Rob Watson

Review of qualia, Hamilton Island

Just completed a 4 night stay. It was okay. Not re...

Just completed a 4 night stay. It was okay. Not reflective of the price. We arrived a little after 2:30 starving. Check in was long. We were told lunch was being served at pebble beach until 3:30. The check in person made us wait while he did our bookings. We asked to go eat while he was doing our bookings. Nope. We arrived at the restaurant at 3:20 only to be told it was now closed. Ugh. Had to go find some place else to eat. So annoying. Room was a good size and comfortable but they were very misleading on the view. We booked a Lee pavilion that is advertised as south west sun and ocean view with sunset viewing. It was completely blocked by vegetation. Very dark room with no sun. A sliver of a water view. Food and beverages are outrageously priced for the quality. Breakfast is decent. They have fantastic granola. Had lunch a few times. They dont list all ingredients on the menu. The burger has a terrible bbq sauce all over it that is not listed on the menu. My daughter had mentioned she does not like mayo or bananas and they included me on that list. Not sure why. I love mayonnaise and was devastated our packed lunch for a beach day was mayo free. Pool is good. They do seem to be short staffed as long waits for drinks at the pool and restaurants. At lunch one day my food arrived before the glass of wine I ordered long before. At dinner one night they sat us in the lounge while they got the table ready. We never did get a table. I ordered a glass of champagne that the host took away before I was done. Very frustrating. We left and went and ate a mediocre pizza at the marina. On the last day I asked about the time to head to the airport. She advise 12:45. I said I would clear up my bill while I am here then go pack up and get ready to be back at
12:45. I stopped in the boutique before walking back to our room to shower etc. When I returned to our room there was about 5 people cleaning the room. They had thrown out a 40$ razor. I never got to shower. They actually accused me of being in the wrong room ? Property is lovely. Buggy is a great perk but I think you can do better. We will definitely go back to Hamilton Island but will pass staying at this property.