Top Magnetic Island How to Get Around in 2026

Set sail aboard a sailing yacht for a memorable small-group sunset cruise around the waters of Magnetic Island. Sip a complimentary glass of wine or beer, accompanied by a selection of local cheeses. Admire the colors of the sunset and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze during this sunset sailing cruise, which is limited to 12 people for a more intimate experience. Note that stroller accessibility is not available on this cruise.

Explore Magnetic Island by boat, with up to two snorkeling stops and equipment included, plus an optional guided walk with opportunities to spot koalas. Allow approximately 4.5 hours from Townsville or 4 hours from Magnetic Island. Routes, snorkeling stops, walks and wildlife sightings depend on weather and local conditions. Lunch is an optional purchase at checkout, rather than included in the tour price. Townsville guests check in at The Docks, 108 Flinders Street, at 8am for the 8:30am departure. Magnetic Island guests meet at Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal at 8:45am for the 9am pickup.

Discover the side of Maggie that few people see on our 3.5-hour guided West Coast Eco Adventure. Take a slow, scenic bus ride to explore pristine beaches, mangroves, waterfalls (in season), ancient rock formations, and rare conservation hotspots. Guided by our accredited expert, this eco-enriched exploration showcases diverse wildlife, Indigenous history, and World Heritage highlights. Designed as a relaxing wander, the tour includes a drop-down bus step for easier boarding and 2 to 3 short, low-impact walks along creek lines, salt marshes, and West Point beach. Enjoy a fresh, seasonal morning tea featuring tea, coffee, or juice paired with a fruit platter and sweet treats, amidst the island’s natural beauty at West Point. PLEASE NOTE: • Pick up: 8.20am Nelly Bay ferry terminal Magnetic Island, or 8.40am Picnic Bay jetty. Please advise your choice. • Please include any dietary requirements in your booking. • If possible, please provide an Australian phone number and/or email.

Get a more in-depth experience of Magnetic Island than most visitors do on this tour, tailored to day trippers or anyone staying on Magnetic Island. See the island's top sights as well as some off-the-beaten-path spots, and learn about local wildlife, history, geology, and folklore. Spend a leisurely hour at Horseshoe Bay for a lunch stop (own cost) and make it back to the ferry for an afternoon departure.

Magnetic Island's snorkeling spots and reefs are scattered around its coastline, hard to reach and link without a boat of your own. This cruise circles the island with ease, stopping to snorkel vibrant reefs and paddleboard along the way. Wetsuits, paddleboards, morning tea, and instruction are provided. Hosts with over 40 years of local experience share stories and insights, enriching your adventure.

Visit the highlights of Magnetic Island on this guided afternoon tour. Learn about the history, culture, geography, flora and fauna of the island from your local guide. Take in views over Cleveland Bay, Horseshoe Bay and the mainland. See if you can spot allied rock wallabies and butterflies. Finish your day with a swim at Horseshoe Bay.

Some of Magnetic Island’s most beautiful beaches can only be reached from the water. Pair the thrill of piloting your own Jet Ski with the navigational nous of a trained instructor-guide as you discover remote coastal locations, including seven bays without land access. Prices are per Jet Ski which can hold up to two travelers, although please note that age and weight limits apply.

Escape the shoreline crowds and experience Magnetic Island from the water on a relaxed lunchtime sailing cruise from Nelly Bay. Step aboard a yacht and glide toward secluded coves and quiet beaches, with time to swim when the anchor drops. While you enjoy the water and scenery, lunch is prepared on board, turning a few hours at sea into an easy, low-effort way to explore Magnetic Island and unwind.

Experience the beauty and charm of Magnetic Island with our 5-hour private tour, designed for groups of up to eight. This fully customizable tour lets you explore the island your way—whether it’s spotting koalas, relaxing on hidden beaches, or learning about the island’s fascinating history. Work with our expert guide to create your perfect itinerary. Take in stunning views from lookouts, discover WWII heritage, and encounter wildlife in their natural habitats. With a small group size and a personalized experience, you’ll enjoy unmatched flexibility and insights from our passionate local guides. Tour Highlights: Fully customizable 5-hour itinerary Wildlife spotting, scenic lookouts, and secluded beaches Small group for a personal experience Book your private Magnetic Island adventure today and create memories to last a lifetime!

