Magnetic Island 1-day itinerary

Start the day with the Forts Walk — Magnetic Island's most popular trail and one of the best places in Australia to spot koalas in the wild. The 4km return walk follows a ridge through eucalyptus woodland where koalas wedge themselves into the forks of trees just metres above the path. The trail leads to the remains of WWII gun emplacements built to protect Townsville harbour from Japanese attack — the concrete bunkers and command post sit on the headland with sweeping views over the Coral Sea and surrounding islands.

Head to Horseshoe Bay — Magnetic Island's largest and most popular beach. The wide crescent of golden sand is sheltered by granite headlands and fringed by coral reef accessible by snorkelling directly from shore. Hire a stinger suit and snorkel set from the beach hire and explore the reef along the eastern headland where parrotfish, coral trout, and anemonefish dart among the coral formations. Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis are available for hire on the beach.

Drive or ride to the western side of the island for sunset at West Point — a rocky headland with unobstructed views across Cleveland Bay to the mainland and the mountains behind Townsville. The granite boulders glow pink and orange in the setting sun and the water turns molten gold. Afterwards, head to Horseshoe Bay or Nelly Bay for dinner — the island has a handful of casual restaurants and pubs with fresh seafood and cold beers. The pace of life on Magnetic Island is gloriously slow.