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Course Reviews · Queensland

Hamilton Island Golf Club – a golf bucket list must  

By Inside Golf on August 17, 2023

By Ann McAllister

If you’re in a window seat, you get your first hint of wonder and anticipation as the flight swoops down over Dent Island and Hamilton Island Golf Club in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

The scenery is spectacular and Dent Island is a fantastic setting for a golf course. Fairways are strung along ridges and steep valleys and even from the air, you can see the thrilling changes in elevation, the dense bushland, secluded coves and beaches, and the adjacent passages of the Whitsunday islands and coral reefs. 

Designed by legendary Australian Peter Thomson, the 18-hole, par-71 is a 10-minute ferry ride from neighbouring Hamilton Island – and is part of a private 100 per cent Australian-owned island resort. The course has hosted eight PGA Club Championships. 

GOLF: The Hamilton Island Golf Club course is suitable for all levels of golfer – from keen amateurs to experienced professionals. There are two distinctly different nine-hole circuits – both of which return to the central clubhouse. The course layout works with the natural landform – with generally broad fairways taking the line of least resistance. The fairways are literally carved out of the rugged landscape. 

The conventional outward holes of the front nine have a more compact layout and are in a series of valleys. If it’s windy the front nine is more protected. The back nine are strung along the ridges to the south and the 13th is the highest at the top of the island. From the 11th, you can see the passage to Whitsunday Island, Hook and Hayman islands and South Molle – with Daydream in behind. To the south, you can see Lindeman Island.

It is a tough course. For those willing to take the challenge, you can expect wicked winds, impenetrable bushland and restricted landing areas. As soon as you’re off the fairways, you are immediately into the native areas of the national park and surrounded by Hoop Pine, Pandanus, Grass Trees and massive granite rocks.

Course superintendent Brad Hole works to keep the course manicured within the limited footprint allocated as part of the construction, which was a feat in itself. There is extensive heritage on the island and he can’t change the areas of rough, the fairways or the design. The designers were set the challenge of not allowing the holes to be visible through the Whitsunday passage – so the whales can’t see the course. They did a magic job. If you’re on a boat sailing past, you can’t see it either. 

Planning began in 1992 and the course was opened in 2009. It took eight years to get planning and design approvals and then three years to construct. It was a $50 million build. Brad started six weeks before the opening and is one of four people living on Dent Island. He has been superintendent for 14 years. 

“It’s a great job,” he said. “Hamilton Island Golf Club is the only golf course in Australia on its own island. There is planning approval for additional accommodation, but that would turn us into a resort on an island, with a golf course. At the moment, we are a golf course on our own island, which is super special. We are a destination and on many a bucket list.

“The course can be difficult to maintain, but it has matured over the years. We are all strongly committed to preserving the pristine environment of the world’s largest protected marine area – the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park,” says Brad.

“The grass areas look gorgeous, and you’d think you’d be able to wander through, but it’s thick and dense and the ground is uneven. 

“We don’t cut the fairways crazy short because we want to limit the run and we don’t want too many balls rolling off into the national park. In certain areas, we’ve reduced the rough to limit the roll off. 

“We get plenty of golfers who tell us, once they’ve played it and gained an understanding, they need to come back and play it again. We suggest if you’re new to the game, you’ll need around three dozen balls for 18 holes to keep the game going. 

“We have golf balls on the drinks buggy, and we often sell another dozen to golfers after they’ve played the first nine holes. Titleist do very well out of us.”

Three sets of tees are referred to as Hoop Pine, Pandanus and Grass Tree – named after three native trees of differing heights. The course is challenging from the back tees, and more predictable from the forward marks. What you play off is a choice for each golfer.

The course is 11km to walk and it’s one kilometre from the end of the 17th to the start of the 18th. This was to effectively utilise the land for the perfect hole back to the clubhouse. A golf buggy is essential.

SIGNATURE HOLES: According to Brad, people talk about the 14th and call it ‘the Valley of Death.’   It’s part of a stretch of three holes to the 16th right out on the point of the island: a par-3, par-4 and another par-3. They offer magnificent views of the surrounding Whitsunday islands. 

“They are a pretty special three holes. Every hole has water views and to select one is tough.”

The 14th requires courage and instinct, and the breeze is as influential on club selection as the distance. It’s played to an elevated target, with bunkers surrounding the green on three of the four sides. This shot needs to be perfect to find the putting surface. 

The bail out, if there is one, is to the left of the green where a relatively easy pitch and putt will follow. Anything short or right off the tee will need to be reloaded, as (in my case) the chances of playing from the trees was nil. 

The 15th is a long downhill par-4 and playing into the prevailing wind is the reward for those who can hit a low ball. Although a generous landing area, the tee shot is played from an elevated tee and falls some 20m. A bunker located 230m on the right-hand side of the fairway is the last salvation for any ball catching the wind and heading west. 

The second calls for a long accurate shot under the wind to a large green protected by two bunkers on the right and then, careful reading of the wind is required for the shot into the green. 

