FAQ’s
How do I get the keys?
Your host will meet you at the airport or the ferry. Look for your name on the board. They will show you to your apartment and give you the keys. The team member will transport your luggage to the apartment and show you how the buggy works. They will also give you a contact number to call should there be any problems whilst you are on the island. It is important to let us know your arrival and departure details so that we can be at the airport to greet you. Any changes with your flights/ferry times please don’t forget to update us also.
how do I get back to the airport/ferry?
Before your checkout day your host will arrange a time with you to pick up your luggage, transport you back to the airport and hand back the keys.
will I be able to get a late checkout?
This will all depend if there is another booking after you. There is no guarantee. The best option is to ask when organising checkout as the team member will be able to tell you. If we can offer one, we certainly will. We realise check-out day is the worst day having to go back to reality.
do I need to make a restaurant booking?
During busy periods it is recommended that you book in advance your restaurant bookings. You can make these on the Hamilton Island App. If you like to eat at a particular time, it is also recommended to make a booking. Check menu and days they are open on the App.
What restaurants are good to eat at?
This one is up to personal tastes. Check out the Hamilton Island App to download each restaurant’s menu.
do Coles or woolies deliver to the island?
Not anymore. The IGA on Front Street is fairly stocked with almost anything that you will need to eat and drink. However, if you have specific dietary needs, we recommend bringing some. They do supply most vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, sugar-free, wheat-free, and lactose-free options; however, some items can not be guaranteed. There is only one supermarket to supply the whole island; certain foods do run low. We suggest going early in the morning or around mid-morning after the boats have arrived with deliveries. As for prices, yes, everything has a few extra dollars added for the extra freight. They close at 7 pm Monday to Saturday and at 6 pm Sunday. Don’t forget to bring your shopping bag; no plastic bags on the island. No cash payments. Card or digital payment only.
What tours do you recommend?
Without a doubt, if you have not been to Hills Inlet or Whitehaven Beach, this is a must. You will not regret this experience.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of a kind experience also. If you have not been, consider taking a day trip out to the reef.
Where can I see the turtles?
There are two places where you can try to see the turtles. On a Monday, head down to the Marina towards the Yacht Club and Bommie Deck. You can go onto the deck when the restaurant is closed. Stay dry and see if you can spot any turtles swimming at sunset from the deck.
The second place to spot them is on Catseye Beach. You will need to walk out to the water about 1 to 1.5 hours before low tide. They swim amongst the people snorkelling. Definitely bring your swimmers, mask, snorkel and flippers. Don’t forget to pick up a life jacket on your way past the sand for safety.
I have a Child, what Do I need to Bring?
We welcome all little people at Anchorage 1. We have supplied a high chair, port-a-cot, plastic bowls, cups and cutlery, beach toys and booster seat for the buggy (available after Nov 2023). It is a legal requirement that children under the age of 7 years of age MUST be seated in a car seat or booster seat when travelling in the buggy. Please let us know if you require a booster seat prior to your arrival. The booster seat is suitable for 4 to 8 years of age.
How many people are allowed on the Buggy?
A maximum of 4 people are allowed on the buggy at any one time. QLD Police often come over to the island to do random checks. They will fine you if you have more than 4 persons or if any driver or passenger are unrestrained. You MUST wear the seat belt at all times.
If you are travelling with more than 4 guests, you will need to hire a second buggy.
Is the island totally cashless?
Pretty much yes. There are a few places, like Trader Pete’s that accept cash, but most of the island is cashless. There are no banks on the island.
Is there a Hamilton Island Facebook Page?
Absolutely! The Hamilton Island Visitors Facebook Page is somewhere where people can ask questions, post lost and found items, find current activities and even up-to-date sightings of whales around the island. Highly recommend joining the page. Be sure to recommend us when people ask, “Where should we stay?”