Magnetic Island is located off the coast of Queensland, Australia (near Townsville) is a popular tourist destination. Maggie Island (as the locals call it), is famous for its beautiful beaches (Lady bay, Radical bay & Florence bay), tropical climate & its abundance of wildlife (rock wallabies, koalas, birds & butterflies). Additionally, the island offers many activities like snorkeling, hiking, & numerous walking trails (Fort walk, Hawkings lookout, West point, SS City of Adelaide shipwreck). All in all, Maggie island is a true Queensland paradise.
So, our Magnetic Island travel guide will answer all your questions: How to get to Magnetic Island, what to do in Magnetic Island, where to stay on Magnetic Island and more.
How to get to Magnetic Island from Townsville ?
You can take a ferry ride from the Breakwater Terminal to Maggie Island from Townsville (North Queensland). The ferry ride takes approximately 20 minutes and operates throughout the day. Most people don’t bother bringing their car over to the island & opt to rent an iconic topless car instead.
However, if you have a Van, I would 100% recommend bringing it over instead opf paring somewhere in Townsville. The ticket price will depend on your set-up weight. Nonetheless, it will be worth it if you stay a little while. Especially considering that we know of at least two Hipcamps on the island. Plus, one of them even offers an insane weekly discount & is two streets away from the beach!
If you plan on bringing your van, please note that bookings are essential!
What to do on Magnetic Island:
- Feed wild Rock Wallabies
- Explore Forts Walk
- Spot wild Koalas
- Daily birds feeding
- Check-out the SS City of Adelaide Shipwreck
- Self guided snorkling tours
- Hike to Hawkings lookout
- Enjoy a sunset at West Point
- Bask in the Island Life
Magnetic Island ‘s Wild Rock Wallabies
This stunning island is home to an array iconic Queensland wildlife, including rock wallabies. These fascinating creatures are a true symbol of the island’s beauty and wilderness.
Rock wallabies are famous for their agile movements and ability to scale the steep obstacles of the island’s terrain. Watching them in their natural habitat is a true wonder as they gracefully move across the rocks with ease. But the rock wallabies is more than just a sight to see. They are a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of nature. These wallabies have learned to thrive in an environment that can be harsh and unforgiving.
Magnetic Island’s rock wallabies will leave you inspired and amazed.
These rock wallabies have been here for quite some time & are used to human presence. So they will most likely be willing to be pet & fed.
(Rock wallabies can die if being fed the wrong food, so please ensure to feed them appropriately)
📍Old Arcadia Jetty Road – Rock Arch 🦘
✅ DO FEED THEM: Wallaby pellets ( you can buy them all around the island), carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, or rockmelon.
⛔️ DO NOT FEED THEM: bread, lettuce, cabbage, rhubarb, parsley, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, potatoes.
🌟 Best time to see as many as possible is early morning and late afternoon (when the sun is still shy and not so hot).
The Forts Walk on Magnetic Island:
It is a must-see for anyone visiting Maggie island.
This historic walk takes you through the World War II fortifications and offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding Queensland landscape.
The walk starts at the Horseshoe Bay trailhead and takes you up a steep path to the first fortification. Along the way, you’ll see plenty of wildlife, including wallabies, koalas, and a variety of birds.
The first fort you’ll come across is the Forts Complex. It was built during World War II to protect Australia from potential Japanese invasion. Consequently, you will spot a series of gun emplacements, tunnels, and command posts strategically placed to provide a clear view of the ocean. Later on, you’ll come across several other fortifications, including the Eagle’s Nest, which offers panoramic views of the island and the ocean. You’ll also see the remnants of the searchlight station used to detect enemy ships of the Queensland coast.
However, one of the walk’s highlights is the stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding North Queensland landscape. From the top of the fortifications, you can see all the way to Townsville on the mainland and the nearby islands.
Overall, the Forts Walk on Maggie Island is an excellent way to explore the island’s history and take in its natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a scenic walk, this walk is a must-do.
The Butterfly Walk
One of the island’s most popular attractions is the butterfly walk, which offers visitors the chance to see a variety of butterflies in their natural habitat. Every year between June and September, the butterfly forest becomes a refuge for thousands of migrating butterflies. They spend their time here resting and conserving energy. The most common species that migrate here are Blue Tiger. As you enter the butterfly walk, you’ll be surrounded by a lush tropical garden filled with nectar plants and flowers that attract butterflies.
Although it’s an amazing sight to see, it’s important to walk slowly and quietly, allowing minimal disturbance to the butterflies and allowing them to rest. If you like butterflies and a gentle stroll, then this walk is for you! Keep your eyes peeled for wallabies and other wildlife along the way too!
Overall, the butterfly sanctuary on Magnetic Island is a must-visit for any wildlife & nature lover. With its beautiful garden and diverse butterfly species, it’s a unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Bird Feeding
Bungalow Bay offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the island’s vibrant birdlife. The daily bird-feeding experience is a must-try for anyone.
You’ll have the chance to see a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat and learn about their importance to the ecosystem. One of the most popular attractions at there is the opportunity to feed lorikeets, which are known for their vibrant colors and playful personalities.
You will be amazed as the birds fly onto your hands to drink nectar and interact. But the bird feeding experience at Bungalow Bay is more than just a fun activity for visitors. The experience is also supports conservation efforts to protect the birds and their habitat. By visiting the experience, you’re not only supporting a local business but also contributing to the preservation of the island’s wildlife. The daily wild bird feeding at Bungalow Bay is a must-do while on ths North Queensland ‘s island. Its beautiful garden and diverse bird species make it a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
SS City of Adelaide shipwreck
This historic vessel was built in 1863. It was used to transport passengers and cargo between England and Australia for many years. However, in 1912, the ship ran aground in Cockle Bay on Maggie Island and has remained there ever since.
