About Alma Bay
Alma Bay is a sheltered sandy beach on the eastern coast of Magnetic Island at Arcadia, within the City of Townsville, Queensland. Fringed by granite boulders, hoop pines and parkland, it faces the Coral Sea and is known for calm, clear water, a seasonal stinger enclosure and family-friendly swimming. Located close to Arcadia village, it is a popular day-use beach within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area setting.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a small, curved sandy bay enclosed by rocky headlands with calm turquoise water and a grassy foreshore park. The beach has a seasonal stinger net for swimming, open parkland with barbecue and picnic facilities, and views across to the mainland. The setting is quiet and residential, suitable for swimming, snorkelling around fringing rocks, sunbathing, photography and short coastal walks to nearby Geoffrey Bay and Arcadia village shops.
Key highlights
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Sheltered sandy beach with calm water ideal for swimming
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Seasonal stinger enclosure for safer swimming in warmer months
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Granite boulders and hoop pines framing the bay
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Foreshore park with barbecues and picnic tables
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Snorkelling around rocky margins at the bay edges
History of Alma Bay
Magnetic Island is traditionally part of Wulgurukaba Sea Country. Alma Bay and Arcadia developed from the late 19th to early 20th century as a seaside recreation area for Townsville residents, with guesthouses and village settlement growing around the bay.
Culture & Context
Sea Country of the Wulgurukaba Traditional Owners and valued community and tourism recreation beach within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area setting
Route
| By air | Fly to Townsville Airport then transfer by taxi or bus to Townsville Breakwater ferry terminal for Magnetic Island ferry |
|---|---|
| By train |