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.
South East Head Trail commences at the Scenic Trail Entrance. Follow the Scenic Trail to Saddle Junction, which is the main junction for the Passage Peak, South East Head, Escape Beach, Middle Head and Coral Cove trails. Dense bush gives way to exposed, rock features and sharp cliffs on this trail. A gigantic chair awaits you at the end of the walk to sit back, relax and take in the stunning views of the Lindeman group of islands. For the adventurous, include a walk via Passage Peak or Escape Beach before returning to Saddle Junction.
Starting at the Scenic Trail entrance at the east end of Catseye Beach, follow the trail to Saddle Junction. From here, continue up the trail toward Passage Peak and you will see the signage for South East Head. The first section of trail winds to a nice lookout which casts over the Resort and Catseye Beach.
From this point, continue on until you reach a steep hill. The signage will lead you right which will avoid the rocky, slippery hill in front of you, and will take you on a nice, easy 600m walk that pops you out at the top of the hill at Cabbage Tree Junction. The final section down to South East Head winds across the eastern face of the island, with water views the entire way, leading you down to South East Head and a forest of stunning native grass trees.
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.
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.
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.
Total distance: 8806 m
Max elevation: 155 m
Min elevation: 14 m
Total climbing: 471 m
Total descent: -455 m
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Hamilton Island.
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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Airlie Beach, Bowen, Cannonvale, Collinsville, Daydream Island, Hayman Island, Long Island, Proserpine, Shute Harbour, Whitsunday Island
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Hamilton Island? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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