Magnetic Island - Koalas, Shipwrecks & a Perfect Island Day Trip from Townsville

Wander * Explore * Discover
Sep 13, 2023
4 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Magnetic Island - Koalas, Shipwrecks & a Perfect Island Day Trip from Townsville

Just eight kilometres off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island feels like a tropical escape worlds away from the mainland. With 78% of the island protected as National Park, more than 20 stunning beaches, and over 24 kilometres of walking trails, “Maggie” is a place where nature, history and laid-back island life come together effortlessly.

The island is renowned for its incredible wildlife, including North Queensland’s largest population of koalas and a thriving colony of Allied Rock Wallabies. Add crystal-clear waters, scenic lookouts and a rich military and maritime history, and it’s easy to see why Magnetic Island is one of the most popular day trips from Townsville.

A Day Exploring Magnetic Island

On our recent day trip, we packed in some of the island’s highlights — spotting koalas on the Forts Walk, discovering a historic shipwreck, enjoying a seafood lunch by the sea and finishing the day with beach-hopping and rock wallaby encounters before a sunset ferry ride back to Townsville.

The Forts Walk: History, Views & Koalas

The Forts Walk is Magnetic Island’s most popular hike, and it’s easy to see why. This grade 3, 4-kilometre return walk takes around two hours and offers a perfect mix of history, wildlife and sweeping coastal views.

Along the track, keep your eyes on the eucalypt trees — this is one of the best places on the island to spot wild koalas. The walk also leads to Queensland’s best-preserved World War II coastal defence fortifications, now a heritage-listed site.

Interpretive signage and audio recordings bring the ruins to life, sharing stories of the men and women who served here during the war, all set against breathtaking views across the Coral Sea.

A Shipwreck at Cockle Bay

One of Magnetic Island’s most fascinating sights lies just offshore at Cockle Bay — the shipwreck of the S.S. City of Adelaide, located around 300 metres from the beach.

Built in Glasgow in 1864, the 77-metre vessel spent decades as a passenger ship before being converted to a coal storage ship in 1902. In 1912, a fire broke out onboard, burning for two days. A local businessman later purchased the ship, hoping to transform it into tourist accommodation or use it as a breakwater.

Unfortunately, the ship ran aground at Cockle Bay in 1916 while being towed. Today, the rusting remains sit quietly in the shallows, with mangroves growing onboard. At low tide, it’s possible to walk out to the wreck for a closer look.

Lunch by the Sea at Picnic Bay

After exploring the shipwreck, we stopped for lunch at the Picnic Bay Hotel, where we enjoyed a delicious seafood platter. With ocean views and a relaxed island atmosphere, it was the perfect place to refuel.

We then wandered along the historic Picnic Bay Jetty, taking in beautiful views across Cleveland Bay and soaking up the laid-back island vibe.

Beaches Made for Exploring

With more than 20 beaches to choose from, Magnetic Island is made for beach-hopping. After lunch, we spent the afternoon driving around the island, stopping at several stunning beaches where you can swim, snorkel or simply relax on the sand.

Each bay feels different, offering sheltered coves, coral reefs and crystal-clear water — it’s easy to find your own slice of paradise.

Rock Wallabies at Geoffrey Bay

Later in the afternoon, we headed to the old Arcadia Jetty at Geoffrey Bay, one of the best places to see Allied Rock Wallabies. These agile little animals are most active early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and we were lucky enough to spot several hopping among the rocks as the day cooled.

Sunset Back to Townsville

As the sun dipped low, we boarded the ferry back to Townsville, watching the sky glow with soft oranges and pinks over the water. It was the perfect end to a day filled with wildlife, history, beaches and unforgettable island scenery.

Why Magnetic Island Is the Perfect Day Trip

From koala-filled forests and WWII history to shipwrecks, tropical beaches and wildlife encounters, Magnetic Island packs an incredible variety of experiences into one easy day trip from Townsville.

Whether you’re short on time or staying longer to explore every bay and trail, Magnetic Island delivers the essence of tropical North Queensland — relaxed, beautiful and endlessly rewarding.

How to Get to Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is easy to reach from Townsville, with both passenger and vehicle ferry options departing from the Townsville Breakwater Terminal and arriving at Nelly Bay Harbour.

Passenger Ferry

If you’re visiting for the day or don’t need a car, the passenger ferry is the simplest option.

Operator: SeaLink
Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
Frequency: Up to 18 services daily
Vessels: High-speed catamarans with indoor and outdoor seating

Passenger ferries are ideal for day trippers, walkers and anyone planning to use public transport or hire a vehicle on the island.

👉 Click here to get your Passenger Ferry Tickets Today!

Vehicle Ferry

If you’d prefer to explore the island at your own pace, you can bring your car across on the vehicle ferry.

Operator: Magnetic Island Ferries
Travel time: Approximately 35 minutes
Frequency: Around 8 services daily

Vehicle ferries are popular during peak periods, so booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends and school holidays.

Getting Around Magnetic Island

Once on the island, there are several easy ways to get around:

Public Bus: Sunbus operates regular services connecting Nelly Bay, Picnic Bay, Arcadia and Horseshoe Bay. It’s affordable, reliable and ideal for day visitors.
Car Hire: Available on the island if you arrive as a foot passenger.
Scooter Hire: A fun and popular way to explore, particularly in fine weather.
Walking: Many beaches and short walks are easily accessible on foot.

Tips for Visiting Magnetic Island

Book ferries early during weekends, school holidays and peak travel periods.
Start your day early to maximise wildlife spotting, especially koalas and rock wallabies.
Wear sturdy shoes if walking the Forts Track or other island hikes.
Bring sun protection — shade is limited on some beaches and walking trails.
Carry water and snacks, particularly if hiking or beach-hopping.
Check tide times if you plan to walk out to the S.S. City of Adelaide shipwreck.
Respect wildlife — observe from a distance and never feed animals.