Turning for home with Hamilton Island to the right and the clubhouse in the distance, the 16th offers no respite. It’s an elevated tee shot that plays over a steep escarpment to a plateau green with a small pot bunker on the front right. 

With just a couple of majestic rock relics poking out of the surface to the right of the green, wind plays a pivotal role and only shots ending up on the green or short with remain in play. This hole is one of the most spectacular on the course.

Brad’s favourite is the fourth. 

He says, you can be standing on the tee at certain times of the year and watch the humpback whales breaching as they migrate north from their feeding grounds in Antarctica. They travel along the east coast to the north of the Great Barrier Reef where they give birth and mate, before returning home. 

“In the whale season, I’ve been up there and seen pods of whales heading north through to the Whitsundays. It’s mostly during June and July or when they’re returning south between August and October. There is a private beach you can see down below and it’s something special. The beach isn’t accessible – it’s at the bottom of a cliff – but it’s an impressive view.”

The fourth is the first of the par-3s and in windy conditions, it’s one of the most treacherous on the course. You might be protected at ground level, but the wind rushes up the side of the rocks and you’ll find when the ball is 20 feet above you, it will do things you didn’t expect. It plays across a valley to a large, angled green which sits on a ridge with spectacular views of Long Island. It’s framed by a rocky outcrop to the right of the target. If you’re short and left on this one, your ball will be gone forever. 

TEE TIMES: The ferry timetable breaks up the tee sheet organically – as the ferry comes across at the top of every hour from 8am. Mostly, six tee times are booked from 9am, 10am and 11am. Transfers up to the clubhouse take a few minutes so by the time the first group is organised and teeing off, the next group is arriving. 

Groups feel like they have the whole course to themselves.

The last tee time for 18 holes is at 12.30pm. After that, bookings are for nine holes, which often includes groups who come for lunch and tee off at about 2pm. The pressure is on to be finished by the last ferry at 4.30pm.

Forty buggies are booked on most days and around 80 golfers play.

THE CLUBHOUSE: The contemporary clubhouse includes a welcome hand towel from friendly staff, a stunning view and a glorious restaurant. The lunch menu is inspired by fresh, local and seasonal produce.

Indoor and outdoor seating offers an opportunity to relax with a cool or hot drink before or after golf … or while friends or family play. Often, families with children arrive for morning tea while a partner plays the first nine, or a parent will come over and play, and the family will arrive for lunch. The club is very supportive of this idea and promotes a family friendly venue.

The restaurant doesn’t open at night.

PRO SHOP: Apparel in the Golf Club Pro Shop carries the Hamilton Island Golf Club logo. The pro shop doesn’t provide hardware, but it does have clubs, golf shoes and golf shirts for hire. The choice includes top of the line Titleist clubs – stiff shaft options with Scotty Cameron putters. 

BUCKET LIST OPTION: You can arrive by helicopter and staff will have a golf buggy and clubs waiting. The option is available from Hamilton Island airport, Airlie Beach or Hayman Island. 

Brad talks enthusiastically about weddings on the course and says “it’s a stunning location”. 

“We do it late afternoon as the sun’s going down – usually on one of the back nine holes. We line up the golf buggies and bring the guests out. 

“We have the service on the green or the fairway and we have the helicopter arriving with the bride or the bride and groom on the tee. And then a procession of golf buggy back to the clubhouse for the celebration.”

BEST TIMES TO TEE OFF: May to November – particularly during the Victorian or the NSW winter. The wet season is from January to March, but you still get the island breeze when hot.

FACT FILE Hamilton Island Golf Club Par-71 Designer: Peter Thomson/Ross PerrettGreen fees: Nine holes – $135; 18 holes – $195  (includes GPS fitted golf buggy and return Hamilton Island transfers) Club hire: $55 per person Shoe hire: $15 per person

Email: [email protected] www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au

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Golf Holidays Package

North Island Golf Tour, New Zealand

Queenstown Lakefront Villa Golf Retreat

Hamilton Island Golf Break

4 nights from AU$1,228.00 per person

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Accommodation

Hamilton Island is synonymous with quality, from its stunning views, luxurious hotels and now its world class golf course. This 4-night tour package includes 2 rounds at the Hamilton Island Golf Club located on its own private island.

4 night package includes:

• 4 nights at the Reef View Hotel Hamilton Island (double occupancy)
• Daily breakfasts
• Return Hamilton Island Airport/Marina to hotel transfers
• 2 rounds of golf at Hamilton Island Golf Club inc. shared golf cart (click the 'Golf' tab for more details)
• Use of catamarans, paddle skis, windsurfers and snorkelling equipmentUse of the gym, spa, sauna and tennis court hire
• Unlimited use of the scheduled 'Island Shuttle' service (7:00am – 11:00pm daily)
• Complimentary WiFi (download limits apply)
• 24 hour local assistance

Prices based on 2 people travelling.

UPGRADE your tour package by staying at the 5-star Beach Club, the luxurious Qualia resort or the Luxury Yacht Club Villas, which are ideal for groups.

