This island is 3 hours from Sydney and honestly, it’s giving Euro summer.

Thanks to our brand partner, The Sundays Hamilton Island

If the past few years have taught us anything, it's that we've been seriously underestimating the magic of our own backyard. And yes, I'm talking specifically about the Sunshine State.

I won't lie, Europe is my spiritual home. But to get there? First I have to crawl through airport traffic, find long-term parking, cram onto a shuttle bus, squeeze into a plane for eight hours, stumble off said plane and then board another one for thirteen more. Sounds dreamy right?

So, if you're like me — always chasing pristine beaches and world-class dining without the jet lag (or the price tag) — meet your new favourite winter escape: Hamilton Island.

Picture crystal-clear waters that rival anything you'll find in Santorini, restaurants that would give Roman cuisine a run for its money and enough adventure to satisfy even the most restless traveller. The best part? You could be sipping cocktails with sand between your toes just a few hours after leaving Sydney, Brissy or Melbourne.

Still not sold? Here's your go-to list of everything to see and do on the island.

Where to stay.

If you're going to fall in love with Hamilton Island (and trust me, you will) you need to stay somewhere that really meets the magic of the destination.

Enter The Sundays — Hamilton Island's newest boutique hotel that's redefining what it means to wake up in paradise.

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Nestled in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, The Sundays is effortlessly chic — like stepping into a perfectly curated Euro-summer dream. The interiors flow seamlessly from one space to the next, filled with sophisticated décor that makes you want to snap a pic for your Pinterest board.

And the floor-to-ceiling windows? Necessary to frame those breathtaking Coral Sea views.

Sure, it's screensaver-level stunning — but what really sets it apart is the unbeatable access to Hamilton Island's finest experiences right at your doorstep…

Where to eat.

No need to go far to dine — The Sundays is also home to Catseye Pool Club, the island's breezy new dining gem.

It's helmed by none other than Josh and Julie Niland, two icons of modern Australian cuisine known for their sustainable, produce-driven approach.

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Here, you'll find fresh local ingredients as they should be — without the fuss.

Think ocean-to-plate seafood, vibrant tropical flavours and dishes that are somehow both elevated and effortless. It's relaxed, unpretentious and quietly brilliant — just like its setting.

What to do.

Once you've had your fill of fresh local cuisine, you've got your pick of Hamilton Island's best activities. Woken up craving a hike? Passage Peak is calling. Ready to get your heart pumping? Take advantage of complimentary access to water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Or maybe you're keen to take your golf game to new heights on a world-class course (on its own island — no biggie). Then naturally you've got endless stretches of sandy beach ready and waiting, all within easy reach.

Do the reef, your way.

Nothing beats the chance to connect with one of the world's most precious ecosystems — the Great Barrier Reef. The only question is, how do you want to see it?

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Only got an hour? Jet ski tours leave daily from the marina for those chasing a quick thrill. Want to put all that money you saved skipping international flights to good use? A scenic flight or heli-tour over Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach might just be your thing.

And if you're ready to go all in, nothing beats a day cruising the Whitsundays by catamaran. Or better yet, an overnight stay right on the reef gives you ample time to get acquainted with the local marine life.

However you choose to tick off one of the world's seven natural wonders, I guarantee one thing — you'll be planning your next trip before you've even dried off.

Craving some Zen? 

Whenever you're ready to wind down, Hamilton Island has you covered.

Try a sunrise yoga class at The Sundays, with breathtaking views of the Dent Passage. Fair warning: it might make your usual studio seem tragic.

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Of course, if you're really looking to decompress, the treatments at Spa Wumurdaylin are just a short stroll away waiting to melt the last memory of city stress.

Explore the island on foot.

The beauty of Hamilton Island is you can easily get around on foot and you should — it has too many treasures to ignore.

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The hike to Coral Cove is non-negotiable —it's one of those walks where every stop reveals a view more spectacular than the last. Escape Beach lives up to its name, giving off that Robinson Crusoe vibe where you can just disappear from the world for a few hours. Or for a challenge, head to the highest point of Hamilton Island up on Passage Peak.

Just remember to wear proper shoes and pack some water — it's not a walk in the park.

So, if you're ready to swap your European summer dreams for something even better, look no further than a Hamilton Island escape.

Trust me, future you will be sipping a sunset cocktail, feeling pretty smug about booking a trip to paradise that's practically in your backyard.

Book your stay at The Sundays Hamilton Island here.

Feature Image: Instagram/@thesundayshotel.

Nestled amongst the swaying palms of Catseye Bay, The Sundays is Hamilton Island's new boutique escape, where the best day of the week is every day of the week. With sun-drenched suites just steps from the beach, it's a place designed for slow mornings, salt-kissed afternoons, and open-air dining at Catseye Pool Club. Menus by Josh and Julie Niland hero Australia's best seafood and produce, served with views of turquoise water and a soundtrack of gently rustling palms. From sunrise swims to reef adventures, everything here invites you to unwind, explore, and stay a little longer. Book your escape today.