Magnetic Island Things To Do

Magnetic Island offers a unique blend of national park, untouched tropical beaches and bays. Bushwalking tracks provide an ideal opportunity to see the Australian wilderness and wildlife in its natural habitat. Magnetic Island is part of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef and only a short picturesque 20 minute journey by fast modern Ferries from Townsville.

Bushwalking & Wildlife Spotting

More than two-thirds of Magnetic Island is protected National Park providing a safe haven for wildlife including rock wallabies, more than 100 species of birdlife and the largest colony of koalas living in northern Australia. There are six main walking tracks covering 25 kilometres to choose from ranging from 30 minutes to two and a half hours in duration.

Red Baron Seaplanes

This Grumman Sea Cat starred in The Phantom movie and is the only two-passenger, open cockpit bi-plane on floats in the world. Joy flights depart daily (weather permitting) from Horseshoe Bay or Townsville.

Diving the SS Yongala

Lying within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park near Townsville, this is regarded as one of the world's great dives and a national historic site. It sank in 1911 with the loss of all on board. Diving trips depart daily from Magnetic Island (you must have a diving license to take part).

Sailing on Providence

A 62 foot classic schooner perfect for adventure sailing, Providence is a replica of the Gloucestershire schooner, one of the first vessels to sail in the America’s Cup in the 1870’s. Day trips and sunset cruises available.

Fishing

Magnetic Island’s beaches, rocky point and inshore waters offer great fishing spots for a variety of species including Spanish Mackerel, Coral Trout, bream, flathead, whiting, queen fish and trevally. Local fishing trips with a professional guide can be organised, or for DIY fishing, there are a number of places on the island to hire a boat and purchase tackle and bait.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village

Cuddle a koala, hold a python or smile at a crocodile. Three interactive tours are available daily.

Do it by bus

Explore this World Heritage Island with a tour – gain an insight into the history, the flora and fauna and discover some great spots for photos. The Magnetic Island Bus Service operates seven day a week and includes a delicious morning or afternoon tea and complimentary travel on the Island for the remainder of the day. Departs twice daily at 9.15am and 1.15pm and bookings are essential. Phone: 07 4778 5130.

Explore the Island yourself

The roads of Magnetic Island wind through the hills of beautiful National Park and descend to idyllic beaches and bays along the way. Explore the Island wonders from the comfort of your own car or scooter.

Tropical Topless Car Rentals offer a choice of vehicles including topless cars with an optional canopy, the classic Moke and a variety of sedans and 4WDs – Phone: 07 4758 111.

Road Runner Scooter Hire provides helmets and instruction that caters to all levels of experience. Dual seat scooters are available for experienced riders and trail bikes are available to those with a motorcycle license – Phone: 07 4778 5222.

Discover Magnetic Island by kayak

At Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks they “take photos and leave only footprints.” Discover the Island’s National and Marine Parks from the quiet of your kayak on a fun and award-winning tour.

On the Morning Tour paddle within metres of huge granite boulders, enjoy a tropical breakfast on a secluded, picturesque beach, drift over seagrass beds and coral gardens without disturbing the environment on the Island’s only‘Advanced Ecotourism’ certified tour.

On the Sunset Tour take a leisurely paddle in Horseshoe Bay’s calm water to enjoy a drink and watch the sunset behind the anchored sail boats. Visit www.seakayak.com.au.

Rock Wallaby Feeding

Local resident, Jack Vern, has fed and frolicked with local rock wallabies for the past 20 years. Late afternoon is the best time to see them at the Old Jetty in Arcadia.

Forts Walk

Forts Walk lead to World War II forts. The former command post offers breathtaking 360 degree views of Townsville, Cape Bowling Green and Palm Island.

Can Toad Racing

Cane toad races are hosted by local personality, Jack Vern every Wednesday night from 7.30pm at the Arcadia Hotel, Marine Parade, Arcadia.

For all your holiday needs

At Foodworks Shopping Centre at Nelly Bay you will find all your holiday needs. Within the precinct is a Foodworks Supermarket, Magnetic Island Cellars, Magnetic Island Pharmacy and Fat Possum Cafe.

Sunferries Travel

Sunferries specialises in tour and transport booking on Magnetic Island and the Townsville region. You can choose from an exciting range of packages or let their staff customise an itinerary for you. You will find Sunferries Travel located at Nelly Bay Terminal, adjacent to Peppers Blue on Blue. Visit www.sunferries.com.au.

Jet skiing

With so much water surrounding Magnetic Island there is no better place to experience the thrill of jet skiing. You can be at the helm of your own or share a jet ski with the family. No license is required. Visit www.jetskihiremi.com.au.

Great Barrier Reef

Spend the day snorkelling, scuba diving or just exploring one of the natural wonders of the world. Kelso Reef is the most popular reef to visit from Magnetic Island.

Giant Sea Turtles

As summer approaches so does the breeding season for the giant sea turtle sound in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Female turtles crawl ashore to dig large holes and lay their eggs before crawling back into the sea to continue their solitary, nomadic existence. During this time the Indo-Pacific Sea Turtle Conservation Group conduct beach walks as part of their research looking for signs of nesting sites.

Whale watching

Tours are available in season, July – September.

Horse riding on the beach

Ride through a bush track and then take your horse swimming in the ocean. Rides cater for beginners through to experienced riders.

Townsville

Board the ferry and visit Townsville for the day. You can jump aboard a Fanatsea cruiser to the Great Barrier Reef, visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland, the Maritime Museum of Townsville or the Cultural Centre.

See Australian native wildlife at the Billabong Sanctuary, view the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium at Reef HQ Aquarium or relax and enjoy a movie at the IMAX Dome Theatre.