the few Whitsunday Islands that isn't part of the National Park, but it's every bit as beautiful. You can forget that you are on a populated resort island so easily on one of the many walks, and the views are to die for!

You can pick up a free copy of the Hamilton Island walking map at the tour desk on the island.

Resort Lookout

An excellent introduction to the island, through typical Whitsunday bushland. Starts at the Scenic Trail entrance (near the eastern end of the Whitsunday Apartments). This lookout is the second highest point on the island and drops off to sheer cliff faces, with a stunning, panoramic view of the main resort area, marina village and surrounding islands.

Passage Peak

Starting on the Scenic Trail and connecting with the Saddle Trail, this is a spectacular but challenging walk. Half way through you can climb to the Hill Top Viewing Area, where you’ll find a picnic table to relax and enjoy stunning views to the north and south. Once you’ve negotiated the final steep climb to Passage Peak, the reward is an awe-inspiring view of the Whitsundays from the highest vantage point.

South East Head Trail

From the Palm Valley entrance (1750m from the resort via road), dense bush gives way to exposed rocky features and sharp cliffs. You’ll see abundant native grasstrees and stunning views of the Lindeman group of islands. At the end of this walk, if you’re a more experienced hiker, you can cut overland down to the Valley Trail and Escape Beach for your return leg.

Escape Beach Trail

A trail from Saddle Junction takes you to Escape Beach where clear waters lap onto a sandy beach protected by huge rocky outcrops. This creates a secluded and charming retreat. Stop in Mangrove Flat on your way down the trail and experience a healthy mangrove ecosystem with a wide variety of birds and other marine life. Then continue on to Escape Beach. If you’re an experienced hiker and the tide is low, make the trip a circuit by walking around the rocky point at the eastern end of the beach. This leads up to the Valley Trail, which follows a creek up to Turkey Nest Junction. (Please note that the circuit return trail is currently closed. Only attempt this at LOW TIDE. Please refer to the Tour Desk daily for tide times).

Coral Cove

Starting from the Palm Valley entrance, a short steep climb takes you up to the turn-off leading down to Coral Cove on the right, or up to the Resort Lookout on the left. Coral Cove is a peaceful, relaxing beach with views south to Lindeman Island.

If you're keen to book your holiday of a lifetime, then take a look at the great accommodation options on Hamilton Island.