Magnetic Island Guide Winter 2022

THE ULTIMATE 

YOUR FREE SOUVENIR COPY 

Magnetic Island Guide 

WINTER 2022 

DISCOVER. EXPLORE. ENJOY! 

Your complete holiday planner 

magneticislandguide.com.au 

Where to go 

What to do 

Where to stay 

How to get there

Beautiful beaches, 

secluded bays, 

- naturally attractive! 

A sincere thanks to the advertisers who make the free distribution of this publication possible. 

PLEASE MAKE THEM YOUR PRIORITY WHEN MAKING YOUR HOLIDAY CHOICES.

3 

Radical Bay, Balding Bay 

and Horseshoe Bay 

@darylcawthorne 

• Welcome to Paradise 4 

• An Island of Beautiful Bays 5 

• The Climate9 

• How to Get Here 10 

• An Island of Things to Do 11 

• Cruises 18 

• Diving & Snorkelling 28 

• Self Guided Snorkel Trails 30 

• Fishing 32 

• Tide Times 34 

• Island Walking Tracks 36 

• Entertainment, Markets, 

Events, Sport & Island Art 40 

• Island Transport 42 

• Dining Guide 51 

• Accommodation 71 

• An Island Wedding 80 

• Shops & Services 86 

• Island Services Directory 94 

• Green Guide 97 

• Maps 100 

• Business Directory 104 

• Bus Timetable 106 

• Ferry Timetables 107 

Share your experiences and 

memories from ‘Maggie’ 

@magneticislandguide 

ACTIVITIES 

TRANSPORT 

DINING - BAR 

MAPS-TIMETABLES GREEN GUIDE SERVICES WEDDINGS ACCOMMODATION

4 

Welcome to Paradise 

Just 8km from Townsville in Tropical North 

Queensland, you’ll find Magnetic Island 

- a very beautiful and a very special place. 

The Island has a unique blend of national park, 

23 beaches and bays, and a small residential 

population of over 2,000, all within World 

Heritage Marine Park. 

Some of the 

best beaches 

and most 

picturesque 

bays in 

Queensland 

are found 

on Magnetic 

Island 

Some of the best 

beaches and most 

picturesque bays 

in Queensland 

are found on the 

Island, with the 

more secluded 

ones only accessible 

by walking 

track or by boat. 

With an average 

of 320, fine sunny 

days annually, 

it’s the perfect 

climate to enjoy. 

More than half 

the Island is 

national park. 

Its huge granite 

boulders and towering hoop pines dominate 

the mountainous skyline. The rugged natural 

beauty is a haven for wildlife such as koalas, 

rock wallabies, possums and a wide variety of 

tropical bird life. 

The 25km of walking tracks provide an opportunity 

to see wildlife in its natural habitat and 

also to enjoy the many spectacular views. 

The Island lifestyle is relaxed and friendly. You 

can choose to do as little or as much as you 

like. Relax, you’re on “Island time”. 

There are many ways of seeing and 

enjoying the Magnetic Island and the North 

Queensland region. Take a day trip from the 

Island and discover the Great Barrier Reef, the 

Outback (with its historic gold mines) or the 

wet tropics rainforest. 

The city facilities of Townsville, are just 20 

minutes away by Sealink passenger ferry, or 45 

minutes by car ferry (Magnetic Island Ferries). 

With easy accessibility, great weather, accommodation 

that ranges from budget to five 

star, and a relaxed atmosphere, everyone can 

experience their ideal and affordable tropical 

island holiday.

5 

An Island of Beautiful Bays 

Picnic Bay 

Rocky Bay 

Nelly Bay 

There are more than 23 bays and beaches 

around Magnetic Island, each one has its own 

special appeal. It is not uncommon to have a 

beach to yourself. 

In Picnic Bay there is a specially designed 

swimming enclosure for safe swimming 

during the summer months. It consists of a 

floating net allowing for all tide variations. 

While in Picnic Bay take a stroll along the 

jetty or enjoy just relaxing in the beachfront 

gardens and the free barbecues. The Island’s 

golf course, the National Parks office and the 

Magnetic Museum are also in Picnic Bay. 

A favourite with sun lovers is Rocky Bay. This 

is a secluded beach that can be reached via a 

track from the lookout between Picnic Bay and 

Nelly Bay/Base Backpackers. Even if the tide is 

high it is a good place to explore. 

Nelly Bay is a great place to go for an early 

morning run or a leisurely walk along the 

Presto Breakwater. It’s also good for swimming, 

or snorkelling on the fringing coral reef. 

Towards the northern end of the beach you 

will find a children’s playground and a coinoperated 

barbecue area, and further along 

overlooking the harbour there is a sheltered 

picnic table and toilets.

6 

Radical Bay 


Geoffrey Bay (Arcadia), is a Marine National 

Park Zone, which signifies no fishing or 

collecting. The fish at the old Arcadia ferry 

landing are almost tame. Rock wallabies can 

also be seen feeding in the same area. 

Alma Bay, (Marine Park Zone) is another 

popular swimming spot. The Arcadian Life 

Saving Club, patrol on weekends and public 

holidays. There are also public amenities such 

as a barbecues, picnic tables, shaded children’s 

play ground, changing areas and toilets. 

Some of the best snorkelling is in Arthur 

Bay, (Marine Park Zone) on the left hand side 

out towards the point. On the right side of 

the bay, some 

interesting caves 

Sheltered 

bays for great 

snorkelling 

& diving 

protect a large 

variety of reef fish. 

This bay is included 

in both the National 

Park and the Marine 

Park. Some other 

good swimming 

spots are Florence 

Bay, Radical Bay, 

Balding Bay and 

Horseshoe Bay. 

Geoffrey Bay 

Alma Bay 

Arthur Bay

7 

Balding Bay 

Florence Bay 

Florence Bay (Marine Park Zone) is considered 

to be one of the most beautiful. There 

is coral on the left hand side of the bay along 

the rocks and a coral bomey in the centre of 

the bay. The only inhabitants of this lovely 

sheltered and shady beach are the wildlife. 

The road at present is not in good repair but 

is passable with care. Hire cars are not allowed 

on this road unless they are four-wheel drive. 

Radical Bay (Marine Park Zone) at the end 

of the road is another great Island beach, 

peaceful and sheltered. Walk in only. 

Radical Bay 

Balding Bay 

Balding Bay (Marine Park Zone) can be 

reached by sea or by the walking track from 

either Horseshoe Bay or Radical Bay. It is a 

secluded bay and a nice walk in, so take a drink 

or your lunch and plenty of water. 

Horseshoe Bay is the largest bay on the 

Island and is ideal for watersports. Almost 

every watercraft imaginable is available for hire 

and from here jet ski and kayak trips depart. 

There is also a safe swimming enclosure which 

is floodlit at night. Normally several fishing 

boats can be seen anchored at the eastern end 

of the bay making ready for their trip out to 

the Great Barrier Reef. From July to September 

majestic Humpback whales visit our warm

8 

Rocky Bay 


tropical waters to breed and give birth. 

Many lucky people in boats and kayaks have 

experienced this rare sight. In recent years 

the famous white whale Migaloo was photographed 

in these waters. 

Horseshoe Bay 

Also in Horseshoe Bay is the Wildlife Park, 

where the rangers encourage you to interact 

with koalas, crocodiles and pythons, taste local 

bush tucker and take an adventure bush walk 

through native habitats. 

While in the same area, the Horseshoe Bay 

Lagoon Environmental Park and boardwalk, 

is just a few hundred metres from the road. 

If you approach quietly you may see some 

of the many water birds which frequent this 

freshwater lagoon especially after a good wet 

season. 

If all that sounds too energetic, for the 

more leisurely minded who came to recharge 

their batteries, there is sunbathing, having 

a relaxing massage, smelling the frangipani, 

feeding the lorikeets, browsing through the 

many interesting shops and galleries on the 

Island, birdwatching or trying to decide which 

restaurant to go to next! 

Cockle Bay 

Huntingfield Bay

9 

Nelly Bay 

Magnetic Island . . . 

where Queensland shines! 

Magnetic Island’s greatest assets are its 

rugged natural beauty, its wildlife, the many 

beautiful beaches, its easy accessibility and 

the climate (320 days of sunshine annually). 

With warm sunny days, and only slight 

maximum temperature variations throughout 

the year, it is swimming season all year round. 

The yearly average maximum temperature 

is 28.8 C. and 

the minimum 

Magnetic 

Island’s 

“holiday sun“ 

means more 

rain-free days 

to enjoy your 

holiday 

is 19.7 C. The chart 

on the right shows 

the weather pattern 

more clearly, 

it includes the 

monthly average 

temperatures, 

the daily average 

hours of sunshine 

per month 

and the rainfall. 

These figures 

were compiled 

for Townsville just 

Max 

Temp. 

