wildlife park tour magnetic island

Selina Magnetic Island Wildlife Park Tour

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Australian wildlife on one of these daily tours led by knowledgeable, Magnetic Island rangers

Selina Magnetic Island Wildlife Park Tour Highlights

• Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us

2 daily tours led by knowledgeable rangers

Enjoy c aptivating local stories + personal experiences with native Australian wildlife

Wrap a python around you, pat Harry the wombat + meet an adorable Koala family

Gain important conservation insights

Suitable for all ages

Small, personalised tour

Why Do We Love This

The Koala Park proudly holds an Advanced Eco Tourism status and is a member of Australia's Zoo and Aquarium Association.

What to Expect

Adventure and wonder collide in this unforgettable experience with Australia's unique wildlife.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Magnetic Island as knowledgeable onsite rangers guide you through a tour filled with captivating stories and personal encounters.

Get ready for an up-close and...

Frequently Asked Questions about Selina Magnetic Island Wildlife Park Tour

Where does the tour depart from, reviews for selina magnetic island wildlife park tour.

Total review count and overall rating based on Backpackerdeals and Travello reviews.

All Reviews

Amazing tour with small group!

Awesome, even better than expected, loved everything about it.

Tour guide was great and can tell the animals are treated really well in there. A lovely activity to do if you’re visiting magnetic!

It was a very nice experience, I liked it to pet the Australian animals. The guides were very friendly too.

Loved it. Relaxed. And informative. Emma and Matt were excellent.

Fun and interactive tour, Ranger Fabian was very knowledgeable and entertaining. Def worth it to see and pet the wombat!

I would never thought I appreciate the chunkiness of Wombat. He was So CUTE! 10/10!!

The passion of our guide combined with the unique and tactile experience made this family experience unforgettable. Highly recommended for all ages.

So awesome! A must for animal lovers or anyone who wants to know what creatures make Magnetic Island special! I went by myself and had a great time meeting the animals and learning about them. Unfortunately, the island buses were running behind and I missed my tour time by 15 minutes. Thankfully, everyone working at Selina is super nice and helpful; they got me into the tour area quickly so that I wouldn't miss any more of it. It was really easy to purchase tickets and I enjoyed myself immensely!

The Magnetic Island Wildlife Park Tour was a tonne of fun! It was a memorable and exciting experience thanks to up-close interactions with cute koalas, cuddly wombats, and other local species. Learning was made enjoyable by the guides, and the park's dedication to conservation was inspiring. A wildlife lovers' must-try!

• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure at 8:15am at the Selina Reception Deck,  the ranger will collect you at 8:30am sharp for the start of your Aussie Breakfast experience.
• No koala photos are on offer through Selina's commitment to education and...

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund  

All customer cancellation & refund requests are also subject to our website’s own  refund conditions .

Breakfast with Koala's

Connect with our passionate group of rangers combining an educational wildlife experience and a delicious full cooked breakfast in a stunning setting.

• Duration: 90 Minutes (approx.)

Wildlife Park Tour

2 Daily tours conducted with onsite rangers offering local stories and personal experiences with our native Australian Wildlife. Wrap a Python around you, pat Harry the wombat and meet our Koala family.

Return Ferry Townsville and Magnetic Island

Return Ferry Townsville and Magnetic Island Highlights

• Duration: 20 Minutes (approx.)

Yongala Day Trip – Certified Diver

• Duration: 9 Hours (approx.)

Great Barrier Reef and Museum of Underwater Art Day Trip

Booking Software by Rezdy.com | Agent login

THE 5 BEST Magnetic Island Nature & Wildlife Tours

Nature & wildlife tours in magnetic island.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• MI Ride Discovery Tours
• Radical Bay
• Florence Bay
• Magnetic Island Tours
• Poseidon Jet Ski Tours
• Pilgrim Magnetic Island
• Aquascene Magnetic Island
• Magnetic Island Forts Walk
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Aquascene Magnetic Island Discovery Tour

2. West Coast Eco Adventure

3. Magnetic Island Tour Behind the Scenes

4. West Point Sunset Safari

5. Magnetic Island 2-Hour Guided Tour by Jet-Ski

6. Magnetic Islands Three Bays in Three Ways (Private Tour)

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Bay Rock Tour in Townsville

What travellers are saying.

