Destinations

Magnetic Island

Lose yourself for a day, a week, or forever on Magnetic Island. You will notice that it’s like no other island getaway.

The contrasting landscape of the island makes this natural destination truly distinctive. The rocky granite headlands fuse with the 23 bays and beaches studded with magnificent Hoop pine trees, creating a dramatic coastline.

Visible from the sea, Mount Cook hovers above the eucalypt woods and green vine forests. The island provides the perfect setting for a unique escape.

Over two-thirds of the island is protected National Park providing a haven for the native wildlife, like rock wallabies, possums, and over 100 species of birdlife. Magnetic Island is home to Northern Australia’s largest colony of koalas living in the wild.

Tropical fish and marine life live in the surrounding coral reefs and tranquil waters. Explore the land or the waters and discover the island’s unique surrounds.

Escaping to Magnetic Island is easy. It’s just a leisurely 25-minute cruise across the bay from Townsville to the island.

When Captain Cook discovered the island in 1770 he believed that the island had a magnetic force that caused interference with his compass. Tests later on proved Captain Cook wrong, but the name Magnetic Island remains with visitors still abandoning their compass and losing themselves to this captivating island.

Adventure

Water sports are popular all year round. Plunge into the tranquil waters, or snorkel along the fringing reef and explore the island shipwreck trail. Go on a scuba dive tour to discover the marine life - it's a great way to see the tropical fish and coral reefs. See the splendour of the dolphins, turtles, and sea eagles by taking a guided sea kayak tour exploring the beautiful bays. Jet ski or water ski around the island or hire a yacht and sail the secluded waters.

You can go horse riding on the beach at Horseshoe Bay or for the ultimate views try skydiving over the island. And when the sun goes down you can still enjoy the beaches. Every month there's a Full Moon beach party.

Take in the natural wonder of the island and tour around by bus or taxi. For the more adventurous cruise the island in a Mini Moke or a Harley Davidson and feel the fresh air on your face. You can even hire trail bikes, scooters or bicycles. Get off the beaten track with a 4WD drive tour or there's the 25 kilometres of walking trails through the National Park. Take the Fort Walk to experience the observation points built to protect Townsville during WWII. You can explore the island alone or take one of the many tours. Enjoy an indigenous bush tucker experience or ride in style around the island in a stretch jeep.

Island Life
Once you arrive and experience island life, you'll want to stay forever. Magnetic Island is the ideal setting for any holiday. The great year-round weather makes it perfect for a relaxing getaway or an action packed adventure. Whether you are staying a day, a week, or forever, the island caters for everyone. Magnetic Island offers a wide range of affordable backpacker and budget accommodation through to self-contained apartments and resort style properties.
Many colourful characters call Magnetic Island their home. You’ll experience the island’s relaxed lifestyle and village atmosphere. There are shops in all four main residential bays. While visiting the island indulge yourself at one of the many waterfront cafes and fine dining venues. Pop into one of the taverns for an afternoon drink and some entertainment by the waterfront or dine under a tropical moon.

Natural Life
The natural wonder of the island is untouched for you to enjoy. Over two-thirds of the island is National Park protecting the natural habitat of wildlife, like rock wallabies, possums and koalas. You can see koalas in the wild and the prolific birdlife on the island. Over 100 species of birdlife including Bluewing Kookaburras, Sulphur crested Cockatoos and Black Cockatoos can be spotted. Or explore the new Koala Village, a sanctuary for the island's community of wild koalas.
Fill your senses with the aromas of frangipani, pine and eucalypts with the six walking trails covering 25 kilometres through the National Park. Some of the great walks include the trek from Nelly Bay to Arcadia which is 6 kilometres long and ideal for bird spotting. The open woodlands are often alive with birds. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, climb the iconic Mount Cook: it's a serious 3-4 hour climb, but the view is well worth it.

Reef Life
These reefs provide an exceptional dive experience with swim throughs, underwater canyons, caves, gullies and sensational wall dives. The island is perfectly situated, nestled in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Search the island's shipwreck trail at Nelly Bay. You'll find that Florence Bay, Alma Bay, Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay are popular dive spots. You can even take a day trip to the outer reef to snorkel, scuba dive, or explore the world famous Yongala Wreck.
You don't need to pack a thing for your visit. Everything is taken care of on the island. Snorkelling and dive equipment are available for hire. Magnetic Island is an ideal setting to take the plunge and learn how to scuba dive with an introductory lesson. There are also sailboats, live-aboard dive vessels, full day and multi day cruises available.