the place

Hamilton Island is the crowning jewel in the glistening Whitsundays; the launching pad to the Great Barrier Reef and world famous Whitehaven Beach. With direct flights into nearby Proserpine or onto the Island itself; getting here is a breeze and with endless accomodation options, it truly is a dream destination.

Surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the Whitsundays is a water wonderland that has plenty of active options, as well as countless nooks to settle in and soak up the sun, consume a book - or a delicious meal - and truly getaway. The trail scene is continuing to evolve and provide a mix of experiences that sure to delight all the senses with amazing vistas, lush forest, secluded beaches, opportunities for some vert and of course plenty of pools and beaches to recover in which helps create a unique trail running holiday. 

As far as trail running holidays we don’t think you’ll find a more stunning location. With all the comforts of an Island resort, the conveniences of a small town including an IGA supermarket and numerous dining options; you’ll find the right mix of comfort and exploring your amazing tropical playground! 

the RACES

HILLY HALF: 24km / ELEVATION GAIN 850m+ / individual or relay EVENTS/ JUNIOR RACES 

The Hamilton Island Hilly Half* Marathon gives you a challenging event in one of Australia’s most idyllic locations. With the event now 95% off road including magnificent trail to some of the most stunning vistas in the world, this is an event like no other. Based out of the Hamilton Island Resort; the race mantra of ‘Race Hard, Recover Harder’ is hard to ignore with countless places to park post race to reflect and reward yourself! *it’s actually 24km nowadays as the trail network has expanded!

More than a race, the 2024 weekend includes a FREE screening of ‘Lucy’s Dad’ and a Q&A with trail running royalty Lucy Bartholomew and her Dad Ash. Arrive Friday and add another parkrun to your list, clinics, recovery runs and a choice of dozens of fun activities; everything from visits to the Great Barrier Reef and/or Whitehaven Beach, go-karting, para-sailing, sailing, snorkelling, spa and beauty treatments and of course; retail therapy - or you could choose to do nothing!

See the event website for full event details

GREAT WHITEHAVEN BEACH RUN : 21km / 10KM/ 5km / 500m & 1.5KM JUNIOR RACES 

Whitehaven Beach is consistently voted one of the top ten beaches in the world… and it’s not hard to see why! The race is always run at low tide so it’s predominantly hard sand and good underfoot. The stunning white silica sand is a terrific backdrop for the various events and its a bucket list item you need to tick off! Come in early and sneak a different parkrun experience in and enjoy the countless activities. Post race sees you return to glorious Hamilton Island where you can spend the evening enjoying live music in the Marina and ‘rehydrating’ and the recovery run on Monday morning will take you out on the unrivalled single trails to the Island’s most stunning locations!

See the event website for full event details

the TOURS

HILLY HALF: RACE PACKAGE.

The Hamilton Island Endurance Series Race Package includes:

• Accommodation at the Reef View Hotel (other hotel style and holiday home options are available)

• Full breakfast daily

• Return airport/marina transfers

• Use of catamarans, windsurfers, kayaks, stand up paddleboards and snorkelling equipment

• Use of Island Shuttle

• Use of gym, spa, sauna & tennis court hire

• Kids Stay and Eat Free^

• FREE wireless internet

Cost: $459 per person twin share (2 night stay)/$432 pp p/n (3 night stay) or $405 pp p/n (5 night stay). Alternate durations can be organised at discounted rates for event participants. Please note, event registration is not included in package price. Call Hamilton Island Holidays on 137 333 and ask for The Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon Special.

register your interest now