Buggy Hire On Hamilton Island - Ultimate Guide + FAQs
Hamilton Island is a dazzling destination in the Whitsundays of Queensland, Australia. Local Aussies and international travellers alike flock here for getaways full of relaxation, upscale resorts, unique wildlife, and tropical nature.
During your stay on Hamilton Island, there are many beaches, viewpoints, and local attractions to check out. While much of the island can be explored on foot, many travellers like to hire a buggy on Hamilton Island so they can cover more ground.
Your Ultimate Guide To Buggy Hire On Hamilton Island, Whitsundays
Here is our complete guide to buggy hire on Hamilton Island so you know what to expect. We will cover popular FAQs, how to book your buggy, and whether or not you actually need one.
Every traveller is different, so use this guide as inspiration and reach out to our team if you have further questions! You can also view our full list of articles about Hamilton Island for more ideas and inspiration.
Do I need to hire a buggy on Hamilton Island?
You do not need to hire a buggy on Hamilton Island if you just want to explore on foot, but buggies allow you to travel further (and give your feet a break).
Hamilton Island buggies are basically just electric golf carts that seat 4 people and make it easier to get around. Hamilton Island is quite hilly, and it is a car-free island. For travellers who prefer not to walk everywhere, or who just want the ability to kick back and explore the island on wheels, buggy hire is an amazing option!
The best ways to get around Hamilton Island
Visitors to Hamilton Island can get around on foot, by buggy, or by using the island shuttle bus. Hamilton Island is relatively small at just 7.53 km², and much of the island is national park. Most of the hotels and attractions are centrally located near the Hamilton Island Marina, so everything is easily accessible.
Free Island Shuttle
The island shuttle bus can conveniently transport you between hotels, the airport, the marina, and other key attractions with ease. Use of the island shuttle is often included in your resort stay, so many travellers choose to explore on foot and take the shuttle for longer distances.
This can really come in handy if you are staying on Hamilton Island for multiple days and you have luggage.
Walking
Hamilton Island is also very safe and easy to explore on foot. If you are visiting on just a day trip from Airlie Beach, you can easily arrive at the marina and walk to everything nearby.
If you want to walk to some further beaches and hiking trails away from the main town centre, just be prepared with good walking shoes and lots of water!
Buggy Hire
Buggy hire is the perfect option for travellers who prefer a bit more flexibility. Rather than waiting for the island shuttle bus or trekking long distances, you can hire a buggy for your chosen time frame and hop around the island at your leisure.
How do I hire a buggy on Hamilton Island?
You can reserve a buggy for your stay on Hamilton Island by contacting the reservations team at Hamilton Island Resort or visiting their website. You can also book one in person when you arrive on the island, though advance booking is recommended.
The buggy operating hours are:
- Monday - Saturday: 8.00am - 5.00pm
- Sunday: 9.00am – 5.00pm
How far in advance should I book?
As with most accommodations and tours in the Whitsundays, book as far in advance as you can! Especially on public holidays, school holidays, or peak season, things can sell out quickly as Hamilton Island is a popular destination.
We recommend booking your Hamilton Island tours, hotels, and buggy hire at least a few weeks or months in advance. If you do have to book last-minute there is still a chance of availability, but the risk of things selling out increases the longer you wait.
How much does buggy hire on Hamilton Island cost?
Buggy hire costs vary depending on your time frame and whether you need any extras like child restraints. Here is an overview of the current costs (prices subject to change without notice).
- 4 hour rental - $95
- 24 hour rental - $135
What are the requirements for hiring a buggy?
Though Hamilton Island buggies are just electric golf carts, they are still considered vehicles under QLD law. That means you must be at least 21 years old to hire a buggy, and you must have a valid license to drive. You also have to abide by any other standard driving laws, such as wearing a seatbelt and not driving under the influence.
Other FAQs about driving a buggy on Hamilton Island
How many people does a Hamilton Island buggy fit?
Hamilton Island buggies fit 4 people. There are two forward-facing seats and two backward-facing seats. if you have a bigger group, you may need to hire more than one buggy!
Can we add child seats or restraints?
You can add child restraints to your buggy if you book in advance! These are subject to availability and may cost extra, so just enquire upon booking about any add-ons for children.
How long does the buggy charge last?
Hamilton Island's electric buggies can last for a few hours, depending on your driving speed. They can generally last for around 3-4 hours of nonstop driving, which is plenty for the small area of Hamilton Island.
It takes about 6 hours to fully charge a buggy.
Where should I go on Hamilton Island with a buggy?
Because Hamilton Island has no cars, all of the roads are suitable for buggies! Just look at the island on a map and you can basically drive wherever you want. There are some national park areas, beaches, and hiking trails that are only accessible on foot, but you can get to most Hamilton Island attractions with your buggy.
Here are the most popular spots to visit on Hamilton Island with a buggy:
- Catseye Beach - Popular spot for water sports and swimming
- One Tree Hill - Bustling hilltop bar with sunset views
- Whitsunday Boulevard - Scenic drive with views of resorts and ocean
- Marina Village - Main hub full of shops and eateries
- Hamilton Island Wildlife - Sanctuary full of unique animals
See our list of the 15 best things to do on Hamilton Island for more ideas!
Complete your stay on Hamilton Island with the best hotels and tours
Once you have planned your buggy hire, make sure the rest of your Hamilton Island trip is planned in advance! This will give you a seamless experience on the island, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the Whitsundays without any last-minute scrambling.
Contact our Whitsundays travel experts for personalised advice and the best deals on local tours. You can book excursions from Hamilton Island to Whitehaven Beach, the Great Barrier Reef, and more! Or book sunset sails, private charters, dinner cruises, scuba diving, and any activity your heart desires.
Our team can also help you book the best accommodation on Hamilton Island!
Explore the Whitsundays with tours departing Hamilton Island!