• Aquascene Magnetic Island Discovery Tour
• Magnetic Island Tour: Maggie Comprehensive
• West Point Sunset Safari
• Magnetic Islands Three Bays in Three Ways
• West Coast Eco Adventure
• Bungalow Bay Koala Village
• David Peart

Maggie Comprehensive

Explore magnetic island’s wonders on our premier tour.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Magnetic Island, nestled within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Our flagship Magnetic Island day tour, beginning and concluding at the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, promises an extraordinary adventure, unveiling the island’s iconic landmarks and hidden treasures.

As you traverse this paradise, immerse yourself in Magnetic Island’s breathtaking landscapes, a captivating backdrop that will leave you spellbound. Our knowledgeable guide will weave tales of the island’s intriguing history, geography, vibrant flora, and fauna, offering an immersive educational experience.

Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to spot some of the island’s 800 koalas, playful wallabies, 180 bird species, and a remarkable 141 fish species. During the winter months, catching a glimpse of majestic whales in Cleveland Bay can be an awe-inspiring spectacle, although it’s subject to nature’s whims.

Indulge in a well-deserved break at the beloved Horseshoe Bay, savoring the island’s culinary delights and refreshing waters. While animal sightings can’t be guaranteed, we assure you that you’ll depart from this tour enriched with knowledge and a deep appreciation for Magnetic Island’s unparalleled natural beauty.

Book your journey of discovery with us today and unlock the secrets of Magnetic Island waiting for your exploration.

Tour Details

• $85 AUD for Adults
• $75 AUD for Seniors
• $42.50 AUD for Children (5-14)
• Children under 5 free
• 10% Surcharge applies Sundays & Queensland Public holidays
• Australian Companion Card Holder accepted
• Group Discounts Available

Tour Schedule:

• Depart 9:15 AM
• Return by 2:30 PM

Meeting Point:

• Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, Magnetic Island. (Please note: We do not offer pickups from the mainland.)
• Pickups from accommodations on the island available upon request.

Activity level:

Low. Limited walking on and off the bus. Except during butterfly season when the tour takes a 250m bush walk on mostly flat terrain.

Wheelchair Accessibility: We can offer a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Please get in touch with us directly to confirm its availability

What Ferry to catch:

Two ferry companies service the island, departing from different parts of Townsville. Catch the right ferry!

• 8:45am Sealink Ferry: Breakwater Terminal, Sir Leslie Thiess Drive.
• 7:00 am Magnetic Island Ferries service, Ross St., South Townsville.

What’s Included:

• Transport in an air conditioned  minibus
• Light morning tea of fruit and baked goods
• Free bottled water available on the bus
• One awesome Tour Guide!

What’s Not Included:

• Entry to Aquasearch Aquarium – $3 per person (Cash only).

Group Size :

• No Minimum numbers – if you want to go we will run a tour
• Maximum of 16 on our regular tour. Larger groups by request

What to bring:

• A sense of adventure
• $3 cash for entry to Aquasearch Aquarium

Click here for Booking Terms and Conditions

Tour Itinerary

(subject to change depending on weather and season)

Experience Magnetic Island’s natural beauty and heritage in this comprehensive tour. Enjoy scenic stops, wildlife encounters, and leisurely moments throughout the day.

1. Island Arrival and Scenic Start:

• Your adventure begins at Nelly Bay terminal, where your friendly guide awaits.
• First stop: Rocky Bay lookout for stunning island views.

