Things to do on Magnetic Island

Want the local lowdown on Maggie? Swing by a Visitor Information Centre and have a yarn with someone who knows this place like the back of their hand.

Magnetic Island isn’t just pretty beaches and palm trees, though it has 23 of those too. It’s an island gem with a true wild streak and sand-bucket loads of charm.

Adventure comes naturally here, given over two-thirds of the island is protected national park. Lace up for the Forts Walk and you might spot members of Northern Australia’s largest colony of wild koalas chilling in the treetops, plus rusted WWII bunkers and knockout ocean views. Short on time? The Butterfly Walk is an easy, flutter-filled ramble in winter, or head to Geoffrey Bay to meet bold, curious rock wallabies darting across the boulders.

More of a mermaid? Horseshoe Bay is the island’s go-to for thrills and spills. Kayak, jet ski, snorkel, or simply drift in the bath-water temperature shallows like you’ve got nowhere else to be. Chase coral gardens and curious fish along snorkel trails at Nelly and Geoffrey Bays, where you can even take a peek at history at the old Moltke shipwreck. Or jump on a Master Reef Guided eco-tour to the island’s secret bays and best reef sites. Come sunset, set sail and toast to technicolour skies that put on a real show.

Tough, tropical and unforgettable, Maggie’s the kind of island that gets under your skin. Our recommendation? Give into the pull and plan a quick return.