So the live music finished at 10pm again, but the Zumba classes took their place and started at 7am.  We were up and about anyway, as we had a bus and a boat to catch.  The bus was late, but we arrived at Shute Harbour in good time to check in for our short crossing to Long Island.  I could spot our rental house high up on a hill which overlooks the Whitsundays – we’ll be back there for a few nights before we come home.

At 11am the shallow-bottomed boat, carrying a mix of resort guests and day trippers, beached on the small crescent of sand which fronts Palm Bay Resort. We could see a row of little villas dotted amongst palm trees.  As new arrivals we were given a welcome drink, then told they would call us when our room was ready.  Meanwhile we were free to explore, have lunch, and use the facilities – though we were laden down with various bags full of food and drinks so we weren’t able to do much.

We settled in to watch boats come and go, and to observe the various techniques employed by novice stand up paddle boarders – taking notes in case we decide to have a go at it ourselves.  The water was calm and sparkling blue, and we soon felt ourselves relaxing. 

There are no cooking facilities for us here, so we have to eat in the island’s only restaurant.  Ian negotiated a gluten free club sandwich, while I opted for fish and chips.  Both meals were excellent (as were our dinners).

Still with an hour to go, we wandered around the resort – nothing is more than a minute’s walk from anything else. Even the “other” side of the island is just a few metres away – but it was much windier over there so we didn’t linger.

Finally we got our key and let ourselves into our “Ocean Villa”.  It’s very small but well designed and comfortable – and yes, we have a gorgeous ocean view.  There are so many places to sit and look at it – inside our room looking out through the glass door; outside on our little balcony; in our hammock (surprisingly comfy); on a lounge chair on the beach; beside the pool; in the Sunset Bar; or on one of the numerous swings which have been strategically positioned for those picturesque/quirky Instagram photos.

After unpacking a bit and testing the hammock, we wandered along the beach. Although there are fewer than 50 guests here, there is constant entertainment to be had, simply people watching.  We also met several shy wallabies and saw a variety of birds and butterflies.

As the sun dropped below the hills, we were treated to a show of colours – soft yellow turning to glistening gold, then pink-purple-blue, and finally a gorgeous glowing red. Who needs TV …

So far, so good.  Tomorrow there are walks to do, and maybe some afternoon kayaking (if no-one is watching). Tennis looks too energetic.  The pool is unfortunately way too cold for swimming in.  Sitting on a swing or in a hammock, reading a book and watching the water, sounds enticing.  We’ve never really had a “chill out” holiday like this; after 3 days will we be wanting more, or be eager to move on?