Palm Cove and Hamilton Island Whitsundays trip

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  • Explore the famous sands of Whitehaven Beach | Travel Nation

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  • The whole family are sure to fall in love with Hamilton Island | Photo credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

    Swing in a hammock on Hamilton Island | Credit: Tourism Events Queensland

Trip ideas

Duration(in days): 8

From: Cairns

To: Hamilton Island

From

£1,130

Exc. International flights (per person, based on 2 sharing)

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or Call 01273 320580

See more ideas for: Australia

Enjoy some relaxing time in beautiful North Queensland, staying in Palm Cove and on Hamilton Island, Whitsundays. Choose to be as relaxed or as active as you please; go snorkelling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef, board the Kuranda scenic Skyrail, explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest or simply unwind by the pool.

Palm Cove is a short drive from Cairns so it’s the perfect spot to begin your break. With plenty of tours operating out of Palm Cove daily, it’s easy to get out and explore the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding areas.

Your next stay is on Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays; from here you can easily head out onto the reef on a cruise, catamaran or sailboat, or visit Whitehaven Beach, known for its pure silicon sand and isolated beauty.

This trip can be tailored to you so if you would prefer upgraded accommodation, some additional day trips or some extra nights – please contact a consultant.

Highlights

  • Relax on the sandy beaches of Palm Cove
  • Spot the tropical marine life on the Great Barrier Reef
  • Head out to the world famous Whitehaven Beach
  • Enjoy a spa massage on Hamilton Island Whitsundays
  • Explore secluded coves on an island bushwalk

 

Itinerary in brief:

  • 3 nights Palm Cove
  • 4 nights Hamilton Island

 

Day 1: Arrive Palm Cove

On arrival into Cairns Airport, you will be met and taken by shared transfer to Palm Cove, a 30-minute drive away. After check-in, the day is yours to relax and explore the area.

Days 2 & 3: Palm Cove

Besides poolside relaxation, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Palm Cove; take a diving or snorkelling trip out to the Great Barrier Reef, drive up to the Daintree Rainforest or take the Kuranda Skyrail for spectacular treetop views over the Barron Gorge National Park.

We've included a tour to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef. This unique tour will take you out to the reef to swim amongst the colourful coral and shimmering fish where you'll be joined by both marine biologists and Indigenous Cultural Guides to learn about the Aboriginal culture and Dreamtime stories about the creation of the Great Barrier Reef. It's the perfect way to experience this wonder of the world whilst also learning about native Australian history and storytelling.

Day 4: Palm Cove to Hamilton Island, Whitsundays

You will be collected from your hotel today and taken to Cairns airport for your flight to Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays.

On arrival, you will be met and taken to your hotel with the rest of the day at leisure to plan your next few days on the island!

Days 5-7: Hamilton Island

We’ve included 3 days on Hamilton Island where you may simply choose to unwind, or enjoy some activities. On the island, you could go bushwalking, discover some secret coves or simply relax in the island spa.

A popular excursion is a trip out to the reef and the magnificent Whitehaven Beach with its fine silicon sand – perfect for buffing up your jewellery!

Day 8: Depart Hamilton Island

You will be taken to the airport today to connect with your onward flight.

 

In northern Queensland, there are benefits to visits at any time of year. December to February signifies the ‘wet season’, which means wet and humid conditions, however, this also translates to very little wind and so excellent visibility in the water. The humidity drops in April onwards, which is considered the start of the ‘dry season’, so it can be a cooler temperature but a little windier. October and November are peak dive months.

Are you looking for more Australia ideas?

We’re experts in planning tailor-made holidays, so whether you’re looking for a luxury Australia holiday, ideas for a road trip, a Great Barrier Reef holiday or multi-stop flights to Australia with stopovers – let us help you with the planning. Our experts can tailor-make precisely the trip you’re looking for - this itinerary is purely a suggestion, so please contact us with your dates and requests, and we’ll put together a bespoke quotation for you.

What's included
  • Return airport transfers in Palm Cove & Hamilton Island
  • 7 nights’ accommodation
  • Daily breakfast on Hamilton Island

 

Not included
  • International flights
  • Domestic flight – Cairns to Hamilton Island
  • Meals in Palm Cove
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips & gratuities