Todays, the SS City of Adelaide shipwreck is a popular attraction for visitors to the island. The shipwreck is visible from the shore, and many people come to take photos and learn about its fascinating history. The ship’s rusted hull and broken masts serve as a reminder of the dangers of the sea and the importance of maritime safety. For those who want to get a closer look at the shipwreck, several boat tours are available that take passengers out onto the water. Please note that if you decide to walk up close to the shipwreck at low tide, you should be extremely aware of stingrays !!
However, one of the most interesting things about the SS City of Adelaide shipwreck is the role it played in Australian history. The ship was one of the first vessels to transport immigrants to Australia and played a significant role in the country’s development. Today, the ship remains an important cultural and historical landmark, and it serves as a reminder of Australia’s maritime heritage. If you’re planning a visit to Magnetic Island, be sure to add the SS City of Adelaide shipwreck to your itinerary.
Snorkeling
One of the best ways to explore the North Queensland island’s underwater world is through self-guided snorkeling tours in Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay.
- Geoffrey Bay ‘s calm waters and shallow reefs make it an ideal spot for beginners, and visitors can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
- Nelly Bay is another popular spot for snorkeling, and visitors can explore a variety of underwater landscapes, from seagrass beds to coral gardens. inevitably the bay is home to diverse marine life, including clownfish, sea stars, and reef sharks.
While there are many guided snorkeling tours are available on Magnetic Island. There are also two self-guided tours avalaible & they are a great way to explore at your own pace.
Additionally, visitors can rent snorkeling gear from local operators or bring their own equipment, and maps and guides are available to help navigate the reefs.
Before embarking on your self-guided snorkeling tour, be sure to check the local weather and tide conditions, and always snorkel with a buddy. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or just starting, a self-guided snorkeling tour in Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay is a must-do activity on Magnetic Island. With its iconic Queensland’s crystal-clear waters, colorful marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes, Magnetic Island offers an unforgettable snorkeling experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Magnetic Island’s Best Beaches :
- White Lady Bay is a secluded, pristine beach on the island’s eastern side. With typical Queensland ‘s crystal clear waters and soft, white sand, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful day of lounging and swimming. You can also take a short hike up the nearby hill for stunning panoramic views of the island.
- Radical Bay, located on the island’s northern side, is a hidden gem worth the trek to get there. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and towering granite boulders, creating a truly unique & picturesque setting. You can also swim, snorkel, or relax on the sand and soak up the beauty of this secluded spot.
- Florence Bay, located on the island’s southern side, is another must-visit beach. Its calm waters and beautiful scenery make it perfect for families with children or anyone looking for a peaceful day by the sea. You can also take a stroll along the beach, go for a swim, or even try your hand at fishing.
Regardless which beach you choose to visit on Maggie Island, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. So pack your sunscreen, grab a towel, and get ready to soak up the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of this fantastic North Queensland destination.
Hike to Hawkings lookout
This stunning hike is perfect for those who want to explore the island’s rugged terrain and witness the breathtaking views from the summit.
The walk to Hawkings Lookout is a rewarding journey that takes you through various landscapes, from dense forests to rocky outcrops. As you make your way up the trail, you’ll be faced with the island’s natural beauty, including stunning vistas of the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view that will take your breath away. From here, you can see the entire island, including its beautiful beaches and lush rainforests.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the island’s resident wildlife, such as wallabies and koalas.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be steep and rocky in places.
Overall, the hike up Hawkings Lookout is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Maggie Island. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty and witness some of the most stunning views in the world.
Watch the Sunset over the ocean at West Point
As the sun sets over Magnetic Island, there’s no better place to witness the magic than at West Point. This stunning location offers the perfect vantage point to watch the sky come alive with color and light, casting an otherworldly glow over Maggie Island.
From the moment you arrive at West Point, you’ll be struck by the area’s natural beauty. The rugged cliffs and crashing waves of the Coral Sea make for a dramatic backdrop as the sun begins its descent. The salty sea breeze and warm sand underfoot only add to the sense of adventure and romance.
What’s more, as the sun starts to dip below the horizon, the sky is set ablaze with oranges, pinks, and purples. The changing colors create a breathtaking display, painting the clouds and sea with a soft glow that seems almost surreal.
This is a moment to savor, take in the world’s beauty, and appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Watching the sunset at West Point is an experience like no other.
Finally, take advantage of the island’s vibrant food and drink scene. Maggie Island boasts various restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and local produce. Enjoy a cold drink at one of the island’s many beachfront bars while enjoying the stunning sunset views.
Magnetic sland truly has something for everyone, making it a must-see destination for any traveler.
Townsville
Once you are back on the mainland, do not miss your opportunity to stop at Castle Hill (Townsville) for a breathtaking view of Magnetic Island!
When we first came to Townsville to catch the ferry to Magnetic Island, we did not feel the desire to stick around & explore this town (perhaps we were too excited to go on a tropical island 😇), but on our way south, we had to stop here for a few days. So we went out & explored our surroundings. It’s then we found multiple little gems around town. Unarguably, the best one was Castle Hill & all its walking tracks!
Func Facts:
- Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that stands proud in the center of Townsville
- The hill’s vantage was used by visiting American soldiers during World War II.
- The hill offers a 360 C view of Townsville & the amazing Palm & Maggie Islands ( & many others)
- American Soldiers offered to demolish the hill & use the rock to build a bridge to from Townsville to Maggie Island.
- The walking tracks & lookouts of Castle Hill (Townsville) are pet-friendly!
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