C 

Min 

Temp. 

C 

Daily 

Hours of 

Sunshine 

Rainfall 

in 

mm 

JAN 31.3 24.2 7.9 276 

FEB 31.0 23.9 7.2 283 

MAR 30.6 22.8 7.4 197 

APR 29.5 20.5 7.8 63 

MAY 27.5 17.6 7.4 37 

JUN 25.5 14.4 8.0 20 

JUL 25.0 13.6 8.4 14 

AUG 25.9 14.7 9.0 17 

SEP 27.6 17.3 9.5 11 

OCT 29.3 20.6 9.8 26 

NOV 30.7 22.8 9.4 56 

DEC 31.4 23.9 8.9 130 

Average yearly rainfall 1129mm 

(Decade based) 

8km away, but because of the sea breeze, the 

Island maximum temperature is about one 

degree cooler than the mainland. 

Reflecting the relaxing lifestyle, dress is 

casual, cool and light, with a sweater for winter 

evenings and boating. It doesn’t matter if you 

forget to bring important gear, like swimwear, 

a shady hat or sunscreen, it’s all available here, 

even evening wear - and resort wear makes 

great souvenirs of your island holiday.

10 

How to get here 

Getting to Magnetic Island is easy! 

Located only 8 kilometres from the city centre 

of Queensland’s northern capital Townsville, 

enjoy a 25 minute ferry ride to where another 

world awaits. 

By air 

The city of Townsville is well serviced with 

many daily flights connecting from cities 

throughout Australia. If you are travelling 

from overseas, you will need to take a 

domestic flight to Townsville (or if your entry 

point is Cairns, you may like to arrive by road, 

an enjoyable five hour drive). 

So close, 

yet a world 

away from 

the hustle 

and bustle. 

Relax and 

enjoy! 

Townsville airport 

transfers can be made 

by airport shuttle bus, 

taxi or limousine. It is 

only a ten minute drive 

to the city and ferry 

terminals. 

By rail 

One Traveltrain operates 

through Townsville 

on the coastal route. 

This is the Spirit of 

Queensland, which 

operates five times weekly between Brisbane 

and Cairns. The Inlander runs twice weekly 

between Townsville and Mt Isa. All services 

have club car refreshment facilities. The railway 

station is right in the city centre and only a ten 

minute drive from the ferry terminals. 

By road 

Two of Australia’s major roads converge in 

Townsville. The Bruce Highway follows the 

coast and the Flinders Highway runs inland 

through the outback. All major bus companies 

have multiple daily services. The bus transit 

centre is conveniently located at the Sealink 

‘Breakwater’ ferry terminal. 

Self-drive 

Follow the signs to the city centre. The Sealink 

passenger ferry terminal is situated on Ross 

Creek in Sir Leslie Thiess Drive near the Casino. 

The car and passenger ferry (Magnetic Island 

Ferries) is on the opposite bank of Ross Creek 

in Ross Street, South Townsville. If arriving 

from the south, the Port Access Road is the 

easiest route to the car ferry. 

Ferry Services Sealink (passenger) and 

Magnetic Island Ferries (car & passenger) both 

operate seven days a week. The timetables are 

inside the back cover.

11 

ACTIVITIES 

 

An Island of things to do 

It is not surprising to find an abundance of 

outdoor activities, especially on the water, 

when you’re in a naturally beautiful place 

with such good weather. These range from 

the exhilarating jet ski tour around the Island, 

to the absolutely relaxing sailing or stretching 

out in a quiet bay. 

There is also a choice of sailing, sea kayaking 

and cruising trips. Each one is different, but 

all offer a relaxing day out on the water, and a 

variety of activities such as marine life encounters, 

swimming, snorkelling over coral reefs, 

fishing or just lazing in the sun. 

Almost every kind of watersport activity 

is available or for hire. Learn to scuba dive 

or experience a resort dive. Take a guided 

snorkelling or scuba diving tour. Diving and 

snorkelling gear is also available for sale and 

for hire. 

For fishing enthusiasts, there are a wide 

range of possibilities, with a multitude of great 

shore-based spots around the Island, plus a 

variety of offshore fishing trips on offer. An 

amazing range of fishing gear is available on 

the Island, both for sale and hire. 

Activities 11 - 41 

• Cruises 18 

• Diving & Snorkelling 28 

• Self-Guided Snorkel Trails 30 

• Fishing 33 

• Tide Times 34 

• Walking Tracks 36 

• Entertainment, Sport, Markets, 

Annual Events & Island Art 40 

Visit the wildlife park and hold a koala, 

crocodile or python, take a bushwalking tour, 

or explore the many walking tracks. 

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. You’ll 

be made very welcome at all the Island’s club 

including the Bowls Club and RSL.

12 

ACTIVITIES 

Photo by Beat Lehmann 

Photo by Beat Lehmann 

Photo by Tim Hempstead

13 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

27

14 

The Forts 

ACTIVITIES

15 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

5 

MAP 

REF 

4

16 

ACTIVITIES 

Photo by Townsville Enterprise

17 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

34 

Florence Bay

18 

ACTIVITIES 

Photo by Big Mama Sailing

19 

ACTIVITIES 

Cruises 

One of the most relaxing and enjoyable 

ways to explore the Island is to take a boat 

cruise or sail. 

Many of the bays and beaches are only 

accessible by boat and their calm waters 

provide some of the best swimming, 

snorkelling and dive sites around the Island. 

You will often see turtles, dolphins and 

even whales at the right time of the year, 

while sailing or cruising around the Island. 

When anchored in one of the Island’s 

secluded bays, don’t be surprised if fish 

appear around the boat looking for a free 

handout, or a sea eagle or kite are looking 

for some extra lunch. 

Some of the cruise boats have their own 

wildlife “pets” that always come for a visit. 

The cruise captain’s knowledge of the 

Island ensures that you will see the best 

spots for coral viewing and marine life. He 

also knows the best marine wrecks to explore 

and where to drop a line, if you fancy doing a 

little fishing. 

Most day cruises include lunch served 

while anchored in a quiet bay (and often 

morning and afternoon tea as well). 

All you will need to take is your swimming 

gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and don’t 

forget your camera. 

It is advisable to book your cruise during 

the early part of your stay as all cruises have 

limited numbers and late bookings may not 

be available. 

Tours around the Island are usually for a 

half day, a full day or are a sunset tour. 

Trips to the outer Barrier Reef or Orpheus 

Island are full day, and some boats are available 

for charter, or make regular trips to the 

other secluded tropical islands . 

If you are planning a party, or you have a 

group booking, ask about the special price. 

Some cruises leave from Nelly Bay and 

others from Horseshoe Bay, but they all offer 

a great day out on the water.

20 

Huntingfield Bay 

ACTIVITIES

21 

ACTIVITIES

22 

Balding Bay 

ACTIVITIES

23 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

32

24 

Balding and Radical Bays 

@darylcawthorne 

ACTIVITIES

25 

ACTIVITIES

26 

ACTIVITIES 

Cleveland Bay 

@pilgrimsailing

27 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

33 

@YasienAdams

28 

ACTIVITIES 

Diving & Snorkelling 

Some of the best places to dive on the 

Island are found in Geoffrey Bay, Alma Bay, 

Arthur Bay , Florence Bay, Bright Point and 

on the reef in Nelly Bay. 

Apart from viewing the coral of the fringing 

reefs around the Island, there are many ship 

wrecks to explore as well. 

The Moltke wreck, a German barque in the 

Geoffrey Bay Marine Park is an excellent dive 

especially at night, with a large variety of coral 

in a concentrated area and teeming with fishlife. 

The wreck is marked by a buoy near the 

old Arcadia jetty. This dive is suitable for 

novice divers. 

The wreck of the Platypus (an old dredge), is 

in Arthur Bay, on the left hand side out towards 

the point in a rocky cove and is encrusted with 

hard corals. 

Most ships were sunk as shelters to moorings 

or jetties, but the Island’s rocks have also 

claimed the schooner Lavina in Rocky Bay. 

The ketch Lallah Rookh was also wrecked on 

Bremner Point, in 1896. 

The most famous wreck in this area is of 

course the Yongala off Cape Bowling Green, 

quoted as the best wreck dive in Australia. 

It sank during a cyclone in 1911 with 120 passengers 

on board. It is 90 metres long and lies 

in about 30 metres of water. A fantastic variety 

of coral and marine life live in the protected 

shelter. Dive boats visit daily. 

For more detailed information on the dive 

spots and courses see the Dive shops, or take 

a boat dive tour. 

Good places to snorkel on the Island are: 

• Florence Bay, (along the rocks on the left 

or northern side) 

• Nelly Bay (on the fringing reef) 

• Geoffrey Bay (near the old barge ramp) 

• Arthur Bay (on the left hand or northern 

side out towards the point) 

• Alma Bay (you’ll find coral on the left hand side) 

Snorkelling gear can be hired or purchased 

from the fishing and leisure hire shops. When 

purchasing or hiring your mask ask the supplier’s 

advice to be sure your mask fits properly. 

