Reef View Hotel

Housed in a 19-story building, the Reef View Hotel stands out on this island of low-rise properties. It is a slightly aging hotel that could use some updating, but views of the sea from many spots around the hotel are outstanding. With nearly 400 rooms, the atmosphere here stays busy, with people milling about and coming and going in the large, open lobby. The lounge is a popular hangout spot, as is the outdoor pool, and guests have access to the pools at this hotel's sister resorts. The Reef View isn't fancy, but it provides a reliable spot for many families, couples, and groups vacationing on Hamilton Island. That's especially true for travelers who plan on spending most of their time outdoors exploring. Business guests attending events at the nearby conference center also occasionally pass through the hotel. 

This hotel is situated across the road from Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island. Behind the hotel is a steep forested hillside, and the road is quiet except for the occasional electric buggy zipping by. It's about a 50-meter walk from the hotel entrance to the beach, and there are several restaurants and bars within walking distance. Guests can walk to Hamilton Island Marina on the other side of the island in about 10 minutes, or they can take the free shuttle. The Hamilton Island Airport is about five minutes away by car. 

Rooms and suites are spacious, although rather plain, with white and medium-toned wood furniture, white walls, and white bed linens. Beach-themed art hangs on the walls. It's a look that will do the trick, and has a pleasantly modern veneer, even if some of the furniture is just a touch tired. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, minibars, kettles for tea and coffee, old iPod docks, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, safes, and furnished balconies or terraces. Some look out on the beautiful Coral Sea, and others face the gardens. Bathrooms are plain, with separate tubs and showers, toiletries, and hairdryers. Suites have separate sitting areas, kitchenettes, and dining areas. Suite bathrooms are more upmarket, with marble surfaces and jetted tubs. Family Rooms with two queen-size and two twin beds are available. The Presidential Suite has its own plunge pool plus an outdoor area for grilling. 

The Reef View Hotel offers most everything needed for a pleasant vacation on beautiful Hamilton Island. Guests staying more than four nights get breakfast for free at the Pool Terrace Restaurant. Selections include hot and cold items, plus juices, coffee, and tea. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, and there's a casual lounge with wicker seating in the lobby that serves drinks and light fare. It can get busy. Children stay and eat for free.

The long outdoor pool is surrounded by palm trees on two sides and buildings on the other. Lounge chairs are lined up on the deck, but there are no umbrellas since the trees and buildings provide shade. An adjacent lawn has picnic tables for alfresco dining. Guests can also use the pools at this hotel's sister resorts. Non-motorized water sports are free and include sailing, wind-surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Tennis is also available, as is mini-golf and an arcade.

Guests receive access to a nearby fitness center that's well-equipped with cardio and weight training machines, as well as a spa, sauna, and beauty salon. A business center on the second level overlooking the lobby provides computers and a printer for guests to use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Laundry facilities are coin-operated. A free shuttle takes guests anywhere they want to go on the island.