If you’ve been trying to tick off a wish list that reads “spectacular views, superb service, great food” for your honeymoon or destination wedding, then there’s somewhere on your doorstep (yes, just a few hours away) that checks those boxes and more.

Just a short plane and boat ride from Australia’s Eastern states, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort is having a resurgence of epic proportions.

From the moment you step off the plane, you are whisked onto a luxury yacht (yes, we said boat before but we were just teasing - nothing you do at Hayman Island is in half measures), your bags get taken by porters, champagne placed in one hand and a canapé in the other. This relaxing sea trip to the island takes in the views of the Whitsundays, and if you didn’t know what was at the other end, you might never want to get off.

The rooms at InterContinental Hayman Island Resort are generous and luxurious, and you can choose from a variety of options in the beachfront Pavilions, Pool Wing, Beach Wing and Hayman Residences. We stayed in the One-Bedroom Suite (pictured below) with direct pool access to the iconic hexagon pool, where you step out of your room and dip your toe in the water from your balcony. Then swim straight back up with just a few steps to bed for an afternoon siesta (bliss)!

Breakfast is included in all packages, and the buffet is the best we’ve ever seen, with everything you could want (and then some). Opt for a casual meal at the stylish and relaxing Aqua for lunch. Dinner serves up so many different options. There’s the signature restaurant Pacific with its seasonal menu, Mediterranean restaurant Amici and the Asian fusion menu at Bam Bam.

If you’re looking for something a little more special for your honeymoon, then the resort arranges private beach dining (where your table and toes are touching the sand) called Under the Stars (pictured below left). Or if you’re not keen on being right on the beach, they can locate your table amidst the beautiful Oriental Gardens.

As honeymoons go, there are so many things for couples to do. Don’t forget you’re in the heart of the Whitsundays and right on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Snorkelling, diving, or just cruising in a boat to see this natural wonder can all be arranged. You can also go fishing or visit Whitehaven Beach.

And when it is time to really relax (and we mean really), the Spa has a full range of beauty and spa treatments and different types of massage on offer that you will not be disappointed. You can book in as a couple or on your own.

So here’s the big dilemma…do you choose InterContinental Hayman Island Resort as your honeymoon destination and keep it all to yourself, or do you have your destination wedding there and share this beauty and luxury with all your friends and family?

Close to home and so much easier to get to for family members (as well as the accommodation, food and overall vibe we’ve already filled you in on), it’s difficult not to look at this picturesque location as the perfect wedding destination. – InterContinental Hayman Island Resort has a beautiful chapel with views of the Whitsundays or stunning gardens with ocean backdrops for your ceremony. The resort’s wedding team can arrange everything from a celebrant to flowers, styling and even use of their luxury wedding cars. The food will be something guests are talking about for years to come, and with the option of hosting pre-wedding and post-wedding celebrations, you can make the most of your festivities.

Just like a honeymoon, a wedding here would be nothing short of spectacular.

Email hayman.weddings@ihg.com

Phone +617 4940 1234