Few golf experiences in Australia can match the sheer spectacle of Hamilton Island Golf Club. Set on its very own island in the heart of the Whitsundays, this course isn’t just a round of golf—it’s a destination.
Designed by five-time Open Champion Peter Thomson, the course blends tropical views, rugged elevation, and smart design to create a bucket-list round for any travelling golfer.
Course Overview
- Location: Dent Island (accessed via short ferry from Hamilton Island)
- Par: 71
- Length: 6,120m from the championship tees
- Designer: Peter Thomson
- Green Fees: Around $140–$200 AUD (includes ferry and cart)
From the moment you step off the ferry, you realise this isn’t your average golf day. The course stretches across the island’s ridgelines, with 360° views of the Coral Sea, lush rainforest pockets, and dramatic coastal drops.
Layout and Design
The course winds through rolling elevation changes that deliver both stunning views and strategic challenges. No two holes feel the same, with some hugging steep slopes and others framed by ocean panoramas.
Standout Holes:
- Hole 5 – Par 3: A jaw-dropping drop shot with water on all sides. Short, but brutally exposed to wind.
- Hole 14 – Par 5: A sweeping dogleg left that tempts big hitters, but punishes anything offline.
- Hole 16 – Par 3: Possibly the most photographed hole on the course—cliffside tee, ocean backdrop, swirling wind.
Every hole demands attention—not just because of the views, but because course management is key. Gusty conditions and tight lies make club selection and ball control critical.
Conditions and Facilities
- Greens: Smooth and fast, with subtle breaks that can fool the eye.
- Fairways: Well-kept but tight—don’t expect much forgiveness.
- Carts: Mandatory (due to terrain), with GPS and club covers.
- Pro Shop & Range: Small but stocked; warm-up nets instead of a full range.
- Clubhouse: Elevated views, cold drinks, and a solid post-round meal.
It’s important to note that weather and wind are major players here. A calm day offers scoring chances, but when the wind picks up, you’re in survival mode.
Travel & Experience
- Getting There:
Fly to Hamilton Island (HTI), then take the short complimentary ferry to Dent Island. - Stay:
Hamilton Island offers a wide range of accommodations—from luxury resorts to holiday apartments. Ideal for combining a golf trip with a romantic escape or family holiday. - Extra Perk:
Non-golfers can join the ferry and enjoy the clubhouse, making it a scenic lunch spot even if they’re not playing.
Rating
| Category | Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Scenery | 10 |
| Course Design | 8.5 |
| Playability | 7.5 |
| Facilities | 8 |
| Overall Experience | 9.5 |
Final Score: 8.7/10
A must-play course for anyone heading to Que
Final Verdict
Hamilton Island Golf Club is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime course. It’s not just about the golf—it’s about the experience. From panoramic tee boxes to tropical winds and turquoise waters, it’s the kind of place you remember long after the scorecard fades.
Perfect for:
- Golfers who love scenic and strategic courses
- Couples or groups combining golf and leisure
- Anyone building their Australian golf bucket list
Room for improvement:
- Not walkable (mandatory carts)
- Conditions can vary depending on weather
- Not ideal for high-handicappers seeking forgiveness