A fascinating world awaits! 

If you have never snorkelled before, the 

Island’s bays (with their gently sloping beaches 

and weak tidal currents) are an ideal place 

to learn. Guided snorkelling tours are also 

available.

29 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

7 

MAP 

REF 

8

30 

ACTIVITIES 

Self-guided Snorkel Trails 

Geoffrey Bay 

Snorkel Trail 

Nelly Bay 

Snorkel Trail 

In mid-2012 two Snorkel Trails in Nelly Bay 

and Geoffrey Bay were established by Dr Rick 

Braley and TOBMI (Tourism Operators and 

Businesses Magnetic Island). These are selfguided 

trails use surface floats with handles to 

mark out the trails, and sub-surface floats with 

large acrylic letters designate points of interest. 

The Geoffrey Bay Trail is close to the Moltke 

wreck, and a WWII propeller and engine block. 

Water resistant Swim Cards which you attach 

to your wrist, have specific information related 

to each trail. The Cards outline which species of 

fish and coral you are likely to see at each location, 

and specifically at each float that you pass, 

including the 100kg aquacultured giant clams! 

The cards also show you how to find the 

Moltke wreck, giant clams, fish, and the WWII 

aeroplane propeller with some accuracy. 

Your $5 donation for the use of these cards 

supports the ongoing costs of insurance 

and maintenance of the trails. These cards 

can be recycled after use by leaving them in 

the drop box at the start of each trail. 

VISIT AQUASEARCH AQUARIUM 

Snorkel Trail founder Dr Rick Braley’s Aquasearch Aquarium in 

Nelly Bay offers educational tours. Book at aquasearch.net.au 

Pick up your handy Swim Card from 

these participating retail outlets: 

Nelly Bay 

• Aquasearch Aquarium: 6-10 Elena St 

• Sealink: Nelly Bay Terminal 

• Base Backpackers: 1 Nelly Bay Rd 

• FNF Outdoor Adventure: 36 Mandalay Ave 

• Island Palms: 13 The Esplanade 

• Island Living: 4 Mandalay Ave 

• MI Post Office: 98 Sooning St 

• Pro Dive: 43 Sooning St 

Arcadia 

• Arcadia Newsagency: 7 Marine Pde 

• Pleasure Divers: 10 Marine Pde 

Horseshoe Bay 

• Horseshoe Bay Store: 7 Pacific Dr 

Picnic Bay 

• Magnetic Museum: Granite St 

Townsville 

• Magnetic Island Ferries: Ross St Sth Townsville 

• Sealink: Breakwater Terminal Townsville

31 

ACTIVITIES 

MAP 

REF 

24 

Giant Clam

32 

Picnic Bay 

ACTIVITIES

33 

ACTIVITIES 

Fishing 

Fishing in Queensland waters offers the recreational 

angler a variety of fishing unequalled 

anywhere in Australia. 

Whether you throw a line in off the rocks, 

fish the rich waters off Magnetic Island, or take 

a trip out to the 

Great Barrier Reef, 

The fishing is 

rewarding! 

Try a line off 

the rocks (or 

the jetty) in 

the rich waters 

of Magnetic 

Island, or take 

a trip out to the 

Great Barrier 

Reef. 

the local fishing 

is rewarding, providing 

fighting fish 

for sport and also 

excellent eating 

fish. 

From the 

beaches, rocky 

points and inshore 

waters you will 

catch species such 

as bream, flathead, 

whiting, queen 

fish, mackerel and 

trevally to name a 

few. Fresh bait is 

best, try prawns, 

pilchards, squid or 

herrings. 

Fishing tackle and bait can be purchased 

on the Island. There are boat ramps in Picnic, 

Nelly and Horseshoe Bays. 

Some of the best fishing spots are Middle 

Reef, West Point, Orchard Rocks, Horseshoe 

Bay, the harbour breakwater in Nelly Bay and 

in Picnic Bay, the jetty and rocks near the surf 

club. 

Local fishing trips can be booked for a few 

hours or more, with a professional fishing 

guide who knows the “right spots”, so good 

results are assured. See pages 23 to 27 of this 

Guide for local guides and tours. 

Booking agents on the Island are only too 

happy to arrange a fishing trip for you, locally, 

or out to the Great Barrier Reef where coral 

trout, sweet lip, red emperor, gold spot cod 

and many other varieties of reef fish await. 

For “what’s on the bite” and the best spots 

ask your friendly fishing tackle shop. 

PLEASE NOTE: Fishing is NOT allowed 

in Geoffrey, Alma, Florence, Gowrie, 

Radical and Balding Bays or the Five 

Beach Bay area. These are Marine National 

Park Green Zones and fines apply. For more 

information visit: www.gbrmpa.gov.au

34 

Tide Times 

TIDE TIMES 

APRIL 2022 

MAY 2022 

JUNE 2022

35 

Tide Times 

JULY 2022 

AUGUST 2022 

SEPTEMBER 2022 

TIDE TIMES

36 

ACTIVITIES 

Island Walking Tracks 

1 The Forts Walk 4km (1.5hrs return) 

ROLLINGSTONE 

BAY 

MAUD 

BAY 

Huntingfield 

HUNTINGFIELD 

Norris 

Joyce NORRIS 

Bay BAY Wilson JOYCE 

WILSON 

BAY Bay 

Bay BAY 

Bay BAY 

Starting at the Forts Junction, the track winds 

its way along the ridge with good views above 

Arthur and Florence Bays. Keep an eye out in 

the canopy for koalas. 

On the way up, there are two World War II gun 

emplacements, one either side of the track. Some 

of the “rocks” are actually false, being the remains 

of the camouflaging over the emplacements. 

Only the tell-tale wire netting give them away. 

At the top among the giant granite boulders and 

hoop pines there are two buildings. One is the 

Observation Tower where there is an uninterrupted 

view up and down the coast on one side, 

and the Townsville Harbour on the other. 

You’ll experience a 360 degree panoramic view 

from the other building (the Command Post), 

which is still in use for navigation lights. 

Looking inland, the track from Nelly Bay to 

Arcadia can be faintly seen snaking across the 

distant ridge. Below is Horseshoe Bay Lagoon, 

and the large flat area which was once pineapple 

farms. Looking across Horseshoe Bay the large 

island is Palm Island, one of the many, including 

Orpheus Island, in the Palm Island Group. You 

can continue on to picturesque Florence Bay to 

swim or snorkel, or return to The Forts Junction. 

12k 12K 

12K DISTANCE (KM) FROM NELLY BAY 

FERRY 

ARRIVAL MANGROVES 

POINT 

REEF 

4k 

FERRY ARRIVAL POINT 

UNSEALED ROAD 

WALKING TRACK 

LOOKOUT 

WEST 

POINT 

STINGER NETS/SURF LIFE SAVING 

NATIONAL PARK BOUNDRY 

CONSERVATION PARK ZONE 

(Extends from West Point & Hawking Point to the mainland) 

UNSEALED ROAD 

WALKING MARINE NATIONAL TRACKPARK ZONE (No take zone/No fishing) 

LOOKOUT 

SNORKEL TRAIL 


Km SHIPWRECK FROM NELLY BAY 

MANGROVES 

PUBLIC TOILETS 

REEF 

FUEL 

Conse rvation Park Zone 

Marine BOAT RAMP National Park Zone 

(No take zone) 

YOUNG 

BAY 

Conservation Park Zone extends to the mainland 

BOLGER 

BAY 

Townsville 

8kms 

MAGNETIC ISLAND 

NATIONAL PARK PARK 

CONSERVATION 

PARK 

MOUNT Mt. Cook COOK 

497 metres 

497 

metres 

COCKLE Cockle BAY Bay 

BACON BAY 

NOBBY HEADLAND 

2 Horseshoe Bay - Forts Junction 5.4km (2 hrs) 

At the eastern end of the Horseshoe Bay foreshore 

the track climbs up and along a ridge. 

Turn left down to Balding Bay or continue along 

the ridge (which is about the same distance) 

to Radical Bay. The road leads from Radical Bay 

back to The Forts Junction. 

