Great Barrier Reef

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At a Glance

The adults-only Beach Club Hamilton Island scores points as the sole resort backing onto Catseye Beach, but also dazzles with its exclusive five-star restaurant and 57 luxurious rooms, all of which are outfitted with terraces or balconies overlooking the Coral Sea.

Indagare Loves

• The spectacular and secluded beachfront location overlooking the Coral Sea
• Sunset cocktails in the club’s private lounge
• Waterfront dining at the Beach Club Restaurant

Review

This beachfront boutique offers an unrivalled setting: palm trees, tropical gardens and direct access to Catseye Beach, where guests can lounge on a crescent of golden sand and enjoy water activities. The Beach Club delivers a stylish and laid-back sojourn in a premium location close to nightlife, restaurants and the downtown center (although the proximity to the main road, visitor’s center and shared beach isn’t always conducive to Zen-level tranquility).

The newly refurbished premium rooms emulate a breezy beach house—a luminous space that’s cozy but not cramped, and meticulously outfitted in a contemporary coastal style. Relaxing grey, indigo and white tones enliven the décor, and lavish finishes, such as rainforest showers and freestanding stone tubs, have been installed. What haven’t changed are the unparalleled views: in every room, white plantation-style shutters open onto a private terrace or balcony facing Catseye Beach.

Although the beach is public, The Beach Club has reserved a tranquil spot exclusively for resort guests, complete with reclining chairs and shady palm trees. There is also a private adults-only infinity pool, but guests are welcome to use any of the pools located in the island’s complex. The resort is steps away from the island’s shared amenities, such as the fitness center, tennis courts and spa. A quick buggy ride leads to the marina, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Although the downtown area of Hamilton Island remains the gastronomic epicenter, the Beach Club’s acclaimed exclusive restaurant is a big draw for foodies. Guests can sup on a delectable six-course tasting menu of modern Australian cuisine and local wines by the water’s edge.

While Catseye Beach is suitable for relaxing and the tame surf is ideal for water activities, it can be pebbly in sections and not as stunning as Whitehaven Beach, which requires a day trip, but is worth the effort: stretching four miles in length, the powdery white silica sand there is among the finest in the world, and at the north end, there are stunning sandbars that swirl in the turquoise sea. The Beach Club can help arrange a day trip by ferry, catamaran, helicopter or seaplane.

Guests looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef, which is roughly a two-hour ferry ride from Hamilton Island, will need to travel to the area by boat, helicopter, or seaplane. Indagare’s Bookings Team can help arrange for daily excursions and activities.

Who Should Stay

Couples seeking a beach retreat within reach of vibrant nightlife, foodies who want to dine peacefully on couture cuisine and those who want quick and convenient access to the sea. Guests seeking generous suite space or a discreet sanctuary should check out Qualia instead. Families with children under the age of 16 will prefer the kid-friendly Reef View Resort, located across the street. www.hamiltonisland.com.au/accommodation/reef-view-hotel