Did you know that Hayman Island’s iconic pool is seven times the size of an Olympic swimming pool? As the northernmost island in the Whitsundays, this 400-hectare private paradise offers an exclusive retreat with just one luxury resort amid the spectacular Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re seeking adventure on crystal-clear waters or relaxation in tropical surroundings, Hayman Island delivers unforgettable experiences in one of Australia’s most pristine locations.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching this exclusive island paradise requires a bit of planning, but the journey is part of the experience. There are no direct flights to Hayman Island, so you’ll need to first make your way to either Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach.
Flight Options
Major airlines including Qantas and Virgin Australia offer regular flights to Hamilton Island Airport from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast. This is the recommended arrival point as it’s closer to Hayman Island.
Ready to Book Your Flight?
Find the best deals on flights to Hamilton Island or Proserpine (Airlie Beach) to begin your Hayman Island adventure.
Island Transfers
Once you’ve arrived at Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach, you’ll need to arrange a transfer to Hayman Island. The InterContinental Resort manages all transfers, which must be booked in advance.
Luxury Launch (Boat Transfer)
The most common way to reach Hayman Island is via the resort’s luxury catamaran. From Hamilton Island, the journey takes approximately 60 minutes and costs AUD $210 per adult one way. The experience includes complimentary refreshments and spectacular views of the Whitsundays.
Helicopter Transfer
For a truly memorable arrival, helicopter transfers are available from Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach. Prices start from AUD $700 each way for two guests. This option not only saves time but offers breathtaking aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef.
Need a Rental Car at Your Departure Point?
If you’re flying into Airlie Beach (Proserpine Airport), you might want to arrange a rental car for the drive to the marina.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Hayman Island enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but certain periods offer better conditions for your visit.
Peak Season (August to December)
This is considered the ideal time to visit Hayman Island. The weather is consistently warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 23-30°C (73-86°F). Water visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving, and you’ll avoid both the rainy season and stinger season.
September is often considered the perfect month to visit, offering beautiful weather outside of school holiday periods when the resort is less crowded.
Shoulder Season (April to June)
Another excellent time to visit with pleasant temperatures around 20-27°C (68-81°F) and lower humidity. You’ll find fewer crowds and potentially better rates during this period.
Summer/Wet Season (December to March)
While still beautiful, this period brings higher humidity, occasional tropical rain, and higher temperatures of 25-33°C (77-91°F). It’s also stinger season, when box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in the waters.
Weather Tip: Regardless of when you visit, pack sun protection including reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and light, breathable clothing. The tropical sun is intense year-round.
Getting Around Locally
Hayman Island is relatively small at just 400 hectares, making it easy to navigate. Most of your time will likely be spent within the resort area, but there are several ways to explore the island.
Walking
The most common way to get around is on foot. The resort is designed for easy walking between accommodations, restaurants, pools, and the main beach. For those staying in the Beach or Pool wings, most amenities are just minutes away.
Golf Buggies
The resort staff use golf buggies to transport guests and luggage upon arrival and departure. For guests with mobility issues, buggies can be arranged for transportation around the resort.
Hiking Trails
A network of hiking trails spans the island, covering approximately 7.8 km in total. These range from easy walks to more challenging hikes that lead to secluded beaches and spectacular viewpoints. Trail maps are available from the activities desk.
Island Tip: Wear appropriate footwear for hiking trails, especially if venturing to Blue Pearl Bay or attempting the Sunset Peak hike. The terrain can be rocky and steep in places.
Where to Stay
Hayman Island is home to just one resort – the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, which underwent a $135 million renovation after Cyclone Debbie in 2017. The resort features 168 rooms, suites, and villas spread across three distinct wings.
Beach Wing
Perfect for those seeking beachfront luxury and privacy. Options include standard rooms with garden views, Retreat Rooms with private courtyards, and exclusive Beachfront Pool Villas with direct beach access and private plunge pools.
Best for: Couples seeking privacy and direct beach access
Pool Wing
Centered around the iconic Hayman Pool (seven times the size of an Olympic pool). Accommodations include Pool Access Suites where you can swim directly from your terrace, and Pool Ocean View Suites offering stunning vistas.
Best for: Couples and honeymooners (note: Pool Access Suites are only available for guests 12 years and older)
Lagoon Wing
Features rooms and suites overlooking the Lagoon and Coral Sea. Options range from standard Lagoon Rooms to spacious multi-bedroom Hayman Suites, ideal for families and groups.