7

37 

ACTIVITIES 

The Forts 

3 Forts to Horseshoe Bay 2.3km (50 min) 

Lovers LOVERS Bay WHITE ROCK 

Maud BAY 

Bay 

PICNIC 

BAY 

4k 4K 

Nobby 

Headland 

6 

8K 

Doctor Clinic 

4 

WHITE LADY 

BAY 

HORSESHOE 

HORSESHOE 

BAY 

BAY 

0K 0 

THE POINT 

6k 6K 

3b 7k 

HSB LAGOON 

5k 5K 

ARCADIA 

ARCADIA 

5 

3 

2k 2K 

The 

THE Forts FORTS 

4k 4K 

8k 8K 

7K 7k 

6k 6K 

Alma ALMA Bay BAY 

GEOFFREY Geoffrey BAY Bay 

Bright BRIGHT Point POINT 

BALDING Balding BAY Bay 

RADICAL Radical BAYBay 

WHITFIELD 

COVE 

BREMNER POINT 

Arthur ARTHUR Bay 

BAY 

ORCHARD 

ROCKS 

GOWRIE Gowrie 

Bay BAY 

FLORENCE Florence 

BAY Bay 

NELLY 

BAY NELLY BAY 

Car ROCKY Rocky BAY Bay Passenger CAR & PASSENGER FERRIES 

Ferry8km to Townsville 

Passenger 

N 

HAWKINGS POINT Ferry 0 1 2 3 

Hawkings 

0 1 2 3 

Point 

kilometres 

Kilometres 

See page 100 for detailed map trails! 

Searchlight Tower Track from Radical 

2b 

Bay Road 540m (15 min) 

This track is located along the Radical Bay Road. 

The start of the track, marked by a National Parks 

sign, is between Arthur Bay and Florence Bay. 

Remnants of the World War II searchlight tower 

still exist today overlooking Florence Bay. 

1 

2 

2b 

Beginning at The Forts Junction, you can walk 

this track (not on the main road) to Horseshoe Bay 

foreshore. If you continue along the track it meets 

the road at the bottom of the descent into 

Horseshoe Bay. 

3b Horseshoe Bay Lagoon 750m (15 min) 

Horseshoe Bay Lagoon is a popular area for bird 

watching. The track begins on Horseshoe Bay 

Road, about 200 m from the beach, and leads to 

a lagoon where a number of waterbirds can be 

seen. Magpie geese nest in the bulkuru sedges, 

and the melaceuca woodland is ideal habitat for a 

number of woodland species. 

4 Nelly Bay to Arcadia 5km (1.5hrs) or 

Nelly Bay to The Forts Junction 6.4 km (2.2hrs) 

This track starts at the end of Mandalay Avenue 

and passes through a cool patch of rainforest 

alongside Gustav Creek before a steady climb to 

the saddle of the ridge, with Nelly Bay on one side 

and Horseshoe Bay on the other. Many birds and 

wildlife can be seen, (as well as bush orchids at 

the right time year). To this point and back is a 

45 minute walk. 

For a longer walk continue along the ridge through 

open eucalypt forest to an excellent view of 

Horseshoe Bay. A little further on the track divides, 

(left to The Forts Junction and later, left again to the 

Sphinx lookout), or continue on to Arcadia. 

When the track reaches the bitumen road, just a

38 

ACTIVITIES 

Island Walking Tracks 

short distance up to the left is Alma Bay Lookout, 

the view is well worth that little extra effort. This is 

a great walk to take lunch and admire the view. 

5 Arcadia to Nelly Bay (2.1km 25 mins) 

The Nelly Bay end of the walkway starts near the 

ferry terminal and follows the main road up over 

Bright Point headland and down into Arcadia. 

Gabul Way is the elevated walkway which provides 

a safe and wonderfully scenic link between two 

of the Island’s busiest bays. There are several lookouts 

to pause and enjoy the fabulous views over 

Geoffrey Bay as you make your way to Alma Bay. 

5b Heritage Track to Bright Point 500m (15 mins) 

This track parallels Gabul Way on other side of 

the main road, (further up the hill) and is part of 

the hundred year old original footpath that connected 

the two bays before there was a road, the 

only other option in those days was by boat. The 

track starts some way up the hill at the Nelly Bay 

end and is marked by signs at either end, and has 

some great views over Geoffrey Bay. It finishes as 

Gabul Way meets the beach, near the first house. 

6 Nelly Bay to Picnic Bay 4.4km (50 mins) 

From the ferry terminal, walk through the heart 

of Nelly Bay, then along the foreshore, up a step 

hill with magnificent views of Cleveland Bay, 

Rocky Bay, Picnic Bay and beyond, into Picnic Bay. 

12k 12K 

12K DISTANCE (KM) FROM NELLY BAY 

FERRY 

ARRIVAL MANGROVES 

POINT 

REEF 

4k 

FERRY ARRIVAL POINT 

UNSEALED ROAD 

WALKING TRACK 

LOOKOUT 

WEST 

POINT 

STINGER NETS/SURF LIFE SAVING 


ROLLINGSTONE 

BAY 

CONSERVATION PARK ZONE 

(Extends from West Point & Hawking Point to the mainland) 

UNSEALED ROAD 

WALKING MARINE NATIONAL TRACKPARK ZONE (No take zone/No fishing) 

LOOKOUT 

SNORKEL TRAIL 


Km SHIPWRECK FROM NELLY BAY 

MANGROVES 


REEF 

FUEL 

Conse rvation Park Zone 

Marine BOAT RAMP National Park Zone 

(No take zone) 

YOUNG 

BAY 

Conservation Park Zone extends to the mainland 

BOLGER 

BAY 

Townsville 

8kms 

MAUD 

BAY 

Huntingfield 

HUNTINGFIELD 

Norris 

Joyce NORRIS 

Bay BAY Wilson JOYCE 

WILSON 

BAY Bay 

Bay BAY 

Bay BAY 


NATIONAL PARK PARK 

CONSERVATION 

PARK 

6b Hawkings Point 1.2km (45 mins return) 

MOUNT Mt. Cook COOK 

497 metres 

497 

metres 

7 

COCKLE Cockle BAY Bay 

BACON BAY 

NOBBY HEADLAND 

This is one of the easiest and shortest walks with 

an exceptional view. The track begins at the end 

of Picnic Street in Picnic Bay and winds its way up 

to the top of a huge granite boulder. 

If you face towards Townsville and across 

Cleveland Bay, to your left is Cape Cleveland.

39 

Hawkings Point 

@mumpacktravel 

ACTIVITIES 

Lovers LOVERS Bay WHITE ROCK 

Maud BAY 

Bay 

PICNIC 

BAY 

4k 4K 

Nobby 

Headland 

6 

8K 

Doctor Clinic 

4 

WHITE LADY 

BAY 

HORSESHOE 

HORSESHOE 

BAY 

BAY 

0K 0 

THE POINT 

6k 6K 

3b 7k 

HSB LAGOON 

5k 5K 

ARCADIA 

ARCADIA 

5 

3 

2k 2K 

The 

THE Forts FORTS 

4k 4K 

8k 8K 

7K 7k 

6k 6K 

Alma ALMA Bay BAY 

GEOFFREY Geoffrey BAY Bay 

Bright BRIGHT Point POINT 

BALDING Balding BAY Bay 

RADICAL Radical BAYBay 

WHITFIELD 

COVE 

BREMNER POINT 

Arthur ARTHUR Bay 

BAY 

ORCHARD 

ROCKS 

GOWRIE Gowrie 

Bay BAY 

FLORENCE Florence 

BAY Bay 

NELLY 

BAY NELLY BAY 

Car ROCKY Rocky BAY Bay Passenger CAR & PASSENGER FERRIES 

Ferry8km to Townsville 

Passenger 

N 

HAWKINGS POINT Ferry 0 1 2 3 

Hawkings 

0 1 2 3 

Point 

kilometres 

Kilometres 

See page 100 for detailed map trails! 

1 

2 

2b 

Take plenty of drinking 

water (see page 97) and sun 

protection with you on the 

longer walks, especially 

to the uninhabited bays 

On the horizon topped with an antennae is Mt 

Stuart, the highest peak in the area. The Casino 

and the Entertainment Centre are in the foreground 

with the city centre behind, and above 

The Strand towers Castle Hill. Continuing along 

the coast to your right is Kissing Point, then 

Pallarenda (the closest point to the mainland). 

Now to the other side of the lookout there is a 

great view of Rocky Bay just below, then along 

Nelly Bay beach to the harbour and on to Geoffrey 

Bay with Arcadia in the distance. Looking towards 

the centre of the Island you will find Mt Cook, at 

497 metres, it’s the highest peak on the Island. 

7 Picnic Bay To West Point 8km (2.5hrs) 

Following the road past the golf course, this 

walk is along the bush track that links the bays 

on the western side of the Island. This area is 

very different to the rest of the Island. The track 

passes alongside tidal wetlands, mangroves and 

saltwater swamps, over four freshwater creeks 

(after rain), through savannah grasslands and 

paperbark trees. 

Take sturdy footwear, lots of drinking water, and 

a can of insect repellant, but your reward will be 

seeing the animals and the birds of the wetlands. 

At the end of the walk you will be on West Point 

beach the closest point to the mainland. 

