Discover Magnetic Island
Gorgeous beaches, tropical weather and a fascinating back story make up Magnetic Island. Travelling down the east coast of Australia? Stop and discover Magnetic Island.
Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, it’s easy to discover Magnetic Island. Enjoy a day trip or stay for a week. There’s an abundance of activities and plenty of accommodation options to suit every need and budget.
Discover Magnetic Island – just a mere 30 minute boat ride away. You’ll feel like you’re in a different world though. Instantly feel relaxed the minute you step off the ferry. It’s an island where people are truly relaxed.
Getting there
Townsville is about halfway between Cairns and Airlie Beach on the east coast. If you’re driving, just journey down the Bruce Highway. You can also get to Townsville by Greyhound or Premier Bus. They both stop at the SeaLink Ferry Terminal, where you can purchase tickets and sail over to Magnetic Island. Aim to catch the earliest ferry possible if you’re going just for a day trip. Purchasing a daily bus ticket will be wise too.
Snorkelling
If snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef has been on your bucket list, Magnetic Island is one of the best places to do it from. Supporting retailers stock snorkelling cards and snorkel gear. You just have to wrap the cards around your wrist, get in the water and use the cards as your guides. Follow the surface floats to help you stay on track and rest at each point. Take note, Nelly Bay is perfect for beginners, while Geoffrey Bay is ideal for the snorkelling experts. Remember to wear a stinger suit when snorkelling from November to April.
Walk
Magnetic Island boasts 25 kilometres of walking tracks that take you across bays and through the Magnetic Island National Park. The Forts Walk has proven popular, and takes 1.5 hours to complete. There you’ll find WWII forts, gun emplacements and stunning panoramic views of the Coral Sea. In Picnic Bay, you can choose between two short hikes to Rocky Bay or Hawkings Point. You can also head into the national park via the Nelly Bay to Arcadia walk, a six kilometre track that passes Endeavour Falls.
Horse riding
Some say the Horseshoe Bay Ranch has provided unforgettable horse riding experiences for over 30 years. Whether a beginner or advanced, basic riding instructions are given, and there are experienced guides on hand at all times. Travel through native bush to Horseshoe Bay beach, and even venture into the water on your horse! There are morning and afternoon tours daily.
There is so much more to do and see beyond this list, and lots of accommodation options as well. Be sure to check out our latest news for the lowdown on everything Magnetic Island!
