Escape to Hamilton Island

Where to? Hamilton Island, Australia

Why you’ll love it: If all you really want out of a holiday is sheer relaxation, then you will be in good hands. A privately owned island off the coast of Queensland, Hamilton Island has a little bit of everything — snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing and swimming.

Not only is the island right off the Great Barrier Reef, it’s also in the heart of the 70-island Whitsunday archipelago which means untouched beaches and private escapes are near at hand. On the main island, travelers have several choices when it comes to where to stay, including all-out luxury at qualia, boutique surrounds at Beach Club and a variety of rental homes up for grabs too.

Fun fact: Whitehaven Beach, one of the world’s most pristine beaches, is about a 1.5-hour boat ride away.  

Get there: Daily flights on Qantas via Brisbane, Jetstar via Sydney, and Virgin via Sydney will get you there.

Click here to return to The Loop’s 30 Days of Travel Inspiration series.