Hayman Island, Australia.

A Family Escape to Hayman Island: Paradise and Peace of Mind.

Getting there.

In a world that feels increasingly unpredictable, there’s something comforting about looking closer to home for your next family holiday. And when home is Australia, the options are nothing short of extraordinary. Our recent trip to InterContinental Hayman Island was a much-needed reminder that you don’t have to leave the country to find world-class luxury, natural wonder, and meaningful experiences with your kids.

Getting There: The Holiday Starts Before You Arrive

With easy domestic flights into Hamilton Island and no jet lag, Hayman is an effortless escape — especially compared to long-haul travel with kids. From Hamilton, the journey continues via luxury boat transfer, complete with champagne, canapés, and sparkling Whitsunday views. For a more dramatic arrival, a helicopter transfer is available — though we saved that treat for our Great Barrier Reef excursion.

Why Now? Closer is Smarter

With global uncertainty still shaping international travel, exploring our own backyard has never been more appealing. And with the Australian dollar under pressure, spending locally gives you better value for a five-star experience, fewer travel headaches, and greater peace of mind — particularly for families.

Travel Tips

• Stinger Season runs from November to May — during this time, stinger suits are required for ocean swimming. They’re provided by the resort and the team makes it easy for kids to wear them confidently.

• Best time to go? Aim for September through early November or March to May. These shoulder seasons deliver the warm weather you want without peak-season crowds. Winter (June–August) can be cooler — especially in the water — though the heated pools keep swimming on the cards.

Wild Encounters on the Island

Hayman Island isn’t just about reef life — there’s plenty of friendly wildlife on land too. Cheeky white cockatoos often visit the resort grounds and are more than happy to say hello (or steal your snack!). You can feed them small amounts of approved food, but always check with staff first to make sure it's safe for their diet. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, too — they roam freely on the island, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. It’s a gentle reminder that you're sharing paradise with some of Australia’s most iconic creatures.

Where to Stay

Swim-Out Suite, All the Way

InterContinental Hayman Island delivers luxury with an easygoing, barefoot vibe. Our go-to room? The Swim-Out Room, where you can slide straight into a pool from your private deck. With young kids, it’s the perfect balance of convenience and indulgence.

Around the resort, you’ll find multiple pools suited to every age group. The shallow family pool is ideal for toddlers, while the main infinity pool offers deeper areas for confident swimmers. We also loved the cabanas that line the pool area — shaded, comfortable, and great for little ones needing a nap or snack break between swims.

Dining, Spa & Facilities

There’s no shortage of great food on Hayman. Pacific is perfect for relaxed breakfasts, Bam Bam delivers bold Asian flavours, and Aqua offers all-day bites beside the pool.

The Hayman Spa is a destination in itself (highly recommend the massage), and the gym is modern, bright, and open early for those looking to get a workout in before the day heats up.

A Reef Adventure to Remember

Our day trip to the Great Barrier Reef pontoon was one of the highlights of the trip. Travelling by helicopter, we soared over the reef before landing on a floating platform that felt like something out of a movie. The kids snorkelled with turtles, parrotfish, reef sharks, and countless species of bright coral life — it was an unforgettable, hands-on marine science class.

On the return journey, we made a stop at Whitehaven Beach — all dazzling silica sand and turquoise water — where the resort had arranged a private picnic just for us. Umbrellas, fresh seafood, cold drinks, and the whole beach (almost) to ourselves. Pure magic.

Local Excursions.

Island-Based Adventures

If a full-day reef trip feels a bit much for younger kids, Hayman also offers a variety of local excursions right from the resort. From nature walks and guided snorkelling tours to nearby island visits, there are plenty of family-friendly options to explore the reef and its marine life without venturing too far.

The island’s reef education program is also a must. Through interactive activities and expert talks, kids learn about ocean ecosystems, coral bleaching, and how their actions impact the planet — in a way that’s accessible and inspiring.

Protect your family & our oceans

Ocean-Friendly & Kid-Safe: Choose the Right Sunscreen

When visiting the Great Barrier Reef, it’s not just stinger suits that protect — reef-safe sunscreen is just as important. Many commercial sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm marine life and coral reefs.

For your family and the planet, opt for mineral-based sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They’re safer for sensitive skin and biodegradable in the ocean.

Some great reef-safe, Aussie-friendly options:

• We Are Feel Good Inc. – SPF 50+, non-greasy, and kid-friendly

• SunButter – Reef-safe, plastic-free tins, made in Australia

• Wotnot Naturals – Certified organic, gentle on little ones

Let’s protect the reef and our skin — it’s a small swap that makes a big difference.

Final Thoughts: Why Hayman?

This trip wasn’t just about beaches and sunshine — it was about unplugging, connecting, and showing our kids the beauty and importance of our oceans. Hayman offers all the trimmings of a luxury international holiday, without the flight time, jet lag, or currency stress.

If you're craving reef, rest, and real family memories — all while supporting Australian tourism and teaching your kids something meaningful along the way — Hayman Island delivers in every way.