! Arcadia Nature Trail Map 

Visit arcadiacoastcare.com.au to download 

an easy walk with many hidden gems!

40 

ACTIVITIES 

Entertainment & Sport 

Many of the Island’s restaurants and bars feature 

live music or laid-back afternoon sessions. 

Live Entertainment - Comedy Cabaret 

Shows, held regularly, Stage Door Theatre 

Restaurant Hayles Ave. Arcadia. Call 4778 5448. 

- Fire Shows, live music and performances, held 

regularly at Scallywags Cafe. Call 0403 944 104. 

Live Music 

Arcadia Village Hotel, Arcadia (Every Saturday) 

Bungalow Bay, Horseshoe Bay (Most Saturdays) 

Sandi’s On Magnetic, Horseshoe Bay (Sat & Sun) 

Poker Machines 

Arcadia Village Hotel, Arcadia. 

Picnic Bay Hotel, Picnic Bay. 

Lawn Bowls - Tuesday names in by 1pm. 

Friday triples names in by 1pm. Social Bowls by 

arrangement. Bowls Club, Arcadia. Call 4778 5290 

Golf - Magnetic Island Country Club 

Hurst St, Picnic Bay. Phone 4778 5188. 

Skate Park - Horseshoe Bay Rec Oval 

Magnetic Island Markets 

Magnetic Island Markets - Horseshoe Bay 

beachfront every Sunday between Easter and 

late January. 9am to 2pm. For more details visit 

‘Magnetic Island Markets’ on Facebook. 

Annual Events/Shows 

Mother’s Day Classic: 8 May 2022 

Two Bays Trail Run: 21 May 2022 

Northern Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA): 

10 June - 10 July 2022 

NTI Townsville 500: 8 - 10 July 2022 

Magnetic Island to Townsville Open Water 

Swim: 30 July 2022 

Australian Festival of Chamber Music: 

29 July - 7 August 2022 

The Great Island Trek: 10 September 2022 

Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week inc. 

Rotary Beer Can Regatta: 1 - 7 September 2022 

For the latest list of Magnetic Island’s major 

events, live music, Island galleries and 

more, visit whatsonmagneticisland.com.au 

Island Art 

It must be the natural beauty of the Island 

and surrounding ocean that inspires so much 

creativity. The Island has an unusually large 

number of talented people working in a 

variety of artistic fields. 

Galleries, markets and shops display and sell 

paintings, pottery, sculpture, printed silk, handcrafted 

fashions and jewellery all influenced by 

the vibrant tropical colours.

41 

ACTIVITIES 

Photo by Matt Whitton 

MAP 

REF 

25 

MAP 

REF 

16 

MAP 

REF 

23

42 

TRANSPORT 

Gabul Way 

@InnesBellesi 

Island Transport 

There are many ways of getting around the 

20+ kilometres of scenic Magnetic Island roads. 

Hire a modern, air-conditioned sedan or 

hatch and cruise the Island in comfort. 

Lightweight, fuel efficient, low emission 

vehicles are the latest addition to the range 

of vehicles available on the Island. 

Please be 

aware of 

wildlife and 

drive carefully 

as you explore 

the Island’s 

twenty plus 

kilometres of 

scenic roads 

Four wheel 

drives are the way 

to go if you wish 

to experience the 

Island’s tranquil, 

more out of the 

way beaches and 

bays such as West 

Point. 

NB: Check for road 

conditions on the 

West Point Road 

during wet season 

Dec-April. 

Scooters are a 

great, fun option 

and you just need 

a car license. 

Trail bikes are a more adventurous option 

for those with a motorcycle license who also 

enjoy exploring the Island’s more remote 

beauty spots. 

Bicycles are available for hire if you are 

fit and keen to take on the Island’s hills and 

headlands. 

eScooters (electric) are also available from 

Nelly Bay to Geoffrey Bay. 

The local bus service meets every ferry and 

their very convenient, Island-wide timetable 

is near the back of this guide. Ticket options 

include one way trips, as well as all day and 

multi- day passes. 

Taxis are available also. 

A taxi or bus is the best way to get “home” 

after enjoying a few drinks and a great night 

out at one of the Island’s many venues. 

Guided tours of the Island can be done 

by tour bus complete with a commentary. 

You can also circumnavigate the Island 

on the water by jetski, kayak or with a wide 

variety of boating and fishing tours.

43 

Car 

Rental 

See more, do more, have more fun! 

TRANSPORT 

Hyundai Accent 

$69 per day 

Fiat 500C 

$89 per day 

Go topless around Magnetic Island in one of our 

fun convertibles, explore in a 4WD, or simply 

get where you want, when you want, in our late 

model hatches and sedans. 

Our cars are quality, air conditioned, late model 

vehicles. Rent a car to see all Magnetic Island’s 

beautiful sites and activities at your convenience. 

and make a good holiday even better. See our 

fun range of hire cars at bestofmagnetic.com 

Child and booster seat hire is available. 

Prices are correct as at 01/03/2021 but may be subject to change. 

Mazda MX-5 

$99 per day 

Magnetic Island’s best hire cars and best deals 

BOOK ONLINE at 

bestofmagnetic.com 

or call 07 4778 5955 

Shop 3 IGA Shopping Centre Nelly Bay 

Our car hire office is located only meters from the ferry 

Ferry 

Terminal 

IGA 

Car Park

44 

Gabul Way 

TRANSPORT

45 

MAP 

REF 

22 

TRANSPORT 

MAP 

REF 

3

46 

Geoffrey Bay 

TRANSPORT 

Share your experiences 

and memories from ‘Maggie’

47 

MAP 

REF 

12 

TRANSPORT

48 

TRANSPORT

49 

TRANSPORT

50 

DINING - BAR

51 

Dining Guide 

LICENSED/BYO (EVE) 

BREAKFAST/LUNCH 

TAKE AWAY/SNACKS 

PAGE 

Adele’s Cafe H/Bay 0498 630 900 l l 67 

Arcadia Store & Fuel Arcadia 4778 5387 l 87 

Arcadia Village Hotel Arcadia 4778 5177 L l l 55 

Baked on Maggie Arcadia 4758 1860 L l l 69 

Barefoot Art Food Wine H/Bay 4758 1170 L l 59 

Brasserie & Take Away @ Nelly 4778 5044 L l l 52 

Brkfast. w/ Koalas H/Bay 4778 5577 L l 13 

Cafe Nourish H/Bay 4758 1885 l l 67 

Fruit N Scoops Nelly 4778 5144 L l l 61 

Island Dosa Nelly Facebook msg L l 62 

Man Friday Nelly 4778 5658 B l 63 

Maggie Is. Brewery Picnic Facebook msg L l l 67 

Magnetic Island RSL Arcadia 0458 136 410 L 69 

Nelly Bay Cafe Nelly 0416 795 138 l l 69 

Patisserie & Gour. Pies @ Nelly 4778 5044 l l 65 

Peppers Boardwalk Nelly 4758 2419 L l 59 

Pizza & Take Away @ Nelly 4778 5044 l l 53 

Saltwater Nelly 0414 352 762 L 69 

Sandi’s on Magnetic H/Bay 4758 1673 L l l 57 

Scallywags Cafe Nelly 0458 492 452 B l l 63 

Smuggler’s Wine Bar Nelly 0478 848 228 L l l 62 

Stage Door Theatre Arcadia 4727 9797 L 41 

Stuffed on Seafood Nelly 4758 1222 L l l 61 

Tiny Palm Coffee Nelly 0431 388 281 l l 67 

The Early Bird Cafe HSB 4758 1195 l l 69 

Up The Garden Path Nelly 4778 5200 L l l 65 

Tantalise your taste buds 

One of the most enjoyable parts of being on 

holiday is dining out. 

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. 

The choice and variety on the Island is surprising, 

ranging from fine dining to casual, at 

award winning restaurants, in air-conditioned 

comfort or al fresco under the stars. 

The local cuisine includes Mediterranean, 

Italian, Mexican, English, French, International, 

Thai and Australian. 

With the abundance of local seafood, high 

quality Australian meat and exotic tropical 

fruits, a light refreshing style of food has 

developed that suits the climate. Innovative 

and creative menus have a distinctive North 

Queensland style and taste. The wide variety 

of restaurants, cafes, bistros, coffee shops, 

takeaways and gourmet delicatessens cater 

for all tastes and all budgets. There are some 

wonderful taste sensations to tantalise your 

taste buds, so indulge - you are on holidays! 

NOTE: Most eateries are licensed or BYO, 

(Bring Your Own alcohol) and also close 

their kitchens by 8pm, so remember to 

order early and stay to enjoy your meal! 

