About Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island is a large coastal island 8 km offshore from Townsville in North Queensland, Australia, within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. About 75% of the 52 sq km island is Magnetic Island National Park. It is known for granite boulders, eucalypt woodland, 23 bays and beaches, abundant koalas and rock-wallabies, and World War II fortifications. Accessible by ferry, it offers beach, bushwalking and snorkelling experiences.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a laid-back tropical island with small townships at Nelly Bay, Picnic Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Arcadia linked by road and bus. The landscape combines sandy beaches, granite headlands, hoop pines and eucalypt forest within national park. Visitors can explore walking tracks including the Forts Walk to WWII gun emplacements, swim and snorkel at sheltered bays with fringing reef, see koalas and allied rock-wallabies, and use accommodation, cafes, shops and snorkel trails.
Key highlights
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The Forts Walk to historic World War II fortifications and coastal views
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Wildlife spotting including koalas and allied rock-wallabies in natural habitat
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Horseshoe Bay - largest bay with swimming, kayaking and sailing
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Nelly Bay and Geoffrey Bay snorkel trails on fringing reef
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Magnetic Island National Park covering about 75% of the island with granite boulders and bushwalking tracks
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Alma Bay and Picnic Bay family-friendly swimming beaches
History of Magnetic Island
Traditionally known as Yunbenun to the Wulgurukaba people. Named Magnetic Island by Captain James Cook in 1770 when he believed the island affected his compass. Developed as a resort and residential area from the late 19th century. Significant World War II coastal defence complex built 1942-1943 including the Forts on the island to protect Townsville harbour, now heritage-listed.
Culture & Context
Traditional land of the Wulgurukaba people, part of the Wulgurukaba and Yunbenun Aboriginal cultural landscape. The island retains cultural heritage values associated with Aboriginal use, early European settlement, and wartime heritage. It is valued for its natural heritage within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.