ADD-ON to your tour package with day tours to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach or a Sunset Cocktail Cruise.

Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island

Directly opposite Catseye Beach, Reef View Hotel boasts a restaurant, bar and outdoor swimming pool. Each room offers free Wi-Fi and a private balcony overlooking the gardens or the Coral Sea.

Buffet breakfast, light lunches and an à la carte dinner menu are served in the Pool Terrace Restaurant, overlooking the 35-metre heated swimming pool. The Reef Lounge offers a selection of beer and wine.

Guests have free access to the island's fitness centre, sauna and tennis courts. Guests enjoy free use of all non-motorised water sports equipment, including windsurfing and snorkelling gear.

Beach Club (Upgrade)

With absolute beachfront views and beautiful landscaped gardens, the Beach Club Hamilton Island is a boutique retreat exclusively for adults. Romantic, intimate and perfect for couples, the well appointed boutique rooms have a stylish and relaxed beach house vibe, tailor-made for relaxing. All rooms at the Beach Club Hotel have a private courtyard or balcony looking onto palm-fringed Catseye Beach and the Coral Sea.

Qualia (Upgrade)

Qualia is a unique Australian expression of world-class luxury and outstanding example of design. It is situated on the secluded northern-most tip of Hamilton Island and surrounded by the unsurpassed beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Everything has been meticulously considered to relax the mind yet completely spoil the senses. This world-class resort immerses you in a tranquil atmosphere, offering personalised and intuitive service and is a favourite of Hollywood's elite.

Hamilton Island Golf Club

Situated at the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island Golf Club, has some of the most spectacular views and settings for golf holes of any golf course in the world.

Designed by five-times British Open winner Peter Thomson, the 18-hole par 71 championship course is located on nearby Dent Island and guests can reach the golf club by boat transfer from the marina.

Recognised as one of the most challenging courses in Australia, Hamilton Island Golf Club takes full advantage of Mother Nature’s work, as it stretches along the spectacular ridges and steep valleys of Dent Island. The course boasts a variety of obstacles including wicked crosswinds and thick, impenetrable bushland. Some golfers even refer to the 14th hole as the ‘Valley of Death’.

Despite its tough layout, Hamilton Island Golf Club is a ‘must do’ for golfers of all abilities, as the spectacular views of the surrounding Whitsunday Islands and Coral Sea and the contemporary Clubhouse create an unforgettable golfing experience.

Attractions

Click here to enquire about this package

Hamilton Island has a well-deserved reputation as one of Australia’s most luxurious and exclusive holiday destinations. Ideally located in the tropical Whitsunday Islands, Hamilton Island is the perfect place to enjoy iconic experiences such as the Great Barrier Reef, the squeeky sand at Whitehaven Beach and the heart shaped reef.

Accommodation on Hamilton Island comes in many different forms with the Reef View Hotel overlooking the stunning Catseye Beach, the most popular of options. However, if you are looking for something a little more exclusive you could check-in to the beachfront adults only Beach Club or the secluded and ultra-luxurious Qualia resort situated on the northernmost tip of the island.

If all this wasn’t enough there is also an 18-hole championship golf course located on its own private island adjacent to Hamilton Island. Golfers take a ferry from Hamilton Island Marina and relax on the 10-minute ride to Dent Island, truly a unique way to arrive at the first tee!

Designed by legendary Australian golfer and 5-time Open Championship winner, Peter Thomson, Hamilton Island Golf Club is a course to tick off any keen golfers’ bucket-list. With breathtaking views over the turquoise Coral Sea and Whitsunday Island beyond, this incredible layout is a course for the senses to feast on. So, if your game is not up to scratch when you play, the scenery will help you remember how lucky you are.

On your non-golfing days, Golf Explorer can also arrange snorkelling and diving trips to the UNESCO heritage site and iconic natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef or to the pristine white sands of Whitehaven Beach. Take a cruise or experience the wonder of a seaplane landing on the ocean and get a different perspective of this incredible region. Then, at the end of the day relax on a sunset cocktail cruise before dining in one of the islands eclectic restaurants.

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Review: Hamilton Island Golf Club

An island that was once home to little more than “two goats and a lighthouse”, is today the spectacular setting for one of australia’s best golf courses..

There are few, if any, more beautiful settings on the planet to play golf than in the heart of Queensland’s world-famous Whitsunday Islands at the Hamilton Island Golf Club.

I’m certainly not alone in singing the praises of this Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett-designed layout and the million-dollar views you can experience from every corner of the course.

“It is one of the most beautiful golfing venues in the world,” says one of Queensland’s favourite golfing sons, Ian Baker-Finch.

“The Whitsundays are the Greek Islands of Australia, with better weather, spectacular beaches and an easy-going lifestyle and Hamilton Island lies right in the middle of it. I love it.

“The golf course is spectacular. It can be a tough course because there is always some kind of wind. But if you go there with the idea it’s going to be a beautiful day, and a great opportunity for some spectacular photography, take in the views and enjoy the course. Amazing!”

