Hayman Island Guide

Your guide to the stunning enclave of Hayman Island. Where Hayman Island is, how to get there, and what to do on the island.


Hayman island is a beautiful, secluded island situated in the Great Barrier Reef. Forming part of the renowned Whitsunday Islands, Hayman Island is located just off the coast of Queensland, Australia and is home to luxury holiday resorts and pristine beaches.

If you’re looking for a luxury island getaway, Hayman Island needs to be on your list. With white sands, turquoise waters, and activities to suit every type of holidaymaker, Hayman island needs to be on your bucket list.

In this guide, we’ll explore what there is to do on Hayman Island, from sightseeing and swimming to fishing and golfing to spa relaxation and shopping, and most importantly, how you’ll get to this idyllic destination.

Where is Hayman Island?

Hayman Island is situated 25 kilometres from the Queensland mainland. Boasting 294 hectares of land, Hayman Island is the most northern island of the island group and is part of the Great Barrier Reef. Hayman Island is open to the public and mostly known for its luxury resort, which was built on the island in the 1950s.

How to get to Hayman Island?

There are three ways to get to Hayman Island: by boat, by seaplane, or by helicopter. Your mode of transportation will be determined by your budget and your preferred style of travel.

Hayman Island Guide

Boat is (by far) the most popular mode of transportation. The island has its own marina and there are regular ferry services that travel from the mainland. If you prefer to meander your way there, or make the trip an occasion, then hiring a private boat charter is the best way to go.

Hayman Island is also ideal for your own private charter experience. Get in touch to learn more about everything that Wings offers.

What to do on Hayman Island

Even though the island only offers 294 hectares of land, there is a lot to explore on Hayman Island, which has something to offer for everybody. Whether you’re looking to see everything, or you believe the days are best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand, there’s something for every type of traveller on Hayman Island.

Sightseeing on the Island and the Grand Barrier Reef


Located on the doorstep of the UNESCO protected Great Barrier Reef, Hayman Island is home to uncountable numbers of exotic species of fish, coral, and other marine life. Snorkelling or scuba diving are great ways to explore this astounding part of one of the earth's natural wonders.

If the open water isn’t your style, there are several hiking trails all over the island. Ranging from easy to difficult, there is a hike for every kind of skill level. The must-see for hikers on this island is the Mt. Gower Walk, which takes about four hours to complete. But take your time, since there are a lot of exotic animals to spot on the trails, especially birds. From parrots over cockatiels to lorikeets, the island with its multiple bird sanctuaries will make you walk the island with wondering eyes, always looking for the next majestic bird in the green and lush trees.

Relaxation on the beach


There are several beaches all over Hayman Island that invite you to forget your sorrows and tan in the white sand. All of the islands' beaches have their own unique character. From paddling in the shallows on a secluded beach, to being seen on some of the most popular tourist beaches on the Whitsundays, there’s something for everyone.

While you’re here, take an unforgettable daytrip to Whitehaven Beach. With seven kilometres of pure white sand, it is widely lauded as one of the most spectacular beaches in the world.

Your Guide to Hayman Island

Enjoy sports and activities


Love the feeling of something nibbling your line? Hayman Island attracts keen fishers from all over Australia. Regardless of if it is deep-sea fishing or reef fishing that you enjoy, the island offers multiple spots for both. The island provides a lot of charter boats, or you can just find yourself a sunny spot on one of the tropical shores of Hayman Island and see what’s swimming in the shallows.

Hayman Island also offers an amazing golf resort. With one of the most scenic golf courses in Australia, the championship 18-hole par-72 course is surrounded by tropical and lush vegetation. No matter how intense your round of golf gets, you will catch yourself forgetting about the game while you soak in the views of this tropical paradise.

Enjoy a shopping and spa day


If chasing a small white ball around in the sun isn’t really your style, you’re going to love the Hayman Island Resort Spa. In a luxurious setting, this wellness temple offers a big variety of treatments, facials, and body wraps. The spa also comes with a sauna, a steam room, and, of course, a pool.

Once you’re sufficiently relaxed, Hayman Island Marina is an inviting place full of plenty of shops and restaurants to discover. Also, for your convenience, there are supermarkets, and a pharmacy are available at the marina. But beware, you will be paying for the remote location, so make sure you pack the essentials before you sail or fly to the island.

The best time to visit Hayman Island

Summer, of course! Hayman Island comes alive from late November to February. The warm weather and long days make Hayman Island an oasis for warm weather enthusiasts. There are endless activities, and the island is buzzing during this time, so you’ll never experience a dull moment. If you’re looking for a quieter getaway, then the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November are ideal. The weather is still idyllic, but you won’t be fighting the crowds. If you’re looking to visit outside of these times, then you won’t be disappointed - there is no wrong time to visit Hayman Island.

Wings offer the perfect private charter experience to explore Hayman Island

See it in style with a private charter from Wings. Hayman Island is the perfect getaway for your private charter experience. So stop daydreaming about seeing the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying its unique island landscapes. Book your trip to Hayman Island with Wings today!