General Facilities

Q: How do I get to the island?

A: Our travel info page is HERE

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Q: Where can we camp on the island? Is there a caravan park? 

A: There is no camping at Magnetic Island National Park, and no actual caravan park, but the YHA in Horseshoe Bay does have campgrounds for tents and camper vans.  Please do NOT just park and "free camp" as it is illegal, unsanitary and annoying to locals. It costs very little to stay at the YHA or other budget accommodations. 

We caution against bringing large, towed caravans to the island due to the steep terrain and narrow, country-style roads. 

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Q: I will be staying in Townsville. Can I take a day-trip to Magnetic Island?

A: Yes! There are lots of things to do in a day, including tours. The island has a good bus service, too.
Find tours and related activities HERE.
Ask for more information at the Tourism Information Centre, just off Flinders Street in the centre of the city.  Phone: 07 4721 3660  Alternate: 1800 801 902

Email:  flinders@tel.com.au 

 

Q: Can you suggest a Tour of the island?

A: Yes, we have several types of tours, each with a different style of travel.
Bus Tours of the island depart from Nelly Bay ferry terminal. 

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Magnetic Island Time Cruises and others offer boating tours that can be combined with all other water activities to give you the mix you want. Bookings and information at our tours and activities page

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Townsville helicopters offers tours and transfers to Magnetic Island. For more information visit: townsville helicopters 

 

Q: Is Magnetic Island suitable for families?

A: Magnetic Island is the perfect destination for families. Safe beaches and caring community means that you can relax and enjoy your holiday in the great tropical outdoors.

 

Q: Are pets allowed?

A: You’ll just need to check with individual accommodation houses as to whether you can bring your pets.  Residents do have pets on the island, and we are always concerned that they don't bother the wildlife, so please keep them under control and walk them on leash. Dogs must be muzzled while on the passenger ferry. They can ride in your own car on the car ferry.

 

Q: Is Magnetic Island wheelchair friendly?

A: The ferry to the island is wheelchair friendly and many accommodation and dining options on the island are as well. Please enquire at the time of booking for your most suitable lodging. Part of the Gabul Way walkway is accessible, from the beachfront park along Geoffrey Bay - Enjoy the view! The Esplanade in Picnic Bay, which has a park, shops, cafes a pub and great views is also accessible.
Buses on the island are not accessible.
Taxis are - if you call for a Maxi Taxi. Phone (07)4758 1303
 

Q: Is there a secure carpark facility?

A: Not specifically, although your accommodation may include car parking. The rate of crime on Magnetic Island is very low. It is recommend that you take valuables with you rather than leaving them in the car.

 

Q: Are there a restaurants on Magnetic Island?

A: The island can offer you anything from fine dining restuarants to casual dining and take-aways. There are also three supermarkets if you prefer to cook at your holiday accommodation or at the free BBQ facilities at some parks.  Visit our "Eats" page HERE.

 

Q: Are there recreational parks?

A: Magnetic Island’s four main bays are all in low lying coastal areas. Each has shaded and grassy areas, usually with free picnic facilities overlooking the beach. The island also has numerous walking tracks through our National Park. Kids can also enjoy a covered skate park and free tennis court at the Recreation park in Horseshoe Bay.

 

Q: Are there barbecue facilities?

A: Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay, Alma Bay and Horseshoe Bay all have picnic tables and FREE BBQ’s for alfresco dining.

 

Q: Is the beach accessible? How far away is it?

A: If you’re not staying in accommodation on the beach, most of the island’s accommodation is only a few minutes away.  Visit our "Beaches" page HERE.

 

Q: Which languages are spoken?

A: English

 

Q: Will my phone work?  Can we buy phone cards?

A: Mobile phone reception is available in all bays, but can be limited in some locations. Telstra and Optus are most reliable. There are pay phones in each bay. Phone credit can be purchased in shops on the island. Also, you might get free wi-fi (see below) for your device.

 

Q: Is there easy access to the internet?

A: Most accommodation houses have their own internet access. Many public phone boxes now have Telstra wi-fi access!  There are also various locations around the island where you can easily hop online.

 

Accommodation

Q: Are there many types of accommodation?

A: Yes, Magnetic Island offers backpacker, budget, 3-star and luxury 5-star accommodation.  Visit our "Accommodation" page HERE

 

Q: Can I camp on the island?
A: Maybe... There are no tent campsites at the National Park. There may be tent or recreational vehicle campsites available at backpacker or other accommodation sites.

There is no caravan park on the island and the roads here are not suitable for large caravans.

 

Q: When is the high/peak season?

A: Christmas and Easter. You’ll also need to book early for the July and September school holidays.

 

Arrival and Departure

Q: How do I get to Magnetic Island?

A: Magnetic Island is only 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville Central Business District (CBD), which is easily accessed by the main airline carriers. The airport is just 10 minutes from the CBD. Greyhound Bus and Queensland Rail connect in Townsville CBD. There are taxis and a special bus connection direct to the terminal from the airport. Visit our "Find Us" page HERE

 

Q: What options do I have to get to Magnetic Island?

A: You can either take the SeaLink passenger ferry, or the Fantasea car barge. Both run regular daily services 7 days per week.

 

Q: Is there a marina for my yacht / boat?
A: Yes. Nelly Bay Harbour.  Marina info Here.