You’d be forgiven for assuming Hamilton Island Race Week is all about the races, but if sailing isn't your thing, you could easily fill your week without even locking eyes on a spinnaker.
Hamilton Island Race Week 2025, presented by American Express, is marking a massive 40th year, with an exciting line up of island activities and experiences in addition to the main event.
According to Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling, “It’s about celebrating everything that makes Hamilton Island so special—world-class experiences, a vibrant food and wine scene, and the incredible atmosphere Race Week brings to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.”
Ready to hit the deck? These are our top reasons to make a trip to Hamilton Island Race Week.
Kick Things Off With A Beachside Garden Party
It's only right to ring in race week with a bash on the beach. This year's theme is garden party—think sipping and swanning under palm trees while dressed to impress.
There’ll be bubbles on arrival, gourmet grazing stations and flowing beer and wine. Whether you're catching up with the crew or making new mates, expect sunshine, tunes and non-stop good vibes to keep you going for race week.
THE DETAILS
When: 12pm–4pm, 17 August
Where: Beach Pavilion, overlooking Catseye Beach
Cost: $180 per person
For more information, head here.
Get A Front Row Seat To The Action
You don’t have to be a sailor to take in the thrill of the water. Step aboard the 130ft Italian marvel Impulsive Superyacht for a front row seat to the action, where you’ll cruise for two hours with a glass of champagne in one hand and a tasty canapé in the other.
THE DETAILS
When: 10am–12pm, 17 August, 1pm–3pm, 19 August, 1pm–3pm, 22 August
Where: Departs from Hamilton Island Marina
Cost: $280 per person
For more information, head here.
Sip Gin Cocktails At An Italian Coastal Dinner
Settle into the warm and welcoming Romano’s Restaurant for a night of ocean views and bold seaside flavours inspired by the Amalfi. Your two Italian-inspired courses will be paired with a selection of Tanqueray London Dry Gin tipples: think classic G&Ts and creative cocktails that’ll take you by surprise.
THE DETAILS
When: 6pm–9pm, 19 August
Where: Romano’s Restaurant, Front St
Cost: $220 per person
For more information, head here.
Spend The Arvo On A Superyacht
What’s a week away without a little R&R? Lay day's the perfect excuse to hit pause, and the legends behind the Impulsive Superyacht are stepping in to help you do it. Hop aboard from Whitehaven Beach, and kick back on a luxe superyacht anchored just off the sand. Soak up the sunshine, sip on flowing drinks and graze your way through platters and canapes. Just what the doctor ordered.
THE DETAILS
When: 10am–4pm, 20 August
Where: Whitehaven Beach
Cost: $300 per person
For more information, head here.
Taste Decadent Drops With A Winemaker
Award-winning winemaker Larry Cherubino—the brains behind Cherubino Wines and the Robert Oatley—is offering a rare chance to explore Australia’s diverse terroir. Alongside ten tastings, Bommie's Ryan Locke will plate up perfect pairings for snacking along the way. The best part? You’ll also get to take home a bottle from the Oatley cellar.
THE DETAILS
When: 11am–1pm, 21 August
Where: Bommie Restaurant, Front St
Cost: $90 per person
For more information, head here.
Dine On A Seasonal Menu Under The Stars
It's not just dinner, it's a barefoot feast on the beach. With Chef Alanna Sapwell-Stone in the kitchen and WHIPBIRD wines in your glass, this intimate night under the stars is pure magic.
While you dine, sip and savour, winemaker Larry Cherubino will share stories and the BTS details of his craft. Then spend the rest of the night taking in the stunning scenes of Catseye Beach, chatting with your neighbours and soaking up island time.
THE DETAILS
When: 6pm–10pm, 21 August
Where: Catseye Beach
Cost: $350 per person
For more information, head here.
Ready to head to Hamilton Island? Find more Race Week fun here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Hamilton Island and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Images: Supplied.