Trail Fast Facts
Escape Beach is a 6.2km, grade 3 hike located on Hamilton Island, Queensland. This hike typically takes 2 hours to complete.
Warning
Walking trails are traversed at the walker's own risk. Please consider weather conditions, your physical fitness and your state of health. Hamilton Island accepts no liability for any injuries sustained.
Hike Overview
Escape Beach can be accessed directly from Saddle Junction, the trail takes you through the bushland of Hamilton Island, where you can sometimes see wallabies and other wildlife in their native island home.
Alternatively, if you are already at South East Head; you can continue to follow the trail around directly to Escape Beach. This trail follows the southern part of the island, giving you amazing views of the surrounding islands and the vast, aqua waters the Whitsundays is renowned for. The trail passes through a beautiful creek crossing, which often is teeming with butterflies and the calming sound of running water. The trail then climbs up and around to the top of the ridge of Escape Beach which you can see below.
Once at Escape Beach, you can relax on the lovely white sand and treat yourself to a well-earned swim after your walk. Coming here is better on high or mid tide unless you don't mind a bit of an extra walk out to go for a swim.
There are a range of trails available depending on your fitness levels, and how far you want to walk. The route and description described here is one option.
Photo by Andrew Caitens.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Tips
Bush & walking trails are open from 6.30am to 5.30pm. The trails are not staffed and do not get closed off in the evenings.
Most trails are rocky. Sturdy, enclosed footwear with good tread is required.
You can pick up a free copy of the Hamilton Island walking map at the tour desk on the island.
Please note there are no toilets on the walking trails.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 77 m
Min elevation: 14 m
Total climbing: 318 m
Total descent: -318 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Whether you plan on arriving by plane, helicopter, boat, ferry or a private yacht, there are several hassle-free ways to get to and from Hamilton Island. The only Whitsundays Island with its own commercial airport, Hamilton Island Airport services direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Qantas.
Ferries cruise to Hamilton Island throughout the day from Port of Airlie and Shute Harbour on the mainland. Long term parking is available at the Port of Airlie terminals, as well as other parking within the precinct.
Refer to the individual walking trails for information about where each starts and finishes. A free walking map is available at the tour desk.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
About the region
Hamilton Island is one of the few Whitsunday Islands that isn't part of the National Park, but it's every bit as beautiful. You can forget that you are on a populated resort island so easily on one of the many walks, and the views are to die for!
Though it's been inhabited for close to 8,000 years, Hamilton Island remains very much a pristine, natural environment. From its original settlement by the Ngaro people, to its visit by Captain Cook in 1770, and evolution as a tourist destination in the 1970s and 1980s, Hamilton Island has had a long and interesting history. The island was purchased by renowned Australian winemaker, Bob Oatley, in 2003, and since, has become one of the world's leading holiday destinations.
While there is an abundance of restaurants, bars and resorts on Hamilton Island, only a third of the island is developed - meaning the rest remains in its pristine, natural state. There are more than a dozen walking trails through which guests can explore the island.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Hamilton Island or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.