While most of Baker-Finch’s post-playing career has been spent behind a microphone as a TV broadcaster following the PGA Tour in the United States, he has also been involved in other businesses including course design, which saw him see the site of the current layout 12 years before it opened for play in 2010.

“I have a great affinity for the course,” Baker-Finch said.

“Back in 1998, I walked across the property through the tall grass and through the rocks laying out a course as our design company wanted the job of building the course. The army corps of engineers made it very difficult during the approval process, which is why it took another 12 years for it to happen.”

Dating back to the late 80s, there were plenty of people who could see the potential for a world-class golf course on Dent Island, Hamilton Island’s closest neighbour. All that was needed was significant funding as well as a willingness to move heaven and earth to bring the layout to life. In 2003, the first piece of the puzzle – money – was solved.

That was the year wine export pioneer and world-renowned yachtsman, Bob Oatley, purchased Hamilton Island for $200 million and the six years that followed he invested another $300 million into the upgrade of the resort isle.

A significant part of that investment included the construction of the Hamilton Island course on Dent Island, which, according to Ross Perrett, was one of the hardest sites he and Peter Thomson ever designed a course on.

“It was a hard build because it was rocky … very rocky. Before the golf course, Dent Island had two goats and a lighthouse and that was about it.”

RIGHT:  A view and hole to remember – the long, downhill par-4 18th. PHOTO: Gary Lisbon.

Dent Island is a tropical tree and scrub-covered monolith that rises steeply, to about 145 metres at its highest point, from the aquamarine waters of the Coral Sea below. The course can only be reached by ferry from the Hamilton Island marina and as you cross the Dent Island passage there is little to suggest a golf course lies on the ridges and cliff-tops high above.

It only takes a few holes into the round to really appreciate what an incredible feat of engineering, course design and construction it was to create a layout across such dramatic and rugged terrain.

Perrett recalls the first visit he and Thomson made to Dent Island to “get a feel” for what lay ahead during construction.

“We couldn’t find any flat land to start with,” Perrett laughs.

It was early 2006 and Thomson was already in his late 70s. But his excitement for the job ahead could not be dented, despite the difficulties that lay ahead.

“Peter astounded me with his enthusiasm to walk around the site,” Perrett recalls. “He was dodging rocks bigger than footballs that were hidden in the high grass. But he was so keen to see how the course was going to take shape.”

“It was a hard build because it was rocky … very rocky. Before the golf course, Dent Island had two goats and a lighthouse and that was about it.” – Co-designer, Ross Perrett

There were 24 environmental impact statements completed – covering vegetation, water, the reef, wildlife and birds – before any land was turned on the course.

“So, there was a lot of work before we started. The Hamilton Island people who got the permits to build did a hell of a job,” Perrett says. “Many people would have given up but Bob Oatley had the belief that it could be done. He was patient and willing to tick the boxes to get it done.”

Once a construction date was set the first hurdle was to get all the heavy machinery onto the island, which was no mean feat given the steep cliffs, rocky shorelines and coral reefs that surround the island.

“The landing (jetty) that is there now came after the course was finished,” Perrett said.

“The landing we had to bring all the equipment on was very tricky. So, all the machinery – the bulldozers and earth-moving trucks – had to be barged across from the mainland and had to come onto the island at high tide.

“It was a difficult exercise and we had to be very careful because there is a coral reef right around the island. It was quite amazing really.”

Then came the task of clearing scrub, shaping the land and finding 18 holes across the dramatic landscape.

“The holes were tough to find,” Perrett says. “The first nine is in and around a valley and has a lake, which we raised about two metres, and that solved the water problem. The first four holes go out and then you loop back to finish the nine. The second nine was much more difficult to design.

“There’s a ‘razorback’ shaped ridge running south. The course runs out along the ridge but then there’s no way back, which is why there is a one-kilometre track between the 17th green and 18th tee. That also had its advantages because you get that beautiful view from the 18th tee to end the round.”

Building a golf course on an island was always going to be logistically tricky, and expensive. But the construction and design team became very resourceful to keep the costs down. When it came to sand-capping the course the cost could have blown the building budget.

“The cost to barge in sand from the mainland would have been prohibitive so we made our own sand on the island,” Perrett chuckles. “There were seven crushing machines on the island, and we crushed our own sand. We didn’t waste anything. Rocks the size of Volkswagens were crushed into beautiful sand.”

Hundreds of tons of crushed rock were turned into sand that formed the course’s foundations on which the Bermuda Tifeagle and couch playing surfaces would grow.

Then in August 2009, just days after Peter Thomson celebrated his 80th birthday, the first shots were struck on the layout that has since risen to become the No.14 ranked Public Access Course in Australia ( Golf Australia magazine 2019) and one of the world’s most visually spectacular courses.

Asking Perrett to pick his favourite hole is like getting him to choose one of his grandkids over another.

“The land dictated where the par-3s would be and the course has a wonderful set of them,” Perrett says. “I think all the par-3s offer something different during the round.

