Hamilton Island is the gateway to the stunning Whitsundays and a certified bucket list destination for golfers. Golf enthusiasts from all over the globe make an exciting beeline day after day to play this picturesque course. Lauded for its clever design and the meticulously manicured fairways that elegantly traverse mountainous terrain, the Hamilton Island Golf Course boasts magnificent views of the surrounding Coral Sea. Is it challenging? Yes. Is it an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience? You bet. 

Play 

Enjoying a round at Hamilton Island Golf Course is an unforgettable experience for many reasons. For starts, it’s the only championship course on its own island in Australia. The 18-hole, par 71 was designed by legendary Australian golfer, Peter Thompson, and sits in pride of place on Dent Island (a short boat ride from Hamilton Island). Varied course elevation, restricted landing areas and frequent sea breezes mean the course has a trickier approach from the back tees and is much more predictable from the forward marks. In saying that, this course was designed to challenge golfers of all abilities, from the novice player through to the experienced. Singling out a favourite hole was impossible – such is the allure of the entire course. NB: the majority of players I oh so casually surveyed (on the return ferry) rated the 13^th – 18^th  as being particularly impressive.  

• The course layout works with the natural landform - with generally broad fairways taking the line of least resistance.
• There are two distinctly different 9-hole circuits - both of which return to the central clubhouse. 
• The 13^th hole (par 4) has incredible 360-degree island views from the plateau fairway.
• Note the dense vegetation that surrounds Hole 2. It’s a great indication of what to expect if you stray off the fairways ahead. 
• Transfer to the golf course is by ferry or helicopter only. 

Pricing 

Return ferry transfers and motorised 2-seater buggy are included in the cost of your round and the dress code is smart casual. 

Stay

The ultra-exclusive qualia is the island's premium resort offering where hedge-lined pathways discreetly lead to inviting suites, poolside enclaves, and the sun-dappled foreshore of the ultra-private Pebble Beach. 

The sun-filled Leeward Pavilions are meticulously appointed suites featuring a generous living space, a stately freestanding bathtub, a minibar stocked with a mix of organic and artisanal treats and all the bells and whistles one would expect from an esteemed laid-back luxury resort such as this. Windward Pavilions share the same design pleasures as their Leeward friends but with the cherished addition of a private plunge pool. 

Do not miss qualia’s unique ‘Talk and Taste’ experiences led by their onsite sommelier. The Sake and Sashimi spread is an intimate event structured to dazzle your tastebuds with slivers of red emperor, salmon and gold band snapper whilst expanding your knowledge of Japan’s fascinating rice wine production process. Other options include dedicated tastings of ‘Champagne and Oysters’ and ‘Wine and Cheese’. Perfect!  

Oh, and Spa qualia is the epitome of a holistic healing sanctuary with a treatment menu bound to tempt you.

Note: all guests have a buggy for use during their stay at qualia and a private car transfer is available to take you to the marina to meet the boat transfer (10 minutes) across to the Hamilton Island Golf Club. 

Dining

The clubhouse at the Hamilton Island Golf Course consistently serves up spectacular five-star fare and to be frank, you’d be mad to miss a pre or post-round meal here. Perched high on Dent Island the clubhouse boasts incredible views of the surrounding Whitsundays Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. 

Other dining venues on Hamilton Island that we loved are Coco Chu for a mix of Asian-inspired dishes, Romano’s, our go-to for a classic Italian feast and the fabulous Bommie restaurant located in the yacht club. 

Meanwhile, your ‘home away from home’ at qualia features the delectable Pebble Beach restaurant or a more casual yet no less glamourous pool bar dining menu. 

Hamilton Island Activities 

Since you won’t be golfing 24-7 while you’re there, we thought we’d share a few other Hamilton Island activity ideas. Fitness-conscious friends will like hiking one of Hamilton Islands' many walking trails (some are gentle and some require a bit of sweat), sunset yoga sessions and/or a relaxing turtle snorkel tour.  

A half-day trip to the outer Great Barrier Reef is an exhilarating way to see one of the seven wonders of the natural world and the offshore fishing charters or guided jet ski adventures will definitely up the holiday action-ante.