Things to do
Beaches
Magnetic Island is situated in the middle of the Word Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and boasts some of the best beaches in the world. The beaches of Magnetic Island stand as a picturesque testament to nature's beauty and diversity. Each one offers a unique blend of tranquility, adventure, and stunning vistas. From the powdery sands and crystal-clear waters of Horseshoe Bay to the secluded coves of Radical Bay, the island's beaches cater to every mood and preference. Picnic Bay presents a charming coastal village atmosphere, while Alma Bay offers family-friendly shallows perfect for swimming and snorkelling. West Point Beaches captivate with their rugged, untouched allure, and the golden stretches of Geoffrey Bay promise enchanting sunsets and an occasional glimpse of local wallabies. Whether you're seeking relaxation, water sports, wildlife encounters, or simply a place to soak up the sun, the beaches of Magnetic Island provide an idyllic escape into nature's paradise.
The island hosts 23 remarkable beaches and bays, several which are only accessible by boat. Below we detail the gorgeous beaches that can be easily visited during your stay on the island.
Picnic Bay
Picnic Bay hosts the impressive Heritage listed jetty which can be enjoyed by all for a spot of fishing, walking along it or just simply admiring its beauty. While still a relatively popular bay, you can still soak up the relaxed vibe.
Things to do
-
Fishing off the jetty.
-
Snorkelling over the reef.
-
Enjoy the restaurants and pub.
-
Free BBQs and picnic benches.
-
Swimming at surf lifesaving patrolled beach (stinger enclosure in summer months).
-
Walk your dog (on a leash).
Picnic Bay from Hawking Point Lookout
Rocky Bay
Rocky Bay is one of two nudist beaches on the island that reveals a welcoming sandy beach at low tide. You need to clamber down the hillside but you will be rewarded with a secluded bay that is great for swimming.
Leave your worries behind as you strip down and enjoy the crystal clear water.
Things to do
-
Swimming
-
Sunbaking
Rocky Bay from Rocky Bay Lookout
Nelly Bay
Nelly Bay is one of the quieter beaches so is perfect for a peaceful walk on the sand or to enjoy a book under the palm trees.
Things to do
-
Snorkelling including the purpose built Snorkel Trail.
-
Enjoy food and drinks at Base Backpackers.
-
Free BBQs and picnic benches.
-
Fishing, particularly off the breakwater near the harbour.
-
Check out the Rock Wallabies at the breakwater near the harbour.
-
Walk your dog (on a leash).
Nelly Bay aerial view
Geoffrey Bay
The long stretch of beach is perfect for a relaxed stroll or swim at high tide. The old barge ramp provides a good viewing platform to check out schools of fish cruising by.
Things to do
-
Snorkelling including the purpose built Snorkel Trail.
-
Enjoy the pub at the old barge end.
-
Free BBQs and picnic benches.
-
Free exercise facilities at the Gabul Way end.
-
Investigating the rock pools and exposed reef at low tide.
-
Exploring the Moltke wreck with a scuba tank.
-
Check out the Rock Wallabies at the old barge area.
-
Admire a sensational sunrise.
-
Walk your dog (on a leash).
Geoffrey Bay northern end
Alma Bay
Alma Bay was named one of the top 10 beaches in the state by Surf Life Saving Queensland. Anyone who has been to Alma will not be surprised that it claimed this impressive accolade. Need we say anymore?
Things to do
-
Snorkelling along either rocky side of the bay.
-
Swimming at surf lifesaving patrolled beach (there is no stinger enclosure in summer however, due to the orientation of the bay, stingers are not common. Surf lifesavers still drag net the bay every day to ensure it is safe for swimming.)
-
Enjoy the pub.
-
Free BBQs and picnic benches.
-
Rock hopping.
-
Admire a sensational sunrise.
Alma Bay foreshore
Arthur Bay
Definitely a favourite amongst locals, Arthur Bay is still readily accessible but it feels like you are in a secret paradise. Bask on the sand and admire the aquamarine hue of the water.
Take advantage of the near shore fringing reef that delivers world class snorkelling.
Note that there are no facilities/amenities.
Things to do
-
Snorkelling over the reef.
-
Rock hopping.
-
Swimming.
-
Sunbaking.
Alma Bay foreshore
Arthur Bay northern end
Geoffrey Bay northern end
Florence Bay
Similar to Arthur Bay and possibly even more magical is Florence Bay. Unfortunately the access road is in disrepair and requires a decent 4x4 to access it. You can still walk down to it from the Forts junction.
Things to do
-
Swimming.
-
Sunbaking.
-
Snorkelling over the reef.
-
Rock hopping.
Florence Bay from the ocean
Radical Bay
Radical Bay is a large sandy beach that is popular with day trippers who arrive by boat from Townsville. It is the perfect location to set up for the day with a bunch of mates.
As it is located past Florence Bay, it also requires a decent 4x4 with an experienced driver. It can also be accessed on foot from the Forts Junction or from Horseshoe Bay.
Note that there are no facilities/amenities.
Things to do
-
Swimming
-
Sunbaking
Rocky Bay from Rocky Bay Lookout
Radical Bay aerial view
Balding Bay
The other nudist beach that Maggie has to offer. If you’d prefer not to reveal too much skin, please don’t be put off as we would hate for you to miss out on this simply stunning bay. It requires a bit of effort to get to but it is well worth the sweat as you are rewarded with truly breath taking views.
Things to do
-
Swimming
-
Sunbaking
-
Rock hopping
Rocky Bay from Rocky Bay Lookout
Balding Bay aerial view
Horseshoe Bay
The most popular bay on the island that provides entertainment and stellar seaside views.
Things to do
-
Water sports.
-
Enjoy the restaurants and pub.
-
Swimming at surf lifesaving patrolled beach (stinger enclosure in summer months).
-
Free BBQs and picnic benches.
-
Fishing near the boat ramp and foreshore.
-
Markets (Second and the last Sunday of each month 9am to 2pm).
-
Walk your dog (on a leash).
Horseshoe Bay foreshore
Cockle Bay
This small cove bordered on one side by mangroves is certainly interesting to view. However, due to the flat sloping sandy bottom, it is incredibly shallow at low tide so doesn’t lend itself to fishing or swimming.
Things to do
-
Appreciate the view of the bay and the quaint beach house perched on the rocks.
-
Walk your dog (on a leash), however, it's not a large bay.
Cockle Bay from the ocean
West Point
The more rustic side of the island which has its own rugged beauty. It can be accessed by a long dirt road and a 4x4 or vehicle with decent clearance is advised.
Note that swimming is not recommended due to reports of crocodiles and sharks
Things to do
-
Fishing.
-
Experience a sensational sunset.
-
Walk your dog (on a leash).
West Point foreshore