Sharyn Cairns 
Sharyn Cairns 
Lean Timms 
Lean Timms 
Sharyn Cairns The crown jewel of the Oatley family’s idyllic Hamilton Island remains at the forefront of barefoot luxury when it comes to Australian coastal resorts. Offering 60 individual indoor-outdoor pavilions and impeccable amenities, Qualia is a favourite for big-name stars seeking a slice of quiet luxury in an eco-friendly bush-meets-beach setting (Julia Roberts and George Clooney made a movie here, Chris Hemsworth and Kylie Minogue are both fans).
The rooms
There are two main options when it comes to rooms (which are all private, standalone structures). Leeward Pavilions are perched amid lush tropical bushland with Coral Sea views, while the higher-end Windward Pavilions offer private plunge pools overlooking the Whitsundays dotted with superyachts. The understated wood-and-stone design features breezy louvered windows overlooking discreet sundecks shaded by eucalyptus trees teeming with birdlife.
Food & drink
It’s a captive audience, with two restaurants – the Long Pavilion off the central reception and Pebble Beach off the main pool deck – servicing guests throughout the day. Menus offer traditional fancy hotel fare, from made-to-order breakfasts and burgers to fresh oysters, caviar and crudo in the evening. If you dare leave the resort, the island’s Marina Village has more casual options, including a bakery and pub.
The service
A fleet of groomed resort staff will accommodate every whim and ensure your private golf buggy is charged and ready to go – everyone on Hamo drives the compact carts all over the island. The resort also has a private helicopter pad for those who wish to explore even further afield.
Ideal for: Barefoot luxurians
Why we love it:
- The location. It feels like a remote island getaway but is easily accessible from major cities via Hamilton Island Airport.
- The mirror-flat pool on Pebble Beach serving up quintessential Whitsunday vistas is surely one of Australia’s best swimming spots.
- The golf buggies. These come standard with every room, and driving through the dramatic entry gate is like entering The White Lotus. Cue intro theme!
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