2. Cockle Bay and Island History:

• Explore Cockle Bay and Picnic Bay, rich in island geography and history.
• Stroll along the heritage Picnic Bay Jetty and visit the local museum.

3. Arcadia Hill Views:

• Return to Nelly Bay for a short break.
• As the bus ascends Arcadia hill prepare for breathtaking views of Cleveland Bay and the Coral Sea. (and the occassional whale)

4. Geoffrey Bay Exploration:

• Discover Geoffrey Bay’s unique rock formations.
• Learn about reef research and spot Allied Rock Wallabies.

5. Horseshoe Bay and Leisure Time:

• Head to Horseshoe Bay, taking in more scenic vistas.
• Enjoy free time for delicious food and swimming at the bay. (Swimming is at own risk)

6. Optional Butterfly Forest Walk

• (Available June-Sept) Explore the Butterfly Forest with a short bushwalk.

7. Aquasearch Aquarium Visit:

• $3 Cash entry fee
• After lunch, continue through Arcadia to the Aquasearch Aquarium.
• Learn some more about our local marine life, including Dr. Rick Braley’s work with Giant Clams.

8. Return or Stay:

• Conclude your tour with a return to the Ferry.
• Alternatively, choose to stay and explore more of Magnetic Island.

Things to do

Discover Magnetic Island

Magnetic jetski tours.

Big Mama Sailing

Aquascene Charters

Get Around Island Boat Tours & Hire

Pilgrim Sailing

Sealink Whale Watching

Magnetic Jeep Tours

Magnetic Island Time Cruises

Best Bus Tours

Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks

Townsville helicopters.

The Beach Club Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island Pleasure Tours

Utopia charters, reef eco tours.

• Skip to content
• Find a park

Magnetic Island National Park Townsville

Photo credit: © Queensland Government

Boulderous granite headlands and towering hoop pines stand sentinel over tranquil sandy bays on this rugged, mountainous island covered with open eucalypt woodlands and surrounded by coral reefs.

About 8km north-east of Townsville, within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area

The  Traditional Custodians, the Wulgurukaba, or the ‘canoe people’, welcome you to Yunbenun (Magnetic Island).

Learn more Getting there

Park facilities

• Mooring points
• Snorkelling
• World Heritage

More facilities

Park alerts

• Horseshoe-Balding-Radical Bays walking track closed for upgrades 13 May to 31 August 2024

View all park alerts

Warnings Expand warnings

• Beware marine stingers (jellyfish)
• Interactive map
• Need further information? Send an enquiry

Page feedback

Website feedback

Please share your experience with this website’s content and functionality . For all other enquiries, comments and complaints , please contact us .

• Strongly agree
• Strongly disagree
• Your comments about this page’s content or functionality (required)
• Contact Please provide your email address or phone number if you are happy for us to contact you with any follow-up questions.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation collects personal information from you, including information about your email address and telephone number.

We collect this information to contact you with any follow-up questions. We will only use your information for this purpose. It will otherwise not be used or disclosed unless authorised or required by law. Your personal information will be handled in accordance with the Information Privacy Act 2009 .

Contribute to the important work being done to protect and grow Queensland’s protected area system.

Selina Magnetic Island & The Koala Park

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

SELINA MAGNETIC ISLAND & THE KOALA PARK (Horseshoe Bay) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

• Accommodation
• Real Estate
• Attractions
• Island Walks
• Community Directory

BUNGALOW BAY KOALA VILLAGE

Only resort in australia with it's own wildlife park onsite, description.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village is the only resort in Australia that can boast its own on site wildlife park. In-house guests, day visitors and island residents have the opportunity to learn and importantly interact with our unique wildlife, a key principle in taking away important conservation messages.

There are 3 daily tours conducted with onsite rangers offering up close and personal experiences with our native Australian Wildlife. The tour lasts approximately two hours and is within the wildlife park where you can wrap yourself in a python, hold a lizard, small saltwater crocodile and get to know the icon of Magnetic Island – the koala. Freshwater crocodiles can also be seen on display.

