MAGNETIC ISLAND

Magnetic Island is Townsville's island playground. Featuring prominently in the city's profile the island is only 20 minutes from the city centre by regular fast catamarans.

Two thirds of Magnetic Island is national park featuring huge strands of eucalyptus trees and abundant wildlife, including koalas and varied birdlife. There are 23 beaches and bays with golden sand; many readily accessible but some providing for absolute privacy. There are nearly 25 km of walking tracks so its easy to find one suitable for your level offitness.

For the holidaymaker, activities are plentiful including beach horseriding, parasailing, snorkelling, water activities, golf, tennis, reef and fishingtrips.

Buses run regularly from one part of the island to another, whilst those who prefer to be independent can hire bicycles, mopeds, mini mokes and othervehicles.

Magnetic Island is the only Barrier Reef island to offer a wide range of accommodation and holiday houses. Tropical style resorts, units and backpacker establishments are also available. This extensive choice of accommodation, natural attractions and activities give the island its characteristic charm and laid-back holiday atmosphere.

Magnetic International Resort Magnetic Island
Base Magnetic Island

Getting to Magnetic Island is easy. Fast cats operate up to 19 services day and night departing from the Breakwater terminals in Townsville. There are also several daily vehicular barge services for those wishing to take their own car. These leave from a terminal in South Townsville.

Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre operates a museum in the heritage listed Picnic Bay School and the historic, relocated Butler Hut. Magnetic Museum shows Island history through permanent displays in the Butler Memorial Room and the school, and by changing and annual exhibitions. 'What happened to the Presto and other histories', an exhibition of change, is currently on display. In Butler Hut the Hayles Room for Research can be used by visitors. Historical publications and locally made craft are sold in the school.
Open 10am to 2pm (closed Tuesdays) from Easter to Australia Day.

Magnetic Island is a charming holiday destination characterised by the fact that it is an island community, with a resident population of over 2000. Therefore, the island is one of the most unique and varied of the Great Barrier Reef islands.