There might be 74 islands in The Whitsundays, but there’s something about Hayman Island that catapults it right to the top of the list. This place is paradise on earth—with warm tropical waters to dive into, endless coral reefs to explore, adventure at every turn, and luxury digs to sink into at the end of each day—it’s unmatched luxury that will leave you both refreshed and invigorated. Let’s look at some of Hayman’s highlights.
You can’t talk about Hayman Island without instantly thinking of the incredible natural wonder that is the Great Barrier Reef—a diverse marine wonderland and the largest living structure on earth.
Comprising beautiful coral reefs, unspoiled islands, and sandy corals cays, it provides protective homes for thousands of sea creatures. More than that, it guards coastlines against extreme weather, purifies the ocean waters, absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and offers the best snorkelling and diving experiences on the planet.
A vast, complex, living network, the Great Barrier Reef stretches over 2,300 kilometres along Australia’s eastern coast, from Cape York in the north of Queensland, to Bundaberg in the south. Covering 348,000 square kilometres, the Great Barrier Reef comprises almost 3,000 individual coral reefs and 900 islands and is visible from space. To give you an idea of scale, the entire reef system is roughly the same size as Germany.
Added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1981, the Great Barrier Reef contains greater biodiversity than any other World Heritage site. The reef is home to about 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, 4000 species of mollusc, 240 species of bird, 134 species of sharks and rays, 30 species of marine mammal including whales, dolphins and the vulnerable dugong, and 6 species of sea turtle.
Sadly, it is a well-known fact that the Great Barrier Reef is under threat. Global warming poses the biggest risk to the reef, but other factors such as shipping, coastal development, tourism, and crown-of-thorn starfish outbreaks also play a part.
Thankfully, huge efforts are being made to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Conservation is the main aim of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and the Australian Government has made reef protection one of their top priorities. With commitments to decrease sediment runoff from the mainland, long-term sustainability plans, and a $200 million yearly investment in the reef, the Queensland and Australian Government are not taking the health of this ecosystem lightly.
The Great Barrier Reef truly is one of the most surreal and enchanting places in the world. Watching vibrant fish dart in and out of a sprawling network of corals and anemones is a sight like no other. And while tourism can put a strain on the Reef, it also contributes to its protection, so when you experience this natural wonder for yourself, you’ll be playing a part in preserving this spectacular marine ecosystem.
rejoice
While the crystal-clear blue water surrounding Hayman Island is certainly a showstopper—there’s loads to do on land as well.
The resort’s on-island experiences range from nature-bound walking trails, immersive wildlife tours, fish feeding, cultural weaving classes and a curated collection of sports and fitness activities including yoga, tennis lessons, state-of-the-art golf simulator and more.
Hayman Island’s two-hour Walking Trail is 7.8km (4.85 miles) total, beginning at the marina and finishing at the bottom of Hayman Residences. The shaded gullies of the trail see guests hike around the perimeter of the island via Blue Pearl Bay, Dolphin Point and Butterfly Grove, passing through native forests of Whitsunday Kurrajong, Wattle, Eucalyptus and Moreton Bay Ash as they go. Bushwalking experience is recommended as the tracks can be long, rough and very steep.
Animal lovers will delight in the complimentary nature walk, an insightful guided tour around the resort, where guests can observe an array of Hayman Island’s local wildlife including Wallabies, Cockatoos, Kookaburras Rainbow Lorikeets, Stone Curlews and more.
Or for those who fancy indulging their competitive side, the Island’s recreational centre offers a range of exciting sport and recreational activities. The recreation centre is located behind the main resort building opposite the formal gardens with activities including tennis courts, squash courts, basketball, croquet, soccer, bocce, pool and foosball.
So, if you fancy a day out of the water… there’s plenty at Hayman Island to keep you entertained.
paradise
Characterised by a sub-tropical climate, Hayman Island enjoys beautiful year-round temperatures, but what will be in store for us in September? Well, we’ve got good news.
It’s still comfortably warm in September, with temperatures reaching as high as 26 degrees Celsius and as low as a very tolerable 19.2 degrees, so it doesn’t quite reach the tropical atmosphere of the summer months that bring with them higher temperatures (we promise you won’t miss the increased humidity). You’ll also have the benefit of avoiding the region’s annual stinger season.
However, the big drawcard for September are the beautiful blue skies, as it is generally the month with the least amount of rain. This means you’ll be able to make the most of all the things to see and do in the region. This is most definitely a good thing, as the sheer variety of things to see and do in the Whitsundays is staggering and limited only by how much free time you have.
So, grab your sunhat, slather on some sunblock, and make the most of it!