Tours depart daily at 10am / 12 noon / 2.30pm 

● Educational wildlife experience ● Suitable for all ages ● Small personalised tours ● Local rangers with local stories ● Breakfast with the koalas ● Family owned and operated

40 Horseshoe Bay Rd Horseshoe Bay

07 4778 5577

Adult $29pp

Love this post? Give it a share!

4 DAYS ON MAGNETIC ISLAND ITINERARY (2024): THE ULTIMATE GUIDE & BEST THINGS TO DO!

LOOKING TO PLAN THE ULTIMATE MAGNETIC ISLAND ITINERARY?

Check out our blog post below to plan an unforgettable Magnetic Island itinerary for 2024! It includes the full 4 days on Magnetic Island, the best things to do, the best tours on Magnetic Island , where to stay on Magnetic Island, getting around and more!

MAGNETIC ISLAND ITINERARY: THE ULTIMATE 4 DAY GUIDE!

For our Magnetic Island itinerary below, we arrive to the island by ferry before exploring all of the best things to do in Picnic Bay, Arcadia, Nelly Bay and Horseshoe Bay! This includes unique wildlife encounters, stunning beaches and some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll see:

DAY 1: SEALINK FERRY, CAR HIRE & PICNIC BAY

EARLY MORNING: CATCH THE SEALINK QLD FERRY Catch an early morning ferry service with Sealink Queensland from Townsville (mainland Australia) to Magnetic Island.

It takes just 20 minutes to leisurely cruise the short 8km stretch between Townsville and Magnetic Island, where you will arrive and dock at Nelly Bay, South of Magnetic Island.

Top Tip : The most convenient ferry ticket to buy for getting to Magnetic Island is the round-trip ferry ticket . This includes your outward ferry journey from Townsville to Magnetic Island with a flexible return journey that is valid for one month!

MORNING: PICK UP TOPLESS CAR / CATCH THE BUS On arrival into Nelly Bay, either make your way immediately to your accommodation via the super easy SunBus (Magnetic Island’s only bus service), Uber or pick up your pre-booked topless car hire.

Hiring an iconic topless car (that look a little like “Barbie cars”) is one of the most popular things to do on Magnetic Island. Because of this, pre-booking is essential once you know your Magnetic Island itinerary dates to avoid disappointment!

Book your topless car with Isle Hire , the company we used and would highly recommend! Isle Hire are located in Nelly Bay, and are conveniently just a 2 minute walk from the ferry terminal.

Top tip : While you’re already in Nelly Bay, head to the only large supermarket on Magnetic Island, IGA , to pick up any groceries or supplies you may need for your stay.

AFTERNOON: HAVE LUNCH AND CHILL AT PICNIC BAY Head to the quiet beach of Picnic Bay, located on the South West side of Magnetic Island, just a 5 minute drive from Nelly Bay.

Perch and paddle your toes on the pier at Picnic Bay beach, awe at the beach rock formations or stroll along the esplanade. The beach is picturesque, quiet and full of gorgeous shells!

There are a few cafes and shops along the small high street lining the beach at Picnic Bay where you can grab a light lunch!

Top Tip : There is good, free ‘Telstra’ WiFi  to connect to around Picnic Bay.

Fun Fact : On a clear day, you can see Townsville on the Mainland in the far distance from Picnic Bay Beach!

DAY 2: THE FORTS WALK, SELINA WILDLIFE PARK TOUR & HORSESHOE BAY

MORNING: THE FORTS WW2 & KOALA WALKING TRAIL Take a few hours this morning to escape into the wilderness of ‘The Forts’ woodland walk. A gentle incline leads you up to a series of old WW2 forts on the Fort Circuit Loop.

Feel on top of the world as you survey the incredible 360 views of Magnetic Island’s National Park and distant coves.

Fun Fact : Magnetic Island is home to the largest population of wild Koalas in northern Australia, and the majority can be spotted on The Forts walk!