“The course, as a whole, rates pretty good among all those (more than 230 courses) we were involved with designing.

“I’m very proud that we were able to overcome all the logistical challenges and build a course in a World Heritage marine park, which makes it unique in the world. That’s pretty special.”

It is, indeed, special.

The opening trio of holes – all cut into a ridge on the north side of the clubhouse – eases you into the round.

Then it is most definitely game on when you reach the par-3 4th, the first of Thomson and Perrett’s “wonderful set” of one-shotters. From the back markers, known as Hoop Pine, this 175-metre brute is played across a scrub-filled valley to a large, undulating green that is more exposed to the wind than any other hole on the front nine. The putting surface lies on a ridge where shots long and short left are gone for good. Played against the backdrop of distant Long Island and the mainland, as well as being beautifully framed by rocky outcrops, this is a hell of good hole. And if Perrett won’t say it, I will. This is the best hole on the course.

As Baker-Finch eluded to earlier, wind is ever-present during a round here. Even a zephyr can heavily influence the flight of shots as you find yourself regularly playing up and down dramatic slopes or across exposed ridges high above the ocean below. When your ball shoots up into the breeze here, you’re putting the shot result into the lap of the golfing Gods.

The trio of holes bookended by the par-3 14th and 16th holes, are not only visually spectacular but they ask questions of your ball-striking skill, club selection and golfing bravery.

The 14th can be played from tees spread from 150 metres, to 143 and as short as 113 metres. No matter where you peg your ball up, the tee shot needs to be perfectly struck. The only ‘good’ miss here is left of the putting surface as five bunkers ring the remainder edges of the green. Any ball dropping short or drifting right into the scrub will never be seen again.

The following hole can prove to be significantly longer than the scorecard suggests, despite playing downhill. From the tips, it is 387 metres to the green with the prevailing wind here into your face. The key here is keeping every shot from tee to green under the wind to avoid drifting wide of the narrow fairway and green. Make a bogey or better here and you can crack a smile and soak in the view as you walk to the 16th tee.

If the wind was into you on 15, it will be behind you on 16, which adds to the difficulty of club selection from the elevated tee of the 160-metre par-3. Perched high above the waters of the Whitsundays Passage to the right, the smallish green has been carved out of a steep hill to the left and only those tee shots that finish short or on the putting surface will provide the opportunity of making a par.

No matter what the scorecard looks like at the conclusion of your round at Hamilton Island, you will have had a great time. There are some fun shots and holes, there are also plenty of tough ones thrown into the mix. But there is also the sensory overload of visually striking views, the smell of the sea and feel of the tropical sun that guarantees any day on the course at Hamilton Island is bound to be a memorable one.

LOCATION: Dent Island, Whitsunday Passage.

CONTACT: (07) 4948 9760.

WEBSITE: www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au

DESIGNERS: Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett (2009).

PLAYING SURFACES: Bermuda TifEagle (greens), Greenlees Park couch (fairways, tees and rough).

COURSE SUPERINTENDENT: Brad Hole.

GREEN FEES: $160 (18 holes, including ferry transfers from Hamilton Island and GPS-fitted electric golf cart). Club hire: $45 per person.

FACILITIES: The stunning clubhouse offers views of Passage Peak, the Coral Sea and surrounding islands. As well as a bar and outstanding restaurant, there’s also a well-stocked Pro Shop and locker rooms.

ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES: Hamilton Island has a large range of accommodation options available from premium luxury through to affordable island bungalows.

The club is offering a Golf Getaway Package including three nights’ accommodation, daily breakfast as well as a round of golf starting from $645 per person twin share.

For more details visit the website www.hamiltonisland.com.au or call 1300 091 884.

* This package is available for travel between April 19 and July 31, 2021.

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On the Road >> Hamilton Island

Island adventures in the sunshine sate.

When it comes to playing golf in Australia, destinations like the Melbourne Sandbelt, King Island and Tasmania are the first that come to mind for great golfing adventures.  Queensland is definitely not rated as one of the best states for golfing in Australia but we do have a couple of gems that I have had the pleasure of playing.

A short 1 hour and 45 minute flight north from the Sunshine Coast lies the beautiful Whitsunday’s and among the many islands is Hamilton Island.  As soon as we step off the plane we were greeted by the warm breeze and the sight of palm trees swaying gently in the wind. The excitement of our adventure building as we catch a glimpse of Dent Island across from us, where lies the challenging 18 hole, par 71 Championship Golf Course that promised a unique golfing adventure unlike an other.

An early morning start to catch the ferry, the air is still and the rest of the island is fast sleep. The 10 minute ferry ride across to the golf course was not merely a mode of transportation but a precursor to the adventure that awaited us.

Whilst on the ferry the Golf Course comes into view;  strung along the ridges and steep valleys of Dent Island. Designed by legendary Australian golfer Peter Thomson, along with Ross Perrett, the Hamilton Island Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course that challenges golfers of all skill levels.

