Rating: 🌟 Highly Recommend

Just 20 minutes off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island is a laid-back tropical paradise with over 20 bays and beaches, wild koalas, amazing hiking trails, and classic Aussie charm. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or spot wildlife, Maggie delivers.

Top Things to Do

• Forts Walk – The island’s most famous hike with WWII ruins, sweeping ocean views, and wild koala sightings.

• Snorkel Trails – Self-guided snorkelling at Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay.

• Horseshoe Bay – Watersports, beach bars, and the perfect place for sunset.

• Picnic Bay – Swim at the stinger net, enjoy the jetty views, or have a beachside lunch.

• Alma Bay – Beautifully sheltered beach, perfect for families and bodyboarding.

• Radical Bay & Balding Bay – Hidden gems reached by foot or 4WD.

• Koala Village at Bungalow Bay – Hand-feed lorikeets and meet native animals.

• Hire a topless car or scooter – The most fun way to explore the island!
  

How Many Days to Spend

• Minimum: 2 full days – Enough time to do the Forts Walk, relax at a couple of beaches, and spot wildlife.

• Ideal: 3 days – Allows you to explore more bays, do snorkelling trails, enjoy sunsets, and unwind properly.

• Bonus: 4+ days – Great if you want extra beach time, go kayaking, or just live the island life slowly.

Tip: Magnetic Island is a popular weekend escape, but if you can visit mid-week, you’ll enjoy quieter beaches and better accommodation availability.

Wildlife to Spot

• Koalas – Especially on the Forts Walk and in eucalypts around Horseshoe Bay.

• Rock wallabies – At dusk in Geoffrey Bay (bring fruit or veggies to feed).

• Sea turtles – Often seen while snorkelling Florence Bay or Geoffrey Bay.

• Birdlife – From sea eagles to kookaburras and rainbow lorikeets.
  

Best Time to Visit

• May–September: Dry season – sunny, warm days and cool nights. Perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

• October–April: Wet season – hotter, with possible rain and stingers in the water (use stinger suits).
  

Where to Stay

• Budget: Selina Magnetic Island (hostel with glamping and a pool), Base Backpackers (beachfront party vibe)

• Mid-range: Arcadia Village Motel, Amaroo on Mandalay

• Luxury: Peppers Blue on Blue Resort (right at Nelly Bay)

• Unique: Eco cabins and glamping tents at Bungalow Bay
  

Where to Eat & Drink

• Scallywags Café: Great coffee and breakfast in Nelly Bay

• Sandi’s on Magnetic: Tasty tapas and cocktails at Horseshoe Bay

• The Marlin Bar: Good pub food and beachfront views

• Man Friday: Mexican & Caribbean fusion tucked in the trees

• Saltwater Magnetic Island: For modern seafood with a view

• Fruits & groceries: Pick up basics in Nelly Bay or Horseshoe Bay IGA
  

Top Photo Spots

• The Forts Walk Lookouts – Iconic panoramic views

• Geoffrey Bay Rock Wallabies – Best at golden hour

• Alma Bay & Radical Bay – Turquoise water and granite boulders

• Topless car cruising the coast – Classic Maggie vibe

• Picnic Bay Jetty at sunrise/sunset – Stunning reflections

• Palm-lined Horseshoe Bay – Sunset drinks with a drone shot
  

Budget Breakdown (per day)

• Accommodation: $30–$250 AUD

• Food: $25–$60 AUD

• Snorkel rental / watersports: $15–$40 AUD

• Topless car or scooter hire: ~$80–$130 AUD per day

• Koala park: ~$30 entry

• Ferries: ~$36 return from Townsville
  Tip: Save money with combo deals (e.g. ferry + car hire or ferry + tour).

How to Get There

• From Townsville:

  • 🛥️ SeaLink Ferry – 20 minutes, departs regularly

  • 🚗 Magnetic Island Ferries – Take your car across if needed

• Getting Around:

  • Rent a topless car, scooter, or e-bike

  • Public buses service the main bays (tap-on with a Go Card)