Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Geoff Wols, Pexels
Magnetic Island offers an accessible tropical escape with a rich blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it ideal for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. The island features palm-lined beaches, extensive national parkland, and fringing coral reefs.
For socialising, visitors gravitate towards the main settlements of Nelly Bay, Arcadia, and Horseshoe Bay, which offer a range of cafes, restaurants, and pubs with occasional live music. Picnic Bay also provides dining options and a local brewery.
Top 6 Things to do in Magnetic Island
Activities range from exploring historical trails and spotting iconic wildlife to engaging in water sports and relaxing on picturesque beaches.
1. The Forts Walk
Embark on a 4-kilometer return hike to discover World War II fortifications and enjoy panoramic vistas over the Coral Sea. This trail is also the prime location to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat, often resting in the eucalypt trees. Keep an eye out for arrows on the ground, sometimes left by locals, indicating a koala sighting.
Cost: Free.
Transport: The Forts Walk begins at the Forts Junction, accessible by the local public bus (Line 250) to the 'Horseshoe Bay Road at The Forts' stop. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately $2.80, or an all-day pass is $7.60. A taxi from Nelly Bay to the Forts area would be comparable to the $19-24 fare to Horseshoe Bay, which is approximately 7 km away.
2. Self-Guided Snorkeling at Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay
Explore the fringing coral reefs directly from the beach at marked snorkel trails in Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay. Follow surface floats to discover diverse marine life, including giant clams, and explore the Moltke shipwreck at Geoffrey Bay. Stinger suits are recommended between November and May.
Cost: Snorkeling is free if you bring your own equipment. Snorkel gear, including stinger suits, can be hired from local outlets such as Pleasure Divers in Geoffrey Bay or Aquascene in Nelly Bay. A snorkel trail swim card, which supports trail maintenance, is available for a small donation of $5.
Transport: Both Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay are easily accessible via the local public bus service. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately $2.80, or an all-day pass is $7.60.
3. Meet the Rock Wallabies at Geoffrey Bay
Visit the friendly and inquisitive wild rock wallabies that reside at the eastern end of Geoffrey Bay, near the old barge ramp. These charming creatures are often most active and visible during the early morning and late afternoon. While observing, it is best to avoid feeding them, but if offering food, ensure it consists only of suitable natural items like fruit and vegetables.
Cost: Free.
Transport: Geoffrey Bay is served by the local public bus route. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately $2.80, or an all-day pass is $7.60.
4. Sea Kayaking Tour from Horseshoe Bay
Embark on a guided sea kayak tour from Horseshoe Bay to explore the island's secluded bays and rugged coastline, many of which are only accessible by water. Tours provide opportunities to spot diverse marine life such as sea turtles, dolphins, and even humpback whales during their migratory season (July to September). Both morning and sunset tours are available, suitable for beginner to intermediate paddlers, with full instruction provided.
Cost: A half-day morning tour typically costs around $75 per adult and $55 per child. A family rate for 2 adults and 2 children can be approximately $60. Prices are usually per person in a double sea kayak.
Transport: Tours generally depart from Horseshoe Bay. You can reach Horseshoe Bay using the local public bus service. A bus trip from Nelly Bay to Horseshoe Bay takes about 12 minutes and costs approximately $1-2 (Translink) or $2.80 (local bus one-way). A taxi from Nelly Bay to Horseshoe Bay costs around $19-24.
5. Horse Riding with a Beach Swim at Horseshoe Bay
Experience a unique horse riding adventure that takes you through the native dry tropical bushland of Magnetic Island before leading onto Horseshoe Bay Beach. The highlight of this activity is often a refreshing bareback swim with your horse in the tranquil waters of the Coral Sea. Horseshoe Bay Ranch offers tours suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Cost: A 2-hour horse riding experience is typically priced around $120 per person.
Transport: Horseshoe Bay Ranch is located near Horseshoe Bay, which is accessible by the local public bus service. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately $2.80, or an all-day pass is $7.60. A taxi from Nelly Bay to Horseshoe Bay costs approximately $19-24.
6. Relax at Alma Bay
Spend time at Alma Bay, a beautiful cove renowned for its pristine white sand and calm, clear waters. This patrolled beach is ideal for swimming and unwinding. The tranquil environment makes it a perfect spot to relax, and for those interested, snorkeling around the bay can reveal colorful fish and coral formations.
Cost: Free.
Transport: Alma Bay is easily accessible via the local public bus service, with a bus stop conveniently located nearby. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately $2.80, or an all-day pass is $7.60.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