As you step onto the first tee box, the opening trio of holes are all cut into a ridge on the north side of the clubhouse and ease you into the round. Then it is most definitely ‘game on’ when you reach the par-3 4th played across a scrub-filled valley to a large, undulating green that is more exposed to the wind than any other hole on the front nine.

There are two distinctly different 9-hole circuits, both of which return to the central Clubhouse which offers spectacular views over Dent Passage and the Whitsundays. The outward holes have a more compact layout, and the inward are strung out along the ridges to the south.

The layout takes full advantage of the island’s natural contours and features undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning ocean vistas from almost every hole. As you make your way through the course, you’ll encounter a variety of unique challenges that test your accuracy, strategy, and decision-making skills.

On the back 9 a couple of standout holes present themselves, the 15th a long downhill par 4 which stretches out towards the ocean and the downhill 16th par-3 played from an elevated tee box. Perched high above the waters of the Whitsundays Passage to the right, the smallish green has been carved out of a steep hill to the left and only those tee shots that finish short or on the putting surface will provide the opportunity of making a par.

The 17th hole, called the “Valley of the Giants,” is another memorable experience. Here, you’ll find yourself hitting your tee shot from an elevated position, surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees that frame the fairway, creating a sense of seclusion and tranquility.

No matter what the scorecard looks like at the conclusion of your round at Hamilton Island, you will have had a great time. There are some fun shots and holes, there are also plenty of tough ones thrown into the mix. But there is also the sensory overload of visually striking views, the smell of the sea and feel of the tropical sun that guarantees any day on the course at Hamilton Island is bound to be a memorable one.

Best time to visit:  May to November – particularly during the Victorian or the NSW winter. The wet season is from January to March, but you still get the island breeze when hot.

Best non-golf amenities: Snorkelling, hiking on the Island or and a day trip by boat around the Whitsundays.

There’s plenty to do during your stay on Hamilton Island. You can enjoy a wide selection of bars and restaurants, an abundance of water sports and activities – and that’s just the start, the Wildlife park is a favourite for families and for adrenalin junkies take an off-road adventure tour, lounge by one of the many island pools or indulge in a massage or spa treatment.

• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet
• Great Barrier Reef Adventures
• Camira Sailing Adventures
• Island Escape Day Cruises
• Airlie Beach
• Groups & Events
• Resort Connections
• Flash Sale!
• Turtle Club
• Newsletter sign-up
• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet
• Great Barrier Reef
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• Island Paradise
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What to bring

Hamilton Island Golf

Highlights and inclusions.

Cruise to Hamilton Island from Airlie Beach, then board the Links transfer vessel for the 10-minute hop across to Hamilton Island Golf Course on Dent Island. Green fees include an electric golf buggy fitted with a GPS rangefinder. After your round, enjoy drinks or a long lunch in the Chris Beckingham-designed Clubhouse, also with magnificent Whitsundays views. There are locker rooms and a well-stocked pro shop on site. Return to Hamilton Island and the mainland after lunch.

• Scenic return cruise through the Whitsundays to Hamilton Island
• Transfers to/from Dent Island
• 18 holes at Hamilton Island Golf Course
• Shared electric golf buggy

• Golf clubs and shoes
• Sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Light jacket/sweater for a cool or windy day
• Dress code applies: collared shirt for men; no denim, board shorts or rubber thongs
• Credit card for Clubhouse dining and drinks

Club hire can be arranged for $45 per set.

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• Etiquette & Dress Code

Green Fees & Equipment Hire

Golf Groups

Golf Club Gift Vouchers

• Tee Off Times
• Request a Tee Time

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Idyllic destination Play golf on Hamilton Island

The mild weather, year round, makes this a very pleasant and enjoyable golfing destination.

Play golf on Hamilton Island

The only 18-hole championship golf course located on its own island in Australia, the Hamilton Island Golf Club provides a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.  Whether you’re a budding golfer, keen club player or an experienced professional, the Hamilton Island Golf Club offers a truly unique golfing experience. 

Review the scorecard for Hamilton Island Golf Club online, before you play.

Etiquette & dress code

To maintain the quality of the Hamilton Island Golf Club, we ask all guests to abide by our dress regulations and course etiquette.

All green fees for the Hamilton Island Golf Club include your round, a GPS-fitted golf buggy, and return ferry transfers from Hamilton Island to Dent Island.

Travelling in a group? Complete your details and we will contact you with the best package to suit your needs

Find out more

Hamilton Island Golf Club Gift Vouchers, the perfect idea for a visit to the Whitsundays.

Tee-off times

Tee-off times for the Hamilton Island Golf Club vary slightly throughout the year, so it’s important to check them before you arrive for your game.