Fun Fact : Almost 70% of Magnetic Island is made up of National Park!

AFTERNOON: WILDLIFE PARK TOUR AT SELINA For the ultimate deep dive into Australian creatures, look no further than Selina Magnetic Island for their Wildlife Park Tour. Choose from the two tours a day (either 10.30am or 12.30pm) for access to the park – a great opportunity to interact with and learn so much about Australia’s local wildlife, including lizards, turtles, koalas, crocodiles, wombats and native birds!

Top Tip : You have to book tours online, booking cannot be done at the reception desk. We didn’t get the memo, but thankfully you can use their free WiFi to book on your phone the next tour while you’re there.

Fun Fact : As well as a small wildlife park, you can also stay at Selina Magnetic Island at a range of affordable accommodation! If you do, there’s the opportunity to purchase a “Breakfast with a Koala” experience too!

AFTERNOON: DRIVE TO HORSESHOE BAY Make your way North to the beautifully secluded township of Horseshoe Bay. Graced with a long stretch of golden sand, find cafes and fish & chip parlours dotted along the beachfront.

Horseshoe Bay is the best place on Magnetic Island for water sports, including sea kayaking, tube rides or jet skis!

Top Tip : Horseshoe Bay markets are held every Sunday from 9am – 2pm along the Horseshoe Bay beachfront.

Top Tip : When parking up at Horseshoe Bay (or anywhere on Magnetic Island), always park your car facing the direction of traffic! Otherwise, you could be issued with a $200 fine if caught by the local police.

DAY 3: AQUASCENE DISCOVERY BOAT TOUR & SUNSET CRUISE OPTION

DAY TOUR: AQUASCENE DISCOVERY BOAT TOUR Voted as one of the best things to do on Magnetic Island, a must do on your Magnetic Island itinerary is the 5* half-day Aquascene Discovery boat tour !

Spend a jam-packed 5 hours cruising around the whole of Magnetic Island (including hidden, otherwise inaccessible coves), learning all about the island’s incredible biodiversity and spotting incredible marine life as you snorkel and paddle board at each of the different stops.

All equipment (including snorkelling gear and use of paddle boards) are included, plus snacks and refreshments.

Click to book the Aquascene Discovery boat tour of Magnetic Island! 🛥️🤿🐠🏄🏽‍♀️

Top Tip : Aquascene also offer an EPIC 2 to 3 hour sunset boat cruise to see an incredible shipwreck, complete with growing trees, stranded in the middle of the ocean! Why not add this to your Magnetic Island itinerary for this evening?

DAY 4: ALMA BEACH, GEOFFREY BAY & FEED WILD ROCK WALLABIES!

MORNING: RELAX ON ALMA BAY BEACH, ARCADIA Spend your morning first at the quaint cove of Alma Bay, located in the township of Arcadia. It is voted as one of the best and safest beaches on Magnetic Island because it is patrolled by lifeguards and has clear shallow waters.

Relax on the soft sands, climb the rock formations or even do a bit of snorkelling. When we snorkelled here, we spotted a rainbow fish and hermit crab!

Top Tip : There is white vinegar stationed at Alma Bay (and most Magnetic Island beaches) in case of a jelly fish sting!

SPOTTED WILDLIFE!

The Kookaburra Many spotted (and heard!) on Magnetic Island. The laughing Kookaburra is an Australian icon with its loud territorial calls, which sounds like hysteric laughter! They are the largest member of the Kingfisher family, and can grow up to 45cm in height! They are carnivorous – eating small reptiles, crabs, amphibians and some insects!

AFTERNOON: BEACHCOMBING AT GEOFFREY BAY If Alma Bay starts getting too busy, seek peace and quiet just a 5 minute walk away at Geoffrey Bay. Unpatrolled by lifeguards, you’ll most likely find this extremely long stretch of beach totally deserted – A perfect spot for quiet reflection!

