Itineraries · Whitsundays

Hamilton Island: the climb to Passage Peak

Walk · Whitsundays. About 7 km on foot, 3 to 4 hours, 4 stops.

Whole route in Google Maps ↗Open on the interactive map
Hamilton Island: the climb to Passage Peak
Duration
about 7 km on foot, 3 to 4 hours (≈ 4 h: moving and stop time only)
Who it suits
Adults
Transport
walk
Start
Hamilton Island Marina
Finish
Catseye Beach
Pace
active day
Best time
May to September, start before 9am
Budget per adult
the trail is free; ferry A$74.50 one wayPrices as of: October 2026

Getting there

The Cruise Whitsundays ferry from Port of Airlie to Hamilton Island Marina is A$74.50 adult and A$63 child one way. A free shuttle runs on the island. Hamilton Island is cashless, so bring a card.

Stops in order

The text version of the route: stops, time at each and the legs between them. Times are estimates, without queues, traffic or swims.

  1. 1. Hamilton Island Marina~15 min at the stop

    The Airlie Beach ferries arrive here. Front Street is lined with cafes, the IGA store and bars.

    Tip: Buy water at the IGA: there are no shops or taps on the trail.

    Open on the map ↗

    ↓ walk · 20 min · 1.5 km

  2. 2. Scenic Trail entrance~5 min at the stop

    The resort recommends starting the Passage Peak climb here. At Saddle Junction the trails split towards the peaks and beaches.

    Tip: Rather not walk from the marina? The free island shuttle stops near the entrance.

    Open on the map ↗

    ↓ walk · 1 h · 2.7 km

  3. 3. Passage Peak~30 min at the stop

    The highest point on Hamilton Island, with a full sweep of the Whitsundays. The trail is challenging, with a steep final section and many steps.

    Worth knowing: The resort puts it at 2.7 km and about an hour one way from the Scenic Trail entrance.

    Tip: In summer go only in the early morning and carry at least a litre of water each.

    Open on the map ↗

    ↓ walk · 50 min · 3.2 km

  4. 4. Catseye Beach~1 h at the stop

    The island's main beach in front of the hotels: shallow water, loungers and kayak hire. Your reward after the descent.

    Tip: From October to May swim in a stinger suit or use the resort pool.

    Open on the map ↗

Before you go

  • Route times are estimates: walking, driving and a sensible pause at each stop. Add queues, traffic and swims yourself.
  • Prices, timetables and trail status change. Check the venue's official site and the state transport app before you go.
  • On beaches, swim only between the red and yellow flags. Use sun protection even when it is cloudy.