What you’ll love about playing golf at the Hamilton Island Golf Club:

• The par 71, 18-hole course provides a fun and challenging experience for all levels of golfers. Designed by champion Australian golfer, Peter Thomson, the course is in keeping with the natural formations of the island, and includes two distinct 9-hole circuits, each of which ends up back at the Clubhouse.
• During your game, you can enjoy magnificent, 360-degree views across the Whitsunday Islands and sparkling Coral Sea.
• After your game, the contemporary Clubhouse is a perfect place to relax and enjoy some refreshments.
• The mild weather, year round, makes this an idyllic and temperate golfing destination.
• Combine your golfing experience with a holiday on Hamilton Island and enjoy sensational food and wine, as well as more than 60 exciting activities for all ages and energy levels. 
• Dent Island is very easy to get to, and is just a short 10 minute ferry ride from Hamilton Island. Return ferry transfers are included in your green fees.

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CW: Hamilton Island Golf Experience

Departure Times

This tour is no longer operating. Check out our other tours from Hamilton Island !

Enjoy a world-class round of 18 holes at Hamilton Island's championship golf course!

• Golf course located on spectacular Dent Island - just a short ferry from Hamilton
• Stunning 360° views across the dazzling Coral Sea on nearly every hole
• Green fees, electric golf buggy and GPS rangefinder included
• Challenging 18-hole par 71 championship course
• Suited for both novice and professional golfers of all experience levels
• Course designed by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson

With spectacular ocean and Whitsunday Island views and a championship 18-hole renowned golf course, it's easy to see why  Hamilton Island Golf   Experience is one of the most sought-after activities in the area! This par 71 golf course takes full advantage of the breathtaking surroundings, while the course is a variety of spectacular ridges and steep valleys creating exciting obstacles including the 'Valley Of Death".

Cruise to Hamilton Island from Airlie Beach then board the links transfer for the 10 minute hop across to Dent Island. After your amazing round finishes, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and drinks in the Clubhouse, before returning back to Hamilton Island to spend time exploring the island amenities or relaxing by the pool. This golf experience is truly in a league of its own, and suitable for adults of all experience levels - what are you waiting for?

Hamilton Island Golf Features:

• Scenic return ferry transfers through the Whitsundays to Hamilton Island
• 18 holes of prestigious golf at Hamilton Island Golf Course
• Transfers to/from Dent Island
• Electric Golf Buggy and GPS Range Finder 
• Green Fees and access to Chris Beckingham-designed Clubhouse
• Memorable golf experience unlike anywhere else in the world
• Visit shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants on Hamilton Island

Hamilton Island Golf is the perfect day activity for those golf lovers out there. Enjoy complete serenity at this golf oasis tucked into the heart of the Whitsundays Islands. Spend a romantic day with your partner, or celebrate some much needed time with your friends. The location will leave you speechless, as you sit back and relax, cruising around this championship course. It's the perfect tour to combine a visit to the infamous Hamilton Island, and to finally have time to treat yourself to that golf game!

Important Information:

• Please note dress code applies: collared shirt for men; no denim, board shorts or rubber thongs.
• Hamilton Island does not accept cash, so please bring a credit or debit card for purchases. 

Departs/Returns

Airlie Beach - Port of Airlie Marina

• Departs: 7:15am
• Returns: 6:25pm 

Daydream Island - Daydream Island Marina

• Departs: 7:50am
• Returns: 5:50pm

*All timings are approximates only. Please allow s...

*All timings are approximates only. Please allow space in your itinerary for slight schedule changes and amendments. 

More Information

What to bring.

• Golf Clubs and shoes
• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• light jacket/sweater for cooler days
• Card for Clubhouse dining and drinks - Hamilton Island doesn't accept cash
• Dress code applies: collared shirt for men; no denim, board shorts or rubber thongs

What's Included

• Return Ferry Transfers from Airlie Beach to Hamilton Island
• 18 holes at Hamilton Island Golf Course
• Shared electric golf buggy...
• Shared electric golf buggy
• Green fees and access to Clubhouse

What's Extra

• Card payment for additional island purchases and activities (Cash not accepted on the island)
• Lunch and Drinks

Terms and Conditions

Important Information: 

This tour is adults 18+ only.

Your Responsibilities:

Please advise us before booking if any passengers are under 18 years old to ensure this is the appropriate trip. 

You must reconfirm all booked tours prior to travel as specified on your voucher. If applicable, notes such as dietary requirements, pick-up locations and additional fees should also be confirmed at this time. Reconfirmations cannot be actioned through Sailing Whitsundays/Mr Travel, and must be done so directly through the Service Operator as specified on each ticket.

It is your responsibility to notify us of ticket discrepancies. Please read through the details on your voucher thoroughly to ensure all details such as passenger names, ages and dates of travel on vouchers are correct.

It is the responsibility of all passengers travelling to advise both your travel agent at the time of booking and vessel check-in agent before boarding of any medical conditions including food allergies you may suffer from.

You need to allow adequate time to check-in prior to the specified departure time. 

Prices/Extra Costs:

All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST. Surcharges over peak holiday seasons may apply. 

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices and extra costs. Extra costs may include EMC fees, Stingersuit/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc. Bonds may also apply.

We will also endeavour to communicate these extra costs with you at the time of booking, and on your ticket. However, it is your responsibility to confirm which (if any) additional costs apply with each Service Operator upon reconfirming your trip.

