Palm Bay Resort

The staff were a real highlight. They were generally helpful, the chefs made high-quality food, and housekeeping worked quickly and carefully. Prices seemed reasonable by the usual Whitsundays hotel and restaurant standards. The grounds, garden and pool were peaceful and very well kept. The rooms need a deep clean and maintenance. Other reviews mention mould and poor cleanliness, and we think the underlying issue is built-up dust, rust and mould over time. Facilities have also declined since the new owners took over. The tennis court can’t be used, and without a BBQ or a well-stocked guest food shop like the old owners provided, it’s hard to recommend staying beyond two nights. You can quickly run out of restaurant dishes you want to order. We had plenty of praise for the staff, but the rooms weren’t up to standard. We added photos mainly to draw management’s attention to the maintenance problems. There’s a lot of potential here, but our stay left plenty to be desired.

The bungalows by the beach are cute, and the gardens are full of lovely wildlife, including lots of wallabies. It isn’t a fancy five-star place, but it has what you need, and the staff are fantastic and always happy to help. The whole place has a relaxed feel. This was my second stay with a group of friends, and we all want to return. It’s ideal for a short break if you live nearby. We like exploring the island walks, playing cards and games by the pool with a cocktail, then having a sensational dinner in the restaurant. Do yourself a favour and book a night or two!

Sunset at the beach bar is the thing to make time for, it’s really something else. You can kayak, snorkel, relax by the pool or beach, or read in a hammock. This is an incredible location and a very underrated resort, with a more laid-back, low-key feel than others on the island. Some rooms are a little run down, but still nice, and the staff are fab. There’s as much or as little to do as you want.

Snorkelling right out front was spectacular, with so many fish, turtles and coral, and the resort lends out equipment for free. Reception can book tours to Whitehaven beach, and jetski tours leave directly from the island. There’s plenty to do here, and the staff were consistently friendly and helpful. It’s a perfect little tropical island getaway. We’ll definitely be back in the near future.