The Best Whitsunday Island for Honeymoons
You would be hard pressed to find a more idyllic honeymoon destination than The Whitsundays. The archipelago of 74 stunning tropical Australian islands, nestled at the southern edge of the Great Barrier Reef, typify the term ‘tropical paradise’.
The Whitsunday Islands are what remains of an ancient mountain range which was submerged during the last ice age. As such, the islands and surrounding tropical waters have a unique geography which creates stunning vistas and a haven for world-class wildlife watching, not to mention one of the purest white sand beaches in the world. This rare natural beauty, twinned with Australian’s friendly culture and penchant for the elegant, make this one of the most exceptional places on the planet for enjoying your first days as a married couple.
Decided on The Whitsundays but not sure which island to stay on? That’s where this article comes in…
Hamilton Island
Perhaps the best known of all The Whitsunday Islands, car-free Hamilton Island offers the perfect mix for those who want to relax by the beach, indulge in world-renowned food and wine and actively explore the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the island by golf buggy or choose from over 60 exciting activities, from sailing to snorkelling and go-karting to golfing.
Hamilton Island is blessed with a plethora of luxurious resorts that are absolutely perfect for honeymooners. Firstly, Beach Club Hamilton Island is ideally located on Catseye Beach, looking out upon the azure expanse of the Coral Sea. This adult-only resort has mouth-watering gourmet dining and a range of spa treatments to choose from – ideal if you want to start your marriage with a bit of pampering.
Secondly, the Reef View Hotel, opposite the aforementioned Catseye Beach, is a resort set in equally gorgeous surrounds, boasting multiple opportunities for comfort and indulgence. Arrange a sunset Champagne cruise to really treat yourselves.
Finally, Qualia Hamilton Island is nestled in the northern tip of Hamilton Island. A decadent resort named after the Latin word meaning ‘a collection of deeper sensory experiences’. This resort certainly offers that in abundance – think unrivalled scenery, sumptuous cuisine and a tranquil spa area.
Daydream Island
Close to the Queensland coastline, Daydream Island is one of seven islands in the Molle Island Group, within The Whitsundays. This 0.6-mile island is fringed by technicolour corals, which are but a flipper-kick away, not to mention a Mecca for sailing enthusiasts and honeymooners alike.
The only place to stay on Daydream Island is the Daydream Island Resort. This property is punctuated with colourful accents and sitting areas, as well as bright, airy rooms. The hotel also has four restaurants and three casual bars which give you the chance to experience a variety of cuisines and atmospheres without having to leave this island paradise.
Hayman Island
Hayman island, flung off the coast of Hook Island, is the most northerly of all the Whitsunday Islands and the closest to the Great Barrier Reef. It is the easiest and best island to stay on if you want to visit the world-famous Heart Reef. Most importantly, the island is exclusive to guests staying at the Hayman Island Resort. Guests can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the 1.2-mile crescent-shaped white sand beach.
In fact, the Hayman Island Resort is Australia’s quintessential private island resort. It has 160 guest rooms which includes suites, villas and penthouses, in addition to a selection of restaurants and bars serving local and international cuisines. Additionally the resort has a variety of indoor and outdoor function areas for that special meal or intimate celebration on your honeymoon.
Go your own way
Finally, a great option for making the most of your stay in The Whitsundays is to discover it via the laid-back beach town of Airlie Beach. From this mainland gateway, you can participate in a multitude of day trips and incredible excursions across the archipelago, such as full-day snorkelling and diving tours, or helicopter rides over the Heart Reef.