Travel Risk/Insurance:

It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of our clients which are beyond our control. We highly recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. You should also ensure your travel insurance will cover special circumstances including weather events preventing guests from travelling to their tour departure destination and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances. 

The Service Operator reserves the right to limit courtesy transfers to select local accommodations. Private residences or Airbnb properties may be asked to meet at the closest confirmed location. Failure to meet at the specified pick-up location may be treated as “No Show”, for which the Client Cancellation Policy applies.

Merchant Fees:

Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD card purchases.

Other: 

Terms and Conditions (including the Cancellation Policy) are subject to change. The most recent versions can be found online on the relevant product pages. 

All ticket/voucher reissues attract a $20 administration fee.

Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:

Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value. 

E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees. You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.

Cancellations

Client Cancellations:

No-shows or client cancellations made within 48 hours of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price. 

Sailing Whitsundays are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period (48 hours). It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during standard business hours (9am-5pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider.

Transfers between tours can be made at the suppliers discretion, however, it should be noted that supplier fees may apply. Tour transfers also incur a $20 administration fee. 

It is compulsory that all cancellation requests are in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Cancellations attempted via online chat or phone will not be actioned.

Supplier Cancellations:

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply a fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport and vary itineraries and services if necessary.

All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Service Operator. If the Service Operator has to cancel the trip or activity (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus a 20% administration fee and any associated card fees. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.

In the unlikely event of your trip being cancelled or stood down, all guest communication is required to go through our Online Store via telephone or email. While there is a Sailing Whitsundays retail outlet located Airlie Beach, please be aware that they operate as a separate entity and are unable to access reservations made by the Mr Travel online department.

All refunds are in Australian Dollars and must be made to the card of payment. Sailing Whitsundays/Mr Travel is not liable for exchange rate fluctuations or fees, or any other merchant/bank fees associated with domestic and/or international transactions.

Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the administration fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply.

You will be emailed confirmation once the refund has been processed. Once the refund has been processed, it may still take time for the banks to clear the amount. Please allow 7-10 business days for the funds to clear into Australian accounts and up to 21 business days for international accounts.

Accountability/Misconduct:

All Service Operators have the right to provide client feedback and to cancel bookings based off of feedback from other Service Operators. 

Please enjoy your travel experience in a kind and responsible manner.

Sailing Whitsundays/Mr Travel will treat this as any normal client cancellation and therefore the cancellation fees stated in the Client Cancellation Policy will apply.

Thank you for booking with our East-Coast travel experts here at Mr Travel/Sailing Whitsundays.  If you would like any further advice, assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours please get in touch.

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Sailing Whitsundays acknowledges the Ngaro, Gia and Juru people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and seas in which we operate. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples.

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Travel at your own pace Buggy Hire

Take a self-drive tour, or hire a golf buggy to go between your accommodation and points of interest across the island.

Hamilton Island’s iconic golf buggies offer a convenient and fun way to get around the island - at your own pace.

What you’ll love about hiring a Hamilton Island golf buggy:

• Take a self-drive tour of the island, or simply hire a buggy to get between your accommodation and points of interest across the island.
• Easy to drive.
• 4-seater buggies available (maximum 4 people per buggy).
• All golf buggies have a canopy for shade, headlights for night driving, and drink-holders for refreshments.

Buggy Hire Charging Areas

View our Buggy Hire charging areas map to find out where to recharge your buggy.

Details at a glance

• Authorized drivers must be a minimum age of 21 years and hold a current provisional driver’s license or above to drive the vehicle
• A buggy returned earlier than the original contracted time is non refundable.
• The maximum persons on a buggy is 4 people.
• All occupants of the buggy must be wearing their individual seatbelt at all times.
• All accidents, incidents or breakdowns must be reported immediately by using the numbers provided on the key tag.
• Hamilton Island does not permit any vehicles to be driven between 1:00am and 5:30am.
• A passenger less than six months old must be restrained in a rearward facing infant restraint, located in the front seat and secured to an engineered anchor point and fitted seatbelt.
• A passenger at least six months old, but less than four years old must be restrained in an approved forward facing child restraint and secured to an engineered anchor point and fitted seat belt.
• Children are not permitted to travel on the lap of another passenger.
• A passenger four years old and above must not occupy the front passenger seating position if there is another passenger who is less than four years old.
• All passengers in your vehicle must always wear a seatbelt or child restraint when driving.
• It is illegal to hold a mobile phone in your hand while driving.You can be fined $1,078 and have 4 demerit points recorded against your traffic history.

We highly recommend to pre-request your tours to avoid disappointment. Please click on the above button to submit your tour request.

Getting Around

Being car-free gives Hamilton Island a very unique, relaxed and tranquil ambience. And despite the lack of cars, it’s also still incredibly easy and fast to get around.

Find out more

Hamilton Island App

Everything you need to know about Hamilton Island guest services, facilities, activities, opening times and what's on.

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