Escape to Magnetic Island, a tropical paradise just a quick 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville. With its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush national parks, the island offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure right at your doorstep. Whether you’re here to snorkel the reefs, spot unique wildlife, or simply unwind, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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Our holiday home provides the ideal base for families, couples, groups, and guests with accessibility needs, with facilities designed to ensure comfort and ease for all. From safe family-friendly activities to inclusive island experiences, Magnetic Island makes the perfect getaway destination. Relax, explore, and create lasting memories in this beautiful island setting.
Getting Here
Getting to Magnetic Island is easy and stress-free. The island is just a short 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville, with regular passenger and car ferries operating throughout the day. Once you arrive, you can explore the island by bus, taxi, hire car, or even scooter making it simple to get around at your own pace.​
Horseshoe Bay, where our holiday home is located, is one of the island’s most popular and family-friendly destinations. From the Nelly Bay ferry terminal, it’s just a 15-minute drive or bus ride across scenic landscapes to reach the bay. Here, you’ll find a beautiful beachfront village atmosphere with safe swimming areas, cafes, restaurants, and access to water sports. Horseshoe Bay is the perfect spot to settle into your island getaway!
Aquascene Magnetic Island delivers award winning guided boat tours around the island’s pristine coastline. Offering snorkelling, wildlife, cultural storytelling, and private charters all aboard comfortable, accessible vessels.
Magnetic Island Jet Skis offers thrilling jet ski hire and guided tours from Horseshoe Bay. Whether you want the freedom to ride solo or join an adventure to hidden beaches, it’s a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the island from the water.
The Arcadia Village Hotel, nestled between Alma Bay and Geoffrey Bay on Magnetic Island, is a beloved local pub offering a relaxed atmosphere, cold drinks, and a refreshing pool with ocean views.
A highlight of the week is the World Famous Cane Toad Races, held every Wednesday night at 8:00 PM. This quirky event has been a tradition for over 40 years, raising funds for the Arcadia Surf Life Saving Club. Participants can purchase a toad and cheer it on as it races to victory, all in good fun and for a great cause
Horseshoe Bay Esplanade is Horseshoe Bay’s charming seaside strip, home to around six cafés and restaurants. Each spot brings its own flavour weather you're after fresh seafood, relaxed brunch vibes, or a casual dinner with artful surroundings. A convenience store is also located here and a few of the islands boutiques.
​Be sure to drop in on Sundays, when the Magnetic Island Markets light up the foreshore from 9 am to 2 pm, featuring local arts, crafts, food, live music, and a joyful community atmosphere.