qualia on Hamilton Island has been selected for 50 Best Discovery, the curated global guide from the organisation behind The World’s 50 Best rankings for restaurants, bars, hotels and vineyards.
Set on the northern-most tip of Hamilton Island in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, qualia comprises just 60 private pavilions, complemented by exclusive use retreats The Beach House and The Residence.
“We are honoured to be included in 50 Best Discovery alongside some of the world’s most exceptional hospitality experiences,” qualia general manager Rebecca Hamey said. “Nearly two decades after qualia first welcomed guests, this recognition is a testament to the enduring appeal of this extraordinary place, our privileged position in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and, above all, the dedication of our passionate team, whose commitment to creating deeply personal experiences continues to resonate with guests from around the world.”
qualia’ selection for 50 Best Discovery builds on a run of global recognition, including Condé Nast Traveller’s coveted Triple Crown in 2026, with honours in the publication’s Gold List, Readers’ Choice Awards and Spa Awards, as well as the award of a MICHELIN Key in 2025.
Now in its 41st year, Hamilton Island Race Week returns to the Whitsundays from 15-22 August, bringing together world-class sailing, acclaimed chefs, Olympic athletes and premium lifestyle brands against the spectacular backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef.
50 Best Discovery helps discerning travellers discover exceptional restaurants, bars, hotels and vineyards around the world. More than 3,000 Academy members, including travel journalists, hoteliers and travellers, vote for the venues featured on the platform.
As an extension of the globally recognised The World’s 50 Best family of brands, 50 Best Discovery showcases exceptional hospitality experiences selected by the industry’s leading experts.
Race week is next
“Hamilton Island Race Week continues to attract sailors, spectators and holidaymakers from across Australia and around the world,” Hamilton Island chief operating officer Renae Trimble said. “With more than 170 boats already entered and tickets to the onshore program now on sale, we’re looking forward to welcoming competitors, spectators and holidaymakers back to Hamilton Island for another memorable Race Week this August.”
While the racing remains at the heart of the event, Hamilton Island Race Week has evolved into one of Australia’s most sought-after sporting and lifestyle experiences, with a week-long calendar of dining, entertainment and exclusive events. Highlights of the 2026 program, include:
- Long Lunch with Josh Niland and Khanh Ong presented by American Express at Niland’s Catseye Pool Club
- In Conversation with Olympic silver medallist Olivia Price and America’s Cup sailor Cole Tapper at Bommie Restaurant
- The Kylie Minogue Wines Garden Party at Beach Pavilion
- The Tanqueray Supper Club at Romano’s
- The Race Day Long Lunch on the Keel Deck
- Spectator Cruises on Superyacht Rascal