DINING - BAR

52 

MAP 

REF 

14 

DINING - BAR

53 

DINING - BAR

54 

DINING - BAR

55 

DINING - BAR

56 

Horseshoe Bay 

DINING - BAR

57 

DINING - BAR

58 

DINING - BAR

59 

DINING - BAR

60 


@arcadiabeachapartments4 

DINING - BAR

61 

MAP 

REF 

18 

DINING - BAR 

MAP 

REF 

19

62 

DINING - BAR 

Nelly Bay Harbour 

@rach-rebecca 

MAP 

REF 

9

63 

MAP 

REF 

11 

DINING - BAR 

MAP 

REF 

17

64 

Hawkings Radical Point Track Bay 

@ms_t_le 

DINING - BAR

65 

MAP 

REF 

13 

DINING - BAR 

MAP 

REF 

15

66 

Cockle Bay & 

City of Adelaide 

@jaxonfoale 

DINING - BAR

MAP REF 

1 

67 

DINING - BAR 

MAP 

REF 

30 

MAP 

REF 

31 

MAP 

REF 

6

68 

West Point 

Photo Beat Lehmann 

DINING - BAR

69 

MAP 

REF 

26 

DINING - BAR 

MAP 

REF 

21 

MAP 

REF 

28

70 

ACCOMMODATION 

Photo Terese Gill

71 

An Island of many 

accommodation options 

There is a wide variety of accommodation to 

suit everyone’s needs. 

Whether you are on your own, a family or a 

whole bus load, on a budget or looking for 

luxury, you will find “just the place”. 

From luxury 

waterfront 

resorts and 

apartments, 

to backpacker 

resorts and 

B&B’s, you’re 

never far 

from the 

beach 

There are hotels, 

luxury resorts and 

apartments, selfcontained 

holiday 

units, bed and 

breakfasts, holiday 

houses, backpacker 

resorts and 

some camping 

facilities. 

Wherever you 

choose, you will 

be most welcome, 

and you’re only a 

short walk from 

the beach! 

ACCOMMODATION

72 

Radical Bay 

ACCOMMODATION

73 

ACCOMMODATION

74 

Picnic Bay 

@arcadiabeachpapartments 4 

ACCOMMODATION

75 

MAP 

REF 

3 

ACCOMMODATION 

MAP 

REF 

22

Nelly Bay 

76 

West Point 

ACCOMMODATION

77 

ACCOMMODATION

78 

Nelly Bay 

ACCOMMODATION

79 

ACCOMMODATION 

Picnic Bay 

MAP 

REF 

2 

MAP 

REF 

10

80 

WEDDINGS 

Photo by Andrew Rankin

81 

An Island Wedding (or special occasion) 

The Island is the perfect place for a 

wedding, function or special occasion, not 

only because of its’ natural beauty, but also 

because everything you need is right here. 

Whether you’re looking for a formal service 

with a huge marquee and all the trimmings, 

a function room at a luxury resort, a tropical 

garden setting or a quiet service on the beach 

at sunset, it can all be arranged for your 

perfect day. 

Magnetic 

Island’s 

natural 

beauty is 

the perfect 

setting for 

a wonderful 

wedding to 

remember 

for the rest 

of your 

lives 

It’s all here, 

great venues, 

tropical gardens, 

unique transport, 

resident marriage 

celebrants, 

experienced 

people to take 

care of everything 

including 

hairdressing and 

beauty salon 

requirements, 

photographers, 

caterers and even 

musicians. 

Your guests have a wide range of accommodation 

to choose from, a beautiful island 

to explore and a host of activities to make 

their stay and your wedding a wonderful and 

special memory to share. 

MAP 

REF 

17 

SAY ‘I DO’ 

Wedding planner and 

coordinator available 

61-79 Mandalay Avenue, 

Nelly Bay 

amarooonmandalay.com 

07 4778 5200 

WEDDINGS

82 

WEDDINGS 


83 

MAP 

REF 

5 

WEDDINGS

84 

WEDDINGS 


85 

WEDDINGS

86 

SERVICES 

Shops & Services 

Almost anything can be purchased on 

the Island. 

There are shops in all four main residential 

bays including men and women’s fashion, 

top brand surf wear and accessories, hair and 

beauty salons, newsagent, supermarkets, 

dive shops, chemist souvenir and gift shops, 

hardware store, fishing and boating needs, 

real estate agents, coffee shops, general 

stores, bank, craft shop, galleries and a post 

office. Many shops have locally produced 

items for sales. 

Enjoy a 

tranquil Island 

retreat, with 

all the services 

you could 

wish for 

As well as 

shops, the Island 

also offers a wide 

range of services 

such as information, 

booking and 

internet facilities. 

For total 

relaxation and 

wellbeing, a spa, 

masseuses and 

natural therapies 

are available. 

For health and 

fitness there are 

Shopping 86 - 95 

• Gifts & Clothing 

• Newsagent & Pharmacy 

• Post Office 

• Supermarkets 

Health & Beauty 92 - 93 

• Hair & Beauty 

• Locally Made Health/Home Products 

• Massage & Wellbeing 

Island Services Directory 94 

• Emergency Contacts 

• Marine Stinger Information 

• Bank & Agencies 

• Baby Sitting & Child Care 

• Churches, Clubs & Organisations 

• General Information & Internet Access 

Other services 

• Freight 

• Radio & What’s On 

organised training sessions and yoga classes, 

all available in such a beautiful, healthy, and 

pollution-free environment. 

Medical facilities available include an outpatients 

clinic and a medical practise as well 

as a well stocked pharmacy.

87 

MAP 

REF 

20 

SERVICES

88 

Alma Bay 

@arcadiabeachapartments4 

SERVICES 

MAP 

REF 

29

89 

SERVICES

90 

Horseshoe Bay 

SERVICES

91 

See your photo in print! 

Tag @magneticislandguide in 

your Magnetic Island photos 

for your chance to be featured 

in the next issue! 

Discounts and specials 

Like us to stay up to date with 

discounts and special offers 

from our advertisers! 

Visit us online! 


What’s on? 

For all the latest information 

on entertainment, live music, 

exhibitions, events, exercise 

and health classes visit: 

whatsonmagneticisland 

.com.au 

SERVICES

92 

SERVICES

93 

SERVICES 

Arthur Bay 

@jocainsnappy

94 

Island Services Directory 

SERVICES 

SHOPPING 

Shopping Hours: Most shops are open 6 days a week. 

Dining: Most restaurants close their kitchens at 8pm so 

please place your meal orders by 7.30pm. 

Post Office Hours: MI Post Office, Nelly Bay. 

Mon to Fri: 9am - 5pm Sat: 9am - 12noon 

Mail closing times: PO Nelly Bay 3.00pm 

and all Island Posting Boxes: Mon - Fri 2pm. 

Mobile Phone Coverage: Telstra cover in all populated 

bays. Other providers have patchy coverage. 

Directory Assistance: 1223 

Translating & Interpreting Service: 131 450 (24hr) 

BANK & AGENCIES 

Qld Country Bank - Sooning St, Nelly Bay. 

Multiple Bank Agents (Over 70) 

- Magnetic Island Post Office, Nelly Bay. 

ATM - Qld Country Bank (24hr) Nelly Bay, IGA Breezeway 

Nelly Bay, Picnic Bay Hotel, Horseshoe Bay Store, and 

Foodworks Nelly Bay (in store). 

EFTPOS Facilities - Widely available throughout 

the Island. 

CHURCHES 

Anglican Church - Endeavour Road, Arcadia 

Service: 5pm Saturday. Ph: 4778 5628 

Fellowship from 4.30pm 

Catholic Church - Cook Road, Arcadia 

Service: 5.15pm Saturday. Ph: 4758 1072 

Uniting Church - Turnbridge St. Nelly Bay 

Service: 9am Sunday. Ph: 4758 1578 

CHILD CARE 

Magnetic Island Childcare Centre. Ph: 4758 1168 

CHILD/BABY SITTERS 

Visit whatsonmagneticisland.com.au for details. 

INTERNET ACCESS 

Free WiFi is located at the Arcadia Village Hotel. 

Most accommodation also offer free WiFi. 

LOCAL NEWS Visit magneticcommunitynews.com 

ISLAND SPEED LIMIT: 60kph 

School zone 40kph (Check signs for hours) 

There are police on patrol on the Island so drive 

safely, and don’t drink and drive. 

EMERGENCY NUMBERS 

Police: 000 (Enquiries 4778 5270) 

Rescue Services: 4778 5270 

Fire: 000 

Ambulance: 000 (Enquiries: 4778 5225) 

Doctor, Nelly Bay: 4778 5614 

Veterinary: 4778 5977 

RACQ: 131 111 

Road Report: 4775 3600 

Poison Information Centre: 131 126 (24hr) 

Weather: 1196 

Recorded message for boating and fishing. 

