5 things to do on Magnetic Island in Australia

Magnetic Island is a 40-minute boat ride from Townsville and is home to the largest colony of wild koalas in Northern Australia. A visit to Magnetic Island means great hikes, paradise beaches, wildlife and the ultimate holiday feeling. Is Magnetic Island on your list and are you curious about what you can do on this beautiful island in Queensland? Read our tips and watch the travel video now!

1. Visit the rock wallabies

Magnetic Island has a great diversity of wildlife compared to other Australian islands. The island is known for its cute rock wallabies, which you can spot near Geoffrey Bay. The walk to the rock wallabies is already worth the effort, as it is a beautiful landscape with great views. Near the rock wallabies the road gets rockier, and you can see that this place is another unique part of Australia. The rock wallabies are best spotted early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when it’s not too hot.

2. Do the Forts Walk

Don’t miss the Forts Walk If you love nature and views. This magnificent walk takes you to spectacular rocky coves, historic military sites and wild koalas. It’s a varied walk with nature, World War II remnants (including an important fort) and many koalas to admire. As this is the largest colony of wild koalas in northern Australia, the chances of spotting them are high. So look very good around you during this beautiful walk. In our case, most of the koalas were even at eye level. The walk takes about 1.5 hours and has some steep climbs, so good walking shoes are a must.

3. Go swimming at Picnic Bay

Take a dip in the sea at a very idyllic spot at Picnic Bay. At Picnic Bay, it is possible to go into the sea (even during the jellyfish season). The government has put nets in the water to keep the so-called stingers away. Swimming at Picnic Bay is great and a nice way to cool down, considering the tropical temperatures on the island.

4. Spot animals at the Butterfly Forest Walk

Many people don’t know there is a beautiful walking route on the island to spot butterflies and een wallabies. During this wonderful Butterfly Forest Walk you will make a walk right through the forest where you can spot various colourful butterflies (and if you are lucky like us) also wallabies. Be sure to look at the ground or trees to spot unusual insects and reptiles. The Butterfly Forest Walk can be found at Dent St, Horseshoe Bay.

5. Rent a car and explore the island

Although there are several buses on the island that take you from a to b, it is advisable to rent a car. With a rental car you can explore the island at your own pace, which is really nice considering the higher temperatures and humidity in the rainy season. You can rent a normal car. But did you know that the island is also known for its funny (almost toy-like) cabriolets, with which tourists cruise around the island. Can you see yourself cruising in this funny car on the Magnetic? Check out the possibilities here

Video about Magnetic Island

Visiting Magnetic Island?

More travel tips about Magnetic Island? Read this full travel blog about Magnetic Island