Prepare to be spellbound as we set sail into the vast expanse of the ocean, seeking out majestic humpback whales on their annual migration journey. Feel the thrill of anticipation as our expert crew guides you to prime viewing spots, where we attempt to spot these gentle giants breaching, tail slapping, and frolicking in their natural habitat. Keep your cameras ready as we encounter a diverse array of marine wildlife, graceful sea turtles, and magnificent seabirds soaring overhead. Learn fascinating insights about these incredible creatures from our knowledgeable guides, who are passionate about marine conservation and eager to share their expertise with you. As we navigate the pristine waters, soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery and pristine beaches that adorn our route. Whether you are an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable oceanic experience, our Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise promises an unforgettable journey.

Discover the full beauty of Magnetic Island on our unforgettable three-hour Full Island Guided Jet Ski Tour. Designed and led by our experienced guides, this tour showcases iconic locations, well-known favourites and hidden gems most locals never visit. Cruise the clear waters of Balding and Radical Bays, float over the coral reefs at Arthur and Florence Bays, and navigate secluded coves and rugged rocky outcrops within protected Marine Parks. Along the way, your guide offers detailed commentary about the island’s wildlife, marine environment and unique coastal geology, including areas with local significance. Enjoy the chance to swim in remote bays, feel the thrill as we open the throttle through the Western Channel, and explore the untouched Five Beach Bays, accessible only by sea. The ultimate Magnetic Island experience, combining breathtaking scenery, remote coastal exploration and expert insights from guides passionate about showcasing the best of Yunbenun.

Visit Magnetic on this small group tour, where you’ll explore the shipwreck area and hear all kinds of stores from your guide. Meet at the marina, then board your boat. You’ll have live acoustic music onboard, and you’ll also see the sunset while you cruise along. Get your cameras ready and enjoy this gorgeous area of Queensland.

This two-hour guided journey visits eleven stunning bays, eight accessible only by sea and two by trail or ocean, showcasing the best coastal scenery on Magnetic Island. Jet ski past Balding Bay into Radical Bay, cruise along volcanic headlands, and follow the coastline through the untouched Five Bays before returning to Horseshoe Bay. Our expert guides lead the group, deliver safety briefings, provide on-water supervision, help guests navigate varying conditions, and deliver exciting insights into the islands flora, fauna, and natural environment. Riders can ask questions at each stop, gaining deeper understanding of the area’s ecosystems and protected parkland. Guided by local knowledge while enjoying the independence of driving your own jet ski, this small-group tour offers the perfect mix of sightseeing, coastal exploration, and rarely visited island gems. Note: Prices are per jet ski. Each jet ski can be shared by up to 2 riders. Weight and age restrictions apply.

All the activities are close to our resort, and the guests organise this themselves, and do as much or as little as they choose Our glamping resort is the only one of it's kind on Magnetic Island It is absolutely unique, with the rain forest in the background, Tropical gardens, and gated private carpark for guests,

Magnetic Island might look fabulous in all lights, but there’s nothing like the golden hour glow to bring out its best side. This West Point Beach safari showcases the island at sunset, when temperatures have cooled, and crowds have lessened. Plus, traveling in an all-terrain bus makes light work of the rugged landscapes.

Look for migrating humpback whales on a seasonal July–August cruise lasting approximately 3 hours from Townsville or 2.5 hours from Magnetic Island. Explore North Queensland’s coastal waters with experienced crew commentary and morning or afternoon tea included. The route follows whale activity and the safest conditions on the day; wildlife sightings and behaviours are not guaranteed. Townsville guests check in 30 minutes before departure; Magnetic Island guests check in 15 minutes before their confirmed island pickup. Townsville pickup is The Docks, 108 Flinders Street; Magnetic Island pickup is Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal. Check your confirmation for your selected departure.

After a short ferry ride from Townsville to the paradise of Magnetic Island, you'll board a luxury sailing yacht for a few hours of sailing, relaxation, fun and a delicious grazing platter. Sail along the breathtaking Magnetic Island coastline with its impressive granite boulders and hoop pines before anchoring in one of the secluded bays. There you'll have plenty of time to have a swim, stroll on the beach and relax, before enjoying a locally sourced grazing platter served with organic wines and local beers or soft drinks. While at anchor experience the local wildlife up close and personal - observe batfish and other reef fish, kites, sea eagles, and turtles. Our friendly, knowledgeable crew will share insights into the area and its vibrant marine life. They will also give you the opportunity to steer the yacht or learn a bit about sailing during your journey, if you wish. A day of fun and relaxation to remember. Return ferry tickets to Townsville included.