National Park: 4778 5378 

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: 4750 0700 

Magnetic Island Fauna Care (MIFCO): 0457 634 732 

(Injured or orphaned wildlife) 

Mobile Library: 0427 379 785 

Arcadia Surf Life Saving Club: 4778 5315 

Bowls Club: 4778 5290 

Golf Club: 4778 5188 

Lions Club: 0427 785 468 

RSL Sub Branch (Arcadia): 4758 1233 

Rotary Club: 4758 1345 

Senior Citizens: 4758 1506 

MARINE STINGERS 

Swimming in tropical waters from October to April 

should be done with care. Although most marine 

stingers cause discomfort the box jelly fish is 

considered the most severe. 

If a sting occurs, do not rub, pour liberally with 

vinegar, be prepared to give respiratory resuscitation 

and call the ambulance on 000. A life threatening 

sting is rare. 

Stinger resistant enclosures are located at Picnic Bay 

and Horseshoe Bay. Alma Bay is patrolled by lifesavers 

on the weekends. Protective lycra suits are available 

for hire (and also provide sun protection).

95 

Tom Thumb (Sails Rock) 

@ms_t_le 

SERVICES

96 

GREEN GUIDE

97 

Eco-savvy Holiday Tips 

Refill your water bottle for FREE, or take 

your coffee away in your own cup. 

Turn off your air conditioner when you 

leave your accommodation. It’ll only take 

5 minutes to cool down once you return. 

Having a party? Rinse and recycle your 

10c return bottles and donate to one of our 

local volunteer organisations: Zero Waste 

Magnetic Island, MIFCO, Wallaby Refuge and 

MINT. Visit zerowastemi.org.au/where-torecycle 

for drop off locations and 10c container 

return details. 

Take care when driving! Our wildlife can 

pop up at a moment’s notice any time of the 

day or night. Keep an eye out for slow moving 

animals like koalas, echidnas and curlews. 

Be a wildlife warrior and call MIFCO if you 

see an injured animal on the road, or contact 

Magnetic Island Network for Turtles via 

Facebook if you see injured turtles on the beach. 

Love beach combing? Take an extra bag and 

hunt for plastics and other marine debris. 

Get your hands dirty helping the National 

Park Volunteers remove weeds from our 

National Park. For information contact Carolyn 

Dixon at dixonbailey@icloud.com 

Visit the Lifeline Op Shop in Nelly Bay for 

clothing, books and other handy items. 

Dispose of your rubbish in the bin (recycle if 

possible), and not at the beach or in the bush. 

And lastly, please don’t drive on the beach. 

Turtles and birds nest in the sand dunes. Thanks :) 

GREEN GUIDE

98 


@ms_t_lee 

GREEN GUIDE

99 

GREEN GUIDE

100 

Magnetic Island 

Scale 

0 

Rollingstone 

Bay 

1 2 3 4km 

Five 

Beach Bay 

Lovers Bay 

Maud Bay 

Norris Bay 

Huntingfield 

Joyce Bay 

Bay Wilson Bay 

White Rock 

8k 

West 

Point 

12k 

Young Bay 

Bolger Bay 

Magnetic Island 

National Park 

Mount Cook 

(493m) 

To Picnic Bay 

4 

Drive 

Sooning Street 

6 

Ferry terminal 

inset map 

Arcadia Road 

5 

To Arcadia 

7 

Doct 

Sooning Street 

Harbour 

Shops 

To Horseshoe 

Bay 

Forts Junction 

inset map 

3 

1 

MAPS-TIMETABLES 

Ferry 

terminal 

Inset Legend 

Pathway 

Scale 

0 

Road 

25 50m 

Pedestrian area 

Pedestrian refuge 

Map not 

to scale 

4 

Parking 

General store 

Bus stop 

Horseshoe Bay Road 

To Arcadia 

2 

Disabled parking 

Scooter parking 

Bike racks 

Radical Bay Road 

Cockle Bay 

Nobby Head 

4k 

Picnic 

Bay

101 

or 

Horseshoe Bay 

4 

6 

Nelly 

Bay 

Rocky Bay 

White Lady 

Bay 

Forts Junction (see inset) 

0k 

Hawkings 

Point 

6k 

Arcadia 

5 

3 

The 

Forts 

Bright Point 

1 


(see inset ) 

Balding 

Bay 

8k 

2 

Geoffrey Bay 

Nelly Bay Harbour 

Walking Routes Legend 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5k 

2k 

4k 

Key destination sites 

6k 

Forts Walk – Florence Bay 

Radical 

Bay 

7k 

Forts Junction – Horseshoe Bay 

Forts Junction – Horseshoe Bay 

Arthur 

Bay 

Alma Bay 

Bremner Point 

Forts Junction – Nelly Bay – Arcadia 

5 

6 

7 

2k 

Orchard Rocks 

Gowrie 

Bay 

Florence Bay 

Searchlight Tower 

Arthur Bay 

lookout 

Sphinx lookout 

Whitfield Cove 

Arcadia – Nelly Bay 

Nelly Bay – Picnic Bay 

Picnic Bay – West Point 

Distance ex ferry term. 

