There is something magical in the air on Hamilton Island…

I have been visiting since the doors were first thrown open on this unique Australian destination; over the years Hamilton Island has gone from strength to strength. When Qualia opened in 2007 the fate of this stunning Whitsunday Island was sealed – Hamilton Island is truly world class. No matter how many times I visit the gloss never dims…

Now I am a Mum I have discovered that Hamilton Island is a fantastic holiday with ‘older kids’.

That you can hop on a mid-morning plane from Sydney (or Melbourne and Brisbane); and arrive in the vicinity of lunchtime makes it a brilliant option for all kinds of holidays. Holidays with kids (big & little), romantic getaways, short breaks, and special occasions (a popular spot to get married).

A vast array of accommodation options to suit most budgets; apartment style, hotel all inclusive, private homes, and adults only Beach Club. And the scenery – oh now that has to be seen to be believed…

Some detractors might mention that the island is built up and commercial – a thorn amongst the National Parks of the 74 Whitsunday Islands. Yes the resort is populated – but hey it is fun, and the vibe is tropical, and the restaurants are yum, and the water is gorgeous…isn’t that what holidays are about…

Our family loves it; there are 100’s of activities for kids – and so many opportunities for parents to relax.

Here is a snapshot of our last visit – where the kids enjoyed non-stop action; then collapsed by the pool so I could sit with a drink and look at the view!

On this occasion we stayed on the mainland and travelled with Cruise Whitsundays from the Port of Airlie (trip takes about 1 hour) – the route takes you via Daydream Island and through the Whitsunday Passage, so it is a lovely scenic trip.

When you arrive via boat you enter through the picturesque Hamilton Island harbour; activities can be booked in the Tours office and there are plenty of places to eat.

5 FANTASTIC ACTIVITIES TO KEEP TWEENS BUSY ON HAMILTON ISLAND

HAMILTON ISLAND GOLF BUGGY HIRE

Regardless of your length of stay, no trip to the island is complete without hiring a golf buggy to get around. You can pre-book (recommended), or take a chance at the buggy depot on the resort side.

4 seater Buggy Hire – 8.30am to 4.30pm – $72 – details here

HAMILTON ISLAND AIR HELICOPTER FLIGHT

Yes it was an extravagant activity – but what an experience. The Youngest had been looking longingly at these gorgeous mechanical birds for several years during previous visits – this time his dream came true and off we soared for a scenic flight. In a word – spectacular…

Scenic Flight – $125 per person (2 passenger minimum) – third person $69 – details here.

WILD LIFE HAMILTON (formally Hamilton Wildlife park)

After the adrenalin in the helicopter it was time to hit the ground, cuddle a cute Koala and stare into the jaws of one of nature’s beasts (no it wasn’t the 12 year old…).

Admission cost – ADULT $20 & CHILD $14 – brilliant value because general admission is valid for your entire stay on the Island, details here.

GO KART RACING & QUAD BIKES FOR KIDS

Big tip: try and book these activities at the beginning of the day because they are popular and fill up fast; we were first Go Karts ‘off the rank’ and the boys virtually had the course to themselves  (there is not much shade either so a better activity for the morning).  Same applies to the Quad Bikes – situated next to the Go Carts for easy access. Details here.  Cost Go Karts –  $47 per person for 10 minutes – it seems a short time until you are on the track, the boys had enough after this.  Quad Bikes –  $32 for 30 minutes (15 minutes briefing and 15 minutes riding)

BEACH AND POOL HAMILTON ISLAND RESORT SIDE

The day warmed up beautifully and the tide was high; time to hit the beach and main Resort pool.  Lunch, a cool drink, and a float in perfect temperatures.

Bliss…simply why Hamilton Island is a fantastic holiday with ‘older kids’

**  The Urban Mum, kids (and Grandma) were generously hosted boat transfers by Cruise Whitsundays – our departure was from the gorgeous new terminal facilities at Port of Airlie. All other expenses/activities were paid for by The Urban Mum.