Destination overview

Magnetic Island is unlike any other island in Australia’s tropical north, and is located just eight kilometres off Townsville, a modern city in North Queensland where you will find all the major facilities you could possibly need. But, hop on a ferry and take a 20-minute ride and another world awaits. Magnetic Island's relaxed tropical lifestyle, quiet secluded beaches, natural unspoilt beauty, abundant wildlife and easy access to the Great Barrier Reef offer a unique tropical experience.

Although in the Tropics, the Townsville area is in a rain shadow which makes it the sunniest city on the Queensland coast. With warm sunny days and only slight maximum temperature variations throughout the year, it is swimming season all year-round. Where the rocky headlands meet the sea, many secluded beaches have been formed, some of which can only be reached on foot or by boat.

More than half of the Island's 5,184 hectares is National Park, with Mt Cook in the centre rising to 497 metres. Huge granite boulders are softened by tall Hoop pines, eucalypt forest and small patches of rainforest. There are 24 kilometres of walking tracks through the park with many spectacular lookouts. The National Park is a haven for wildlife, such as rock wallabies, possums, koalas and a wide variety of bird life.

The range of activities available on the Island is both wide and varied. Whether young or old, seeking active pursuits or relaxation, there is a selection for everyone. Being in a naturally beautiful place, with such good weather, it is not surprising to find an abundance of water-based activities. These range from the exhilarating, like a jet-ski tour around the island, to absolute relaxation - sailing in a quiet bay.

There is a choice of sailing and cruising trips all offering a relaxing day out on the water where you can swim, snorkel over coral reefs or just laze in the sun. You can even rent your own yacht. A great way to see the marine life is taking a guided sea kayak tour. The qualified instructor will show you the easy technique and from the solitude of your kayak you will explore beautiful bays and have the chance to see dolphins, turtles, coral reef fish and sea eagles.

There are also sailing catamarans for hire, as well as sailboards, surf skis, canoes and aqua bikes, or how about water skiing or, skydiving on the beach? You can take a guided snorkelling or scuba diving tour, with all the gear you’ll need available for hire.

If you fancy a spot of fishing, then a guided fishing tour is for you. Other ways to take a tour of the island are by bus, taxi or Harley Davidson, or hire a colourful Mini Moke, trail bike, scooter or bicycle. The many ways to explore Magnetic Island are endless. There are also fun four-wheel drive tours.

You will also find horse and pony riding, tennis and lawn bowls. For all golfing enthusiasts, a round at the Country Club in Picnic Bay is a must, (it is said to be where Greg Norman first played golf). Whichever club you choose, you will be made to feel very welcome at all the golf clubs on the Island.

Located within the waters of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Magnetic Island has a wealth of interesting dive sites, whether diving from the shore or a boat. The waters around Magnetic Island are warm (winter average 23 degrees Celsius - summer average 28 degrees Celsius) and relatively shallow, absolute perfect conditions for novices or for relaxed, enjoyable diving.

While not being able to boast the crystal-clear visibility of the Outer Great Barrier Reef, the beautiful bays and rocky headlands of the Island provide a home for fringing coral reefs and a wide variety of fish and other sea-life. Trips to the outer reef are available and are an experience not to be missed!

There are also many shipwrecks to explore. Most ships were sunk as shelters to moorings or jetties but the Island's rocks have also claimed several vessels over the years.
The most famous wreck in this region is the Yongala off Cape Bowling Green, quoted as one of the best wreck dives in Australia and one of the top five in the world. It sank without trace during a cyclone in 1911 with the loss of all 120 passengers and crew.

The wreck site was finally discovered in the early 1950s. It is 90 metres long and lies in about 30 metres of water, and a fantastic variety of coral and marine life live in the protected shelter. There are several day and extended trips available to the Yongala from the Island, and is an absolute must for the experienced diver.

Almost anything can be purchased on Magnetic Island. There are shops in all four main residential bays, including boutiques, hair salons, newsagents, supermarket, sports store, service station, dive shops, DVD shops, chemist, souvenir shops, bakeries, butcher, real estate agents, travel agents, coffee shops, general stores, craft shop, galleries, post office and a credit union. Many shops have locally produced items and souvenirs for sale.

Not only has Magnetic Island a good range of shops, but also a wide variety of excellent restaurants and many take-away places with special tropical menus. Whether dining in a softly-lit restaurant or eating take-away on the beach while watching the lights of Townsville, there is nothing quite like a balmy, tropical, island night on Magnetic.

Many people consider Magnetic Island to be paradise. Just ask any of the locals, who wouldn’t consider moving from this enchanting place. With relaxation as a top priority, make this destination a must on your holiday wish list.