All lookouts 

Legend 

National park 

Conservation 

park 

Other lands 

Marine park 

Beach 

Mangroves 

Reef 

National Park 

walking track 

Pathway 

Sealed road 

Unsealed road 

Mountain 

Shipwrecks 

Koalas 

WWII heritage 

QPWS Lookout 

Snorkelling 

Surf lifesaving 

patrol 

Information 

Toilets 

Drinking water 

Bus stop 


Parking 

Commercial 

centre 

Boat ramps 

Fuel 

MAPS-TIMETABLES

YULE 

SWENSEN ST 

PIRIE 

PARKER ST 

DOLPHIN CRT 

102 


< To Pollard St 

Carpark & Beach 

To Westpoint > 

HORSESHOE 

BAY 

APJOHN ST 

WALLABY 

WAY 

ESPLANADE 

JETTY 

PANDANUS 

SANDALS BLVD 

TIRAMULLA 

BIRT ST 

PACIFIC DRIVE 

HENRY LAWSON 

RINTOUL 

CORICA CRS 

HSB 

LAGOON 

GIFFORD ST 

WANSFELL ST 

BARBARRA ST 

PICNIC ST 

CARLSON 

McELLIGOTT 

< To The Forts, 

Arcadia, Alma, Nelly 

and Picnic Bays 

PIETRO 

Picnic Bay 

1. Maggie Island Brewery 

2. Butterfly House Accommodation 

3. Tropical Palms Resort & 4WD Hire 

4. Magnetic Museum & Craft Centre 

5. Magnetic Island Country (Golf) Club 

5 

HURST ST 

HOBBS ST 

3 

2 

GRANITE 

4 

28 

1 

WIDDOWSON 

MAGNETIC 

32 

34 33 31 

29 30 

HORSESHOE BAY RD 

27 

BUTLER 

HEATH ST 

APJOHN ST 

DENT ST 

BAYSIDE CRT 

HSB 

REC 

OVAL 

To Balding, > 

Radical, 

Florence & 

Arthur Bays 

YORK CRT 

To JADYN & 

OLIVIA CRTS > 

BOND CRT 

NAUTILUS 

BAY VISTA CRT 

SOMERSET CRT 

WEST 

POINT 

PICNIC 

BAY 

NELLY BAY RD 

ROCKY 

BAY 

HAWKINGS POINT 

12K 


NATIONAL PARK 

Business 

Horseshoe Bay 

27. Bungalow Bay 

Wildlife Park 

28. The Early Bird Cafe 

29. Horseshoe Bay Store 

30. Cafe Nourish 

31. Adele’s Cafe 

32. Island Time Cruises 

33. Horseshoe Bay Watersports 

Fishing Charters 

34. Jet Ski Hire Magnetic Island 

MOUNT COOK 

497 metres 

PICNIC 

BAY 

4K 

8K 

Doctor 

UNSEALED ROAD 

DINING/TAKE AWAY 

LOOKOUT 

STINGER NETS 

SNORKEL TRAIL 

SHIPWRECK 


FUEL 

HORSESHOE 

BAY 

ARCADIA 

0K 

NELLY BAY 

BOAT RAMP 

6K 

5K 

2K 

THE FORTS 

4K 

8K 

6K 

7K 

ALMA BAY 

GEOFFREY BAY 

N

Finder 

Arcadia 

20. Arcadia Store & Fuel 

21. Baked On Maggie Bar & Grill 

22. Arcadia Beach Car Hire 

& Guest House 

23. Peter Lawson Fine Art 

24. Pleasure Divers 

25. Stage Door Theatre 

Restaurant 

26. Magnetic Island RSL 

ARCADIA 

< To Nelly Bay 

MARINE PARADE 

20 

McCABE 

MIRIMAR CRES 

MIRABEL 

HAYLES AVE 

BRIGHT 

21 

26 

McCABE 

HORDERN 

22 

ENDEAVOUR RD 

APPIAN 

RHEUBEN TRC 

25 

COOK RD 

HAYLES AVE 

23 24 

GEOFFREY BAY 

OLYMPUS CRES 

ARMAND WAY 

HORSESHOE BAY RD 

To Horseshoe Bay > 

ALMA BAY 

BREMNER 

POINT 

103 

Nelly Bay 

6. Tiny Palm Coffee 

7. Pro Dive Magnetic Island 

8. Sea School International 

9. Smuggler’s Wine Bar 

10. Island Palms Resort 

11. Man Friday 

12. Road Runner Scooter Hire 

13. Patisserie & Gourmet Pies 

14. Brasserie & Take Away 

15. Up The Garden Path 

Restaurant and 

Amaroo On Mandalay 

16. Louver Gallery 

17. Scallywags Cafe 

18. Stuffed on Seafood (SOS) 

19. Fruits N Scoops 

HIDEAWAY 

ESTATE 

WHEATON 

COLETON 

NERITA 

CRES 

TRANA 

12 

ELENA 

BOWERMAN 

YATES 

GUSTAV 

COMPASS 

SEXTANT 

SERENE 

LILAC 

NERITA 

CRT 

OPALIA 

< To 

Picnic 

Bay 

MANDALAY 

BARTON 

MANGO PARKWAY 

TURNBRIDGE 

THE GROVE 

KELLY 

6 

15 

NELLY BAY RD 

MURRAY 

WARBOYS 

9 

8 

7 

JEAN 

DOROTHY 

LINTERN 

CLARKE 

THE ESPLANADE 

GRACE 

14 

13 

BOTTIGER 

SHAW 

16 

SOONING ST 

TERRACE 

WINIFRED 

COLEEN 

OSBORNE 

ROBSON 

10 

THE COVE 

11 

NELLY BAY 

18 

17 

KIRK ST 

MAGNETIC 

HARBOUR 

19 

To Geoffery Bay, 

Arcadia, Alma Bay & 

Horseshoe Bay > 

BOULDER CRT 

GABUL WAY 

MAPS-TIMETABLES

104 

Business Directory 

Business 


Activities 

Aquascene Cruises 0439 785 216 

PAGE 

21 

Best Bus Tours 0435 580 292 12 

Big Mama Sailing 0437 206 360 27 

Bungalow Bay Wildlife Tours 4778 5577 13 

Get Around Boat Tours 4778 5909 25 

Horseshoe Bay Watersports& Fish 4758 1336 27 

Island Time Cruises 0499 996 653 23 & 108 

Jet Ski Hire Magnetic Island 4758 1100 17 

Louver Gallery 0419 797 634 41 

Magnetic Island Country (Golf) Club 4778 5188 15 

Magnetic Museum & Craft Shop 4778 5606 15 

Peter Lawson Fine Art 0418 727 534 41 

Pilgrim Sailing 0424 296406 26 

Pleasure Divers 4778 5788 31 

Pro Dive Magnetic Island 4778 5506 29 

Sea School International 4778 5506 29 

Stage Door Theatre Restaurant 4727 9797 41 

The Beach Club 0424 296 406 26 

Utopia Fishing Charters 0476 663 362 25 

Transport 

Arcadia Beach Guest House & Car Hire 4778 5668 45 

Best of Magnetic Car Rental 4778 5955 43 

Magnetic Island Ferries 4796 9300 49 & 107 

Road Runner Scooter Hire 4778 5222 47 

Sealink Ferry Service 1300 624 443 48 & 107 

Sunbus 4778 5132 106 

Tropical Palms 4WD Hire 4778 5076 45 

Restaurants, Cafes & Take Away 

Adele’s Cafe 0498 630 900 67 

Arcadia Village Hotel 4778 5177 55 

Baked On Maggie Bar & Grill 4758 1860 69 

Barefoot Art Food Wine 4758 1170 59 

Restaurants, Cafes & T/Away Continued 

PAGE 

Brasserie & Take Away @ Nelly 4778 5044 52 

Breakfast w Koalas (Bungalow B) 4778 5577 13 

Cafe Nourish 4758 1885 67 

Fruits N Scoops 4758 1444 61 

Island Dosa @magneticislanddosa 62 

Man Friday 4778 5658 63 

Maggie Island Brewery @maggieislandbrewery 67 

Magnetic Island RSL 0458 136 410 69 

Nelly Bay Cafe 0416 795 138 69 

Patisserie & Gourmet Pies 4778 5044 65 

Peppers Boardwalk Restaurant 4758 2419 59 

Pizza & Take Away @ Nelly 4778 5044 53 

Saltwater 0414 352 762 69 

Sandi’s on Magnetic 4758 1673 57 

Scallywag’s Cafe 0458 492 452 63 

Smuggler’s Wine Bar 0478 848 228 62 

Stage Door Theatre Restaurant 4727 9797 41 

Stuffed on Seafood (SOS) 4758 1222 61 

Tiny Palm Coffee 0431 388 281 67 

The Early Bird Cafe 4758 1195 69 

Up The Garden Path (Amaroo) 4778 5200 65 

Accommodation 

Arcadia Beach Guest House 4778 5668 75 

Best of Magnetic 4778 5955 73 

Butterfly House Accommodation 0413 809 765 79 

Island Palms 4778 5571 79 

Maggie’s Beachfront Apartments 4778 5955 73 

Magnetic Sunsets Resort 4758 1900 77 

Marguerite’s on Magnetic 0429 954 457 79 

Pure Magnetic 4778 5955 73 

Shambhala 0448 160 580 79 

Tropical Palms Inn 4778 5076 75 

True North B&B 0400 564 430 77

105 

Weddings 

Amaroo on Mandalay 

PAGE 

4778 520081 

Beat Lehmann Photography 0428 269 99285 

Bernadette Smith, Celebrant 0422 746 91283 

Eronda Ceremonies 0416 272 806 83 

MI Country (Golf) Club Functions 4778 5188 83 

Magnetic Island Party Hire 4758 1650 85 

MaryAnne Law Photography 0417 750 500 85 

Shops & Services 

Arcadia Store & Fuel 4778 5387 87 

Arcadia Newsagency 4778 5302 95 

Doctor 4778 5614 94 

Louver Gallery 0419 797 634 41 

Horseshoe Bay Store 4778 5080 88 

Magnetic Island Foodworks 4778 5722 89 

MI Fauna Care Organisation 0457 634 732 99 

Magnetic Island Pharmacy 4778 5375 88 

Magnetic Island Ring Recovery (See Facebook) 11 

Magnetic Island Transport 4778 5334 95 

Peter Lawson Fine Art 0418 727 534 41 

Tide Times - 34 

Triple T FM 4721 5333 91 

Wallaby Refuge 0400 243 842 99 

What’s On Magnetic Island - 91 

Zero Waste Magnetic Island zerowastemi.org.au97 

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing 

Dahlia Soul dahliasoul.com 93 

Hair By The Bay 0431 599 134 93 

Lunakasha 0449 155 374 92 

Magnetic Bliss 0416 272 806 92 

Massage on Magnetic 0409 164 113 92 

Shine Your Light Bright 0410 664 801 92 

Utter Pure Indulgence 0482 568 011 93 

THE ULTIMATE 

Magnetic Island Guide 

For tourism and booking enquiries please 

contact the advertisers directly. 

See your photo in print! 

Tag @magneticislandguide in 

your Magnetic Island photos for 

your chance to be featured in the 

next issue! 

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Published by Butterfly House Web and Graphic 

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MAPS-TIMETABLES

106 

Bus Timetable 

Effective 13 December 2021 

Picnic Bay to Horseshoe Bay 

PHONE 07 4778 5130 

Horseshoe Bay to Picnic Bay 

MAPS-TIMETABLES

Ferry Timetables 

107 

PLEASE NOTE: All timetables may be subject to change. Please check with the respective 

operators if you have connecting travel arrangements. 

PASSENGER & CAR FERRY 

PASSENGER FERRY 

Mon - Sat* 5.30am 6.00am 

Mon - Sun 6.30am 7.00am 

Mon - Sat* 7.00am 7.45am 




Mon - Sun 10.30am 11.05am 

Mon - Sun 11.40am 12.15pm 

Mon - Sun 1.00pm 1.35pm 




Mon - Fri* 5.25pm 6.00pm 




Wed - Sat* 10.30pm 11.00pm 

*Indicates services that may not operate on 

Public Holidays. See website for further information. 

BOOK ONLINE AND SAVE 

For the latest 

timetable visit 

sealinkqld.com.au 

CALL 1300 624 443 

Departs from the Breakwater Terminal 

Sir Theiss Drive, Townsville 

MAPS-TIMETABLES

MAP 

REF 

32 

See page 23 for our 

Sunset Cruises!

Magnetic Island Guide Winter 2022

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