7 Amazing Things To Do on Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is the perfect destination for a day trip, a weekend, or a week-long holiday. This small island with over 23 stunning bays and beaches is something special. It’s a short 20-minute ferry from the mainland city of Townsville and ferries run regularly each day. If you’re after rugged nature, wildlife, beaches, snorkelling, and chilled vibes, you’ve come to the right place.

# Hike to different beaches

There is around 26 km of walking trails on Magnetic Island, which take you through Magnetic Island National Park and across beaches and bays. So plenty of options for fantastic walks and they’re well sign-posted too.

If you’re starting in Picnic Bay, a short but scenic hike to Rocky Bay is one of the best things to do on Magnetic Island. The views at the end are spectacular. Another option is to take the Nelly Bay to Arcadia walk. This is a 5 km walking track that will take you around 2 hours.

# Brunch at Nourish

A bright, airy cafe is situated right across the beach at Horseshoe Bay. Make sure you stop by Nourish for a breakfast or brunch to set you up for a day of hiking, swimming and beach time on the island. This place has a great menu and the coffee is top-notch.

# Hire a Barbie car

Be it a gimmick or not, these cars look like lots of fun to explore the island. Known as topless or Barbie cars due to the striking similarities to the toy Barbie’s convertible, you can hire one and drive topless around Maggie Island.

# Hawkings Point Lookout

Hawkings Point is a picturesque spot in Picnic Bay to watch the sunset over the island. The 30 min walk up there isn’t difficult and will reward you with beautiful views over Nelly and Picnic bay. This is the perfect place to bring a few cold drinks and watch the sunset after another blissful day on the island.

# Visit Radical Bay & Florence Bay

These were two of our favourite beaches on the island (along with Arthur’s Bay). You’ve got to be prepared to walk there to get to them, but they’re totally worth it. The best thing about them was how empty they seemed to be, we almost had them all to ourselves.

# Go koala spotting

Did you know that Magnetic Island is home to the most koalas in northern Australia? Yes, so chances are high that you can spot them easily while you’re here. The best place to spot koalas is on the Forts Walk, more about this recommended walk below.

The best time to see a koala is in the early morning or late afternoon. This is definitely one of the best things to do on Magnetic Island, I mean who doesn’t love koalas?

# Arthur Bay Lookout

Hands down, this was our favourite lookout on Magnetic Island. It’s a 5 min walk away from Florence Bay, so make sure you come here to see these views. Oh, and the turquoise colour of that water is something else! some great snorkelling opportunities here too.