From its original settlement by the Ngaro Aboriginal tribe, to its visit by Captain Cook in 1770, and evolution as a tourist destination in the 1970s and 1980s, Hamilton Island has had a long and interesting history. The island was purchased by renowned Australian winemaker, Bob Oatley, in 2003, and since then, it has become one of the world's leading holiday destinations.

While there is an abundance of restaurants, bars, and resorts on Hamilton Island, only a third of the island is developed, meaning the rest remains in its pristine, natural state. There are more than a dozen walking trails through which guests can explore the island.

Every year, the Oatley family invests millions of dollars in improving the accommodation, infrastructure, and services available on Hamilton Island. This includes ensuring that waste is disposed of in the most environmentally-friendly manner and is reused wherever possible, as well as making sure power sources are utilized in the most efficient way.