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Magnetic Island

Sitting almost within swimming distance offshore from Townsville, Magnetic Island (Maggie to her friends) is a verdant island and one of Queensland's most laid-back residential addresses. The local population, who mostly commute to Townsville or cater for the tourist trade, must pinch themselves as they come home to the stunning coastal walking trails, gum trees full of dozing koalas and surrounding bright turquoise seas.

Over half of this mountainous, triangular-shaped island’s 52 sq km is national park, with cycling, scenic walks and abundant wildlife, including a large (and adorable) allied rock wallaby population. Inviting beaches and waters close to shore offer water sports, or simply the chance to bask in the sunshine. The granite boulders, hoop pines and eucalyptus are a fresh change from the clichéd tropical-island paradise.

Prior to white settlement, Magnetic Island was known as Yunbenun and was home to the island's traditional owners, the Wulgarukaba people.

Explore Magnetic Island

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Magnetic Island.

  • Bay

    Horseshoe Bay

    Horseshoe Bay, on the north coast, is the best of Maggie’s accessible beaches and attracts its share of young, hippy-ish nature lovers and older day…

  • Village

    Arcadia

    Arcadia village is a conglomerate of shops, cafes and accommodation. Its main beach, Geoffrey Bay, has a reef at its southern end (reef walking at low…

  • Bay

    Picnic Bay

    Picnic Bay is one of the most low-key spots on the island, dominated more by a community of friendly locals than anything else. There's a stinger net…

  • Bay

    Nelly Bay

    Magnetic Harbour in Nelly Bay will be your first taste of life on the island. There's a wide range of busy but relaxing eating and sleeping options and a…