Places: Best Things to Do On Magnetic Island, Townsville
This is your ultimate travel guide for Magnetic Island (Yunbenun)
Are you looking for an idyllic tropical getaway that blends stunning landscapes with vibrant marine life? Look no further than Magnetic Island, a captivating paradise nestled within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities, Magnetic Island is a magnet for adventure-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and beach lovers alike.
What you should know before travelling to Townsville and Magnetic Island
Why Maggie you may ask?
Did you know that over 70% of Magnetic Island is a designated Heritage-listed National Park? This natural sanctuary is a haven for Australia's iconic fauna and boasts an extensive network of over 24 kilometers of hiking trails meandering through lush bushland. These trails offer an unparalleled experience for avid hikers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Get ready to encounter adorable koalas, agile rock wallabies, and charming brush-tail possums in their native habitat. Listen for the haunting call of the noisy curlew, a bird that adds a unique and melodious ambiance to the island's tranquility.
Why is it called Magnetic Island (Yunbenun)?
It’s called Magnetic Island
When is the best time to visit Magnetic Island?
With an impressive 320 days of sunshine, Magnetic Island proudly claims its title as one of Queensland's sunniest destinations. For optimal enjoyment, the best time to visit is between May and November, when the island's natural beauty is at its zenith and stingers are kept to a minimum.
How do I get to Magnetic Island?
Townsville airport is only a 15-minute ride from the ferry terminal and the Magnetic Island ferry can be booked via Sealink and takes 20-minutes. It’s a beautiful and scenic ferry ride with a few airlines operating like Jetstar, Virgin and Bonza from most major cities.
Where can I stay on Magnetic Island?
Magnetic Island accommodation and airbnb’s spans far and wide. Some of our fave places includes Maggie A-frame, Dacha on Maggie or Amaroo on Mandalay. Be sure to book early as places fill up quick here, particularly during school holidays and in ‘winter’.
Where can I work remotely in Magnetic Island?
There are two co-working hubs in Maggie like Locale Co and Selina Magnetic Island we can vouch for which has reliable internet and meeting rooms available.
How can I get around in Magnetic Island?
You can take your car across on the Magnetic Island car ferry / barge. This is definitely worth it if you’re in a van and plan on staying a while. However, you can also hire cars and scooters on the island. Check out isle hire. However, for a tiny island, the transport is very good with regular buses and timetables which are also linked to the ferry timetables.
Are there any community groups I can join on Magnetic Island?
The ‘Magnetic Island’ Facebook group is worth joining. If you’re a marine enthusiast, Magnetic Island Underwater is also good.
Can I hire a boat on Magnetic Island?
If you’re a skipper, yes.
Top things to do in Townsville and Magnetic Island
The activities on Maggie are endless.
Go on a hike on one of Maggie’s hiking trails which spans for 24-kms.
Jump on a boat or go sailing with Pilgrim Adventures.
Swim at Alma Bay or one of Maggie’s 23 bays.
Book an Island Picnic on one of Maggie’s beautiful bays.
Explore marine wonders on a snorkelling trail at Geoffrey Bay
Magnetic Island's allure extends beyond its terrestrial charm—it serves as a gateway to the enchanting wonders of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Immerse yourself in a world of aquatic adventure as you sail, dive, snorkel, and fish in the crystal-clear waters that encompass the island. Plunge beneath the surface to uncover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or embark on a snorkeling expedition to witness the underwater tapestry firsthand. With 23 picturesque bays awaiting your exploration, you'll be spoiled for choice.
See wild koalas in its natural habitat on The Fort’s walk.
Catch a sunset in Horseshoe Bay.
Grab a vino, some fish and chips and prop yourself by the beach or if you’re feeling active, jump on a sunset kayak tour.
Grab refreshing drinks from Maggie Island Bubble Tea (Arcadia), Tiny Palms (Nelly Bay) or Maggie Island Nano Brewery (Picnic Bay).
Crafting Your Ideal Maggie itinerary
Whether you’re doing a day-trip, spending a week or decide to never leave #guilty, Magnetic Island is a captivating blend of natural wonders and outdoor activities with a diverse ecosystems, abundant sunshine, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, this island paradise promises an experience that will leave you enchanted and rejuvenated.
Pack your bags, answer the call of adventure, and embark on a journey to Magnetic Island that will create memories to last a lifetime.
Visiting Magnetic Island some time soon? Here is a curation of our fave local places to visit on Magnetic Island. Click this link via Google Maps and you'll be able to see the our list to help navigate yourself around the island which includes sights to see, places to eat (or get groceries), hikes and more.