Great Barrier Reef

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At a Glance

Nestled on the northernmost (and most distant) tip of Hamilton Island, Qualia offers world-class pampering amidst a lavish tropical hideaway.

Indagare Loves

• Relaxing and refreshing treatments available at the award-winning spa
• Luxury waterfront pavilions that offer views of either tropical bush land or the Whitsundays
• Taking a dip in one of the property’s infinity pools

Review

Shrouded by 30 acres of eucalyptus trees and lush tropical greenery, Qualia draws inspiration from the natural island surroundings. Its name, in fact, means “a collection of deeper sensory experiences” in Latin. The resort’s giant wooden entry gates open onto a tranquil estate filled with foliage and sweeping views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. Of course, privacy has a price: the resort is not as centrally located as The Beach Club, however there are complimentary golf buggies and car service that will chauffeur guests around the island, as well as personal drop off to select local beaches.

Despite its wild roots, Qualia delivers all the opulent fixings with no comforts spared. Scattered across the property are 60 spacious pavilions, each built from timber and stone and outfitted with elegant furnishings and fabrics inspired by nature. The one-bedroom Windward Pavilions are particularly impressive, boasting open-air lounges, infinity plunge pools and sprawling sun decks that overlook the turquoise sea.

While the downtown marina remains the gastronomic epicenter, some guests opt to dine exclusively at Qualia’s two on-site restaurants, which serve tantalizing Australian cuisine. Perched high above the ocean, the award-winning Spa Qualia offers a yoga pavilion and indigenous-inspired treatments, such as the “Bularri Yarrul,” a soothing hot stone massage using 300 million year old rocks.

The resort has a small private beach with a crest of soft golden sand with gorgeous views. However, those looking for an unforgettable beach experience should explore Whitehaven Beach, where the powdery white silica sand is among the finest in the world and, at the north end, there are stunning sandbars that swirl in the turquoise sea. Qualia’s concierge can organize a day trip by boat, helicopter or seaplane to Whitehaven, complete with a champagne picnic lunch (additional cost).

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef requires travel by boat, helicopter or seaplane to explore the area (it is located roughly two hours by ferry from Hamilton Island). Qualia offers signature experiences exclusively for guests seeking an intimate Great Barrier encounter, including a private charter cruise to spend the day snorkeling over coral gardens and diving with tropical fish. Guests may also book a personal beach drop-off at tranquil Henning Island to snorkel around the large coral fringing reef and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch. Indagare’s Bookings Team can help arrange for daily excursions and activities. Guests who wish to stay on property can explore the inner fringing reef and the waters closer to Hamilton Island. The hotel offers jetski, catamaran and kayak rentals, and can arrange for sailboat charters for day trips to secluded beaches nearby.

Who Should Stay

Couples seeking a romantic hideaway. Qualia is adults-only, so families with teenagers should try The Beach Club and those with little kids will enjoy the family-friendly Reef View Resort. Guests seeking chic and central accommodations should also consider The Beach Club, which backs onto Catseye Beach and is a 10-minute walk to the marina.