Best for: Families with children, with easy access to the family-friendly infinity pool
Hayman Residences
For the ultimate luxury experience, the island also offers a limited number of private Hayman Residences. These exclusive four-bedroom houses perched on the hillside offer spectacular views, private pools, and full kitchen facilities.
Find Your Perfect Island Accommodation
Book your stay at the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort and begin planning your luxury island escape.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Hayman Island offers diverse dining options across five restaurants and bars, each with its own distinctive style and cuisine. Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
Pacific
The resort’s main restaurant serves a complimentary breakfast buffet that’s widely regarded as exceptional. In the evening, it transforms to offer modern Australian cuisine with ocean views.
Meal times: Breakfast and dinner
Specialty: Seafood and locally-sourced produce
Amici Trattoria
A favorite among guests, this Italian restaurant serves authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed setting. The wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes are particularly popular.
Meal times: Dinner only
Specialty: Wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta
Bam Bam
Located near the Infinity Pool, this pan-Asian restaurant offers a vibrant menu of dishes inspired by Thai, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines.
Meal times: Lunch and dinner
Specialty: Asian-inspired seafood and sharing plates
Casual Dining & Bars
Aqua Café & Pool Bar
Enjoy casual poolside dining with a menu of light meals, snacks, and refreshing cocktails delivered directly to your sun lounger. The fish tacos and signature cocktails come highly recommended.
Meal times: Lunch and all-day drinks
Grove Boutique & Café
A combination of retail shop and café offering sandwiches, cakes, coffee, and basic groceries. It’s also where you can purchase wine and beer to take back to your room or for a beach picnic.
Opening hours: Variable throughout the day
Private Dining Experiences
For special occasions, the resort offers private dining experiences in various locations around the island. Options include beachfront dinners, poolside cabanas, or even on your own private terrace. These experiences should be booked well in advance.
Dining Tip: Make dinner reservations before arriving on the island to secure your preferred restaurants and times, especially during peak season. You can book through the resort directly or via the OpenTable app.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Hayman Island offers a wealth of activities and experiences, from relaxation to adventure. The resort’s dedicated activities team can help you plan and book all experiences during your stay.
Water Activities
Snorkeling Escapades
Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. The resort offers guided snorkeling trips to nearby locations like Blue Pearl Bay, known for its colorful coral bommies and diverse marine life. Equipment and stinger suits (during stinger season) are provided.
Cost: From AUD $90 per person
Non-Motorized Water Sports
Complimentary activities available at the main beach include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and catamaran sailing. The activities team provides equipment and basic instruction for all skill levels.
Cost: Complimentary
Island Experiences
Sunset Peak Hike
A guided hike to one of the island’s highest points for spectacular sunset views across the Whitsundays. This moderately challenging hike requires reasonable fitness and appropriate footwear.
Cost: AUD $25 per person
Blue Pearl Bay Hike
A 5.4km return hike leading to a secluded beach with excellent snorkeling opportunities. Best done early morning to avoid the midday heat. The trail offers stunning views throughout.
Cost: Free (self-guided)
Nature & Nocturnal Tours
Join guided walks to spot local wildlife including Proserpine Rock Wallabies, cockatoos, and kookaburras. The nocturnal tour offers a chance to see the island’s wildlife after dark.
Cost: From AUD $10-25 per person
Great Barrier Reef Experiences
The resort offers various excursions to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef:
- Helicopter tours over Heart Reef with optional landing on the Outer Reef pontoon
- Boat trips to the iconic Whitehaven Beach with its pure silica sand
- Private sunset picnics on nearby islands or sandbars
- Guided fishing charters in the rich waters of the Whitsundays
Explore Hayman Island Activities
Book unforgettable experiences and tours to make the most of your Hayman Island vacation.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the standard resort activities, Hayman Island offers numerous options for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Fitness & Recreation
Resort Fitness Center
The resort features a well-equipped fitness center with cardio machines, weights, and spectacular views. Personal training sessions can be arranged through the activities desk.
Cost: Complimentary access for resort guests
Tennis & Sports
The recreation center offers tennis courts, squash courts, basketball, croquet, and more. Tennis lessons with a professional coach are available for an additional fee.
Cost: Court access is complimentary; lessons from AUD $90
Wellness Activities
Yoga & Meditation
Join daily yoga and meditation classes held in scenic locations around the resort. Both Vinyasa and Yin yoga styles are offered to suit different preferences and experience levels.
Cost: AUD $30 per person
Golf Simulator
Perfect your swing at the state-of-the-art indoor golf simulator. The technology measures ball direction, speed, spin, and launch angle in three dimensions for a realistic golfing experience.
Cost: AUD $45 per hour
Natural Experiences
Low Tide Exploration
During low tide, the main beach reveals an extended shoreline where you can discover coral fragments, sea urchins, and shells. Guided Sand Flats Tours are available to learn about the marine ecosystem.
Cost: AUD $15 per person for guided tour
Fish Feeding
Join the daily fish feeding at the marina pontoon at 10:30am. Watch giant trevally and groupers leap from the water to catch food. This activity is particularly popular with children.
Cost: Complimentary
Beach Relaxation
Sometimes the best activity is simply relaxing on the beach with a good book. The main beach offers comfortable loungers, and Coconut Grove Beach provides an adults-only option for a quieter experience.
Cost: Complimentary
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
While Hayman Island offers a safe and controlled environment, there are some important considerations to ensure your stay is enjoyable and respectful.
Safety Considerations
Marine Safety
During stinger season (November to May), box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in the waters. Always wear the provided stinger suits when swimming or snorkeling during this time. Follow staff instructions regarding safe swimming areas.
Sun Protection
The tropical sun is intense year-round. Apply reef-safe sunscreen regularly, wear a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day (10am-2pm). Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle, which can be refilled at stations around the resort.
Environmental Etiquette
Reef Conservation
The Great Barrier Reef is a protected marine park. Never touch or stand on coral, avoid disturbing marine life, and use only reef-safe sunscreen. The resort has banned single-use plastics and provides reusable water bottles to guests.
Wildlife Awareness
Keep doors and balconies closed when not in your room to prevent cockatoos and other wildlife from entering. Do not feed wild animals around the resort, as this can harm their natural behaviors and health.
Resort Etiquette
- Dress code is resort casual during the day. Some restaurants require smart casual attire for dinner.
- Pre-book dining and activities where possible to avoid disappointment.
- Respect quiet hours, particularly in accommodation areas.
- Tipping is not expected in Australia but is appreciated for exceptional service.
Important: When hiking, always inform someone of your plans, carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and stick to marked trails. Mobile phone coverage can be limited in some parts of the island.
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Hayman Island experience with these helpful insider tips.
Packing Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen and after-sun care
- Insect repellent for evening activities
- Multiple swimwear options (they take time to dry)
- Light, breathable clothing for the tropical climate
- Sturdy walking shoes for hiking trails
- Smart casual outfits for evening dining
Money Matters
- All major credit cards are accepted at the resort
- Room charges can be set up for convenience
- There are no ATMs on the island
- Budget for activities – costs can add up quickly
- Consider pre-purchasing activity packages
- Check if your stay includes any resort credits
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort
- Mobile reception can be patchy in some areas
- Download maps and information before arrival
- Consider a digital detox – embrace the isolation!
- Bring portable chargers for day trips
- International adapters are available on request
Making the Most of Your Stay
Timing Your Visit
If possible, avoid Australian school holidays when the resort is busiest. For the most peaceful experience, visit during shoulder season (April-June) or in September when the weather is perfect but crowds are smaller.
A stay of 4-6 nights is ideal to fully experience the island without feeling rushed. This gives you time for relaxation as well as activities.
Advance Planning
Book dinner reservations, spa treatments, and popular activities before arrival. The most desirable times fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Consider scheduling at least one special experience, such as a helicopter tour or private dining event, to make your stay truly memorable.
“The early morning and late afternoon offer the most magical light for photography and the most comfortable temperatures for activities. Plan accordingly to make the most of these golden hours.”
Your Perfect Hayman Island Getaway Awaits
Hayman Island offers a rare combination of natural beauty, luxury accommodation, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re seeking adventure through hiking and water sports, relaxation on pristine beaches, or culinary delights at world-class restaurants, this private island paradise delivers on all fronts.
From the moment you step onto the luxury launch for your transfer to the island until your reluctant departure, you’ll be immersed in an experience that showcases the best of Queensland’s tropical splendor. With careful planning using the tips in this guide, your Hayman Island getaway is sure to create memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to Experience Hayman Island?
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The above is subject to change.
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