Bay to Base 2027 is a fully supported adventure walk across Magnetic Island on Saturday 17 April 2027, starting at Picnic Bay and finishing at the Arcadia Village Hotel in Arcadia. Choose a 12km, 17km or 23km Magnetic Island walk through the island’s trails, coastal lookouts and tropical bushland – and help raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia while you’re at it.
Run by Destination Adventure, Bay to Base is not a race – it’s about getting out on the trails, taking in the views and enjoying the day at your own pace. Hydration and fruit stations are provided along the way, and the walk wraps up with a finish-line celebration and an after party with live music in Arcadia from 11am. Numbers are strictly limited, so it pays to register early.
Event Details at a Glance
What: Bay to Base supported adventure walk – 12km, 17km or 23km
When: Saturday 17 April 2027
Start times: 23km – 6:45am; 17km – 7:00am and 7:15am waves; 12km – 7:45am and 8:00am
Where: Starts at Picnic Bay (The Esplanade, Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island QLD 4819) and finishes at the Arcadia Village Hotel, Marine Parade, Arcadia QLD 4819
Cost: 23km $95.70; 17km adult $88.00; 12km adult $79.20; 12km child $52.50 (AUD, incl. GST)
Registrations: Online via
Race Roster – registrations listed as open until 22 March
Organiser: Destination Adventure – info@destinationadventure.com.au
Charity: $5 from every entry goes to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia
Suitable for: Walkers of all levels – a child entry is available for the 12km course
Getting There & What to Expect
SeaLink ferries run between Townsville and the Nelly Bay ferry terminal on Magnetic Island. On the day, chartered buses take walkers from the Nelly Bay ferry terminal to the start line at Picnic Bay, and back from Arcadia to Nelly Bay after the finish. Bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and a refillable water bottle – the island trails can be warm and exposed, even in April.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bay to Base a running race?
No – it’s a supported adventure walk, not a race. You can walk the course at your own pace.
Which Magnetic Island walk distance should I choose?
There are three options – 12km, 17km and 23km – so you can pick the distance that suits your fitness.
How do I get to the start at Picnic Bay?
Chartered buses run from the Nelly Bay ferry terminal to Picnic Bay, and from the Arcadia finish back to Nelly Bay.
Who benefits from the event?
$5 from every entry is donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia.
Details may change – please confirm with Destination Adventure before attending.
