Are you enjoying a sunny holiday in far north Queensland? Perhaps you’re a local looking for a little getaway. A Weekend on Magnetic Island is the perfect short break.
If a weekend on Magnetic Island sounds like just what you’re after then check out the itinerary below, made up of all our top things to do and places to dine.
The team at Magnetic Island Online all pitched in with their personal favourites, and it resulted in one brilliant collection of holiday goodies! Turn a simple weekend on Magnetic Island into a dream shortstay trip that will make you the envy of everyone you know.
Getting there
There’s only one true way to get to Magnetic Island, and that is on a breathtaking ferry ride from Townsville. Your magical weekend on the island begins by soaking up views of blue water and beautiful sealife.
Where to stay…
The bay you choose as home base really comes down to your weekend goals. Are you looking for a quiet, romantic hideaway, or hoping to take advantage of the pristine water and long list of activities ready to be enjoyed?
For those looking for romance, we suggest Peppers Blue on Blue Resort (Nelly Bay), a Picnic Bay Chalet, or a little isolated spot such as Sunbird Retreat (Horseshoe Bay).
After something close to the fun and activities with a communal vibe? Try out Bungalow Bay Koala Village, which is close to the activity hub that is Horseshoe Bay and puts you right in the middle of the action.
For family-friendly accommodation with a resort feel, check out Amaroo on Mandalay, the best of all worlds.
Alternatively, if you are travelling with friends and looking to party, The Base Backpackers might be your best spot to land for the weekend!
Friday Night
We’re starting with Friday night because, well, that’s when the weekend really begins. Our top pick for the opening night of your weekend escape is a gourmet meal made with fresh local produce and served with that signature Maggie Island hospitality. Top it off with a beer, wine, cocktail, or three…
This one was a tough choice, but for late night licensed dining, we recommend one of the following:
Sandi’s on Magnetic Island (Horseshoe Bay) for a selection of mouthwatering seafood, or
Noodies on the Beach (Horseshoe Bay) for a Mexican feast in a secluded setting.
Up the Garden Path @ Amaroo on Mandalay (Nelly Bay) for great cuisine and cocktails in a family-friendly setting.
Saturday
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at one of the many cafés and bakeries scattered around the island. To be honest, it is too difficult to choose from all the options – whatever you choose you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re going to hire one of Magnetic Island’s iconic topless cars for a day, this is the day to do it! Nelly Bay is the main spot for car hire, as it is the location of the ferry terminal. Getting around in a topless car will enhance your entire experience of the island.
Next on your list is the tour of Bungalow Bay Koala Park, as you immerse yourself in nature and get close and personal with the wildlife. Cuddle a koala, pat a lizard, and chat with the birds… this is a memory you’ll take back home with you forever.
Peckish? Grab a late lunch or early dinner at Bungalow Bay’s bar, which serves some of the best pizza we’ve ever had! Soak up the atmosphere while you eat, as you may catch people dancing and enjoying music while they sip on boutique beers and wonderful wines.
During your travels, it is worth stopping to explore some of the walking tracks, which will take you across the network of bays around the island’s eastern coast.
In particular, check out the Magnetic Island Forts Walk, a 4km return walk that lets you discover WWII forts that are listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. It is also the best way to see Northern Australia’s largest population of koalas in the wild.
Sunday
Head out early and enjoy the gorgeous Magnetic Island water via a snorkel trail. These tours are renowned with locals and visitors alike. Choose from the Nelly Bay or Geoffrey Bay snorkel trails, where you can check out brilliant corals, colourful marine life, and even the Moltke wreck in Geoffrey Bay, a German passenger and cargo ship that was deliberately sunk off the coast of Magnetic Island in 1911.
Not a keen snorkeller? Perhaps a kayak or spot of fishing is more your style!
Spend the afternoon lazing on the beach or by the pool, letting the sun wash over you as you relax before heading home from your amazing weekend.
If you only have a few days up your sleeve, a weekend on Magnetic Island is the ideal place to be. Head over to our online directory for more information and to start booking your trip.