As this beach is directly opposite a reef, you will find the most incredible shells washed up on the sand here, particularly on a low tide. Walk to the very end of the beach (towards the direction of Nelly Bay) to keep your eyes peeled for the best shells!

Top Tip : The tide comes in very fast here, sneakily comes up from behind! We left our bags right up the beach whilst paddling, turned around and they were basically floating!

LATE AFTERNOON: FEED THE WILD ROCK WALLABIES! As you leave Geoffrey Bay beach, head right to the rocks at the end of  Armand Way to see a wild colony of rock wallabies, and have the chance to feed them out of your hand!

They come out every evening at dusk (around 4 to 5pm) to say hello – and sniff out a treat or two! With years of interaction with humans, this long standing tradition means they are friendly, trusting and inquisitive.

A wonderful experience for wildlife lovers, and one of the best free things to do on Magnetic Island!

Top Tip : If you do intend to feed the wallabies, you must only feed them acceptable foods, including: carrots, sweet potatoes, apples or wallaby pellets (from a local store).

Allied Rock Wallabies (‘Rock-Weasel’) Many adults and babies spotted at Geoffrey Bay rocks. The Allied Rock Wallaby species are only found in Northern Queensland, visually distinguished by their grey-brown body, darker stripes from eyes to nose and darker paws.

The Echnida Spotted rummaging directly outside our accommodation at Dandaloo Gardens ! They are only one of two living egg-laying mammal species in the world! Their long snouts have a tiny toothless mouth, and they use their long  6-inch tongue to feed on termites, ants and worms. A baby Echidna is called a ‘Puggle’!

WHERE TO STAY ON MAGNETIC ISLAND

There are four distinct townships on Magnetic Island, all with their own quirks and benefits:

• Picnic Bay: Secluded, quiet, peaceful.
• Nelly Bay: Main hub, majority of restaurants, supermarket
• Arcadia: Great beaches, good middle location.
• Horseshoe Bay: Most secluded (not walkable between other three townships), beach and water sports.

The area you choose depends solely on what you believe is most important to be immediately close to and the atmosphere you want. As Magnetic Island is so small and has an abundance of transport options, it is easy to navigate between all townships.

See our top accommodation picks for each below:

PICNIC BAY ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS:

⭐ Nomads Magnetic Island (budget) ⭐ Beached on Magnetic (holiday home)

NELLY BAY ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS:

⭐ Affordable Island Escape, Queen Studio (budget) ⭐ Peppers Blue On Blue (luxury) ⭐ Whispering Palms (holiday home)

ARCADIA ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS:

⭐ Dandaloo Gardens (budget, where we stayed & recommend!) ⭐ Castaway Cottage (holiday home)

HORSESHOE BAY ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS:

⭐ Selina Magnetic Island (budget) ⭐ Beachfront Getaway (luxury) ⭐ Villa Kembali (holiday home)

MAGNETIC ISLAND PACKING LIST

• Loose comfortable clothing, such as tank tops and cotton shorts.
• Your swimsuit.
• Protective beach shoes ! This is crucial for walking along the shells and within the rock formations of Magnetic Island’s beaches.
• A microfibre beach towel (fast drying & lightweight).
• A spare waterproof bag to store your wet towel / swimsuit after your tour.
• A GoPro / waterproof camera to capture amazing underwater footage!
• Or! A waterproof dry bag (with a lanyard!) to take photos and videos on your smartphone instead.
• High factor sun cream
• After sun moisturising cream.
• Sun protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
• Comfortable lightweight walking shoes with good grip (ideal for the Forts walking trail, or any inland walking trails on Magnetic Island).
• A medical pouch / first aid kit.
• Refillable water bottle to bring on your tours, walking trails or o keep hydrated at the beach .
• Powered battery pack for your smart phone.

GETTING TO MAGNETIC ISLAND BY FERRY

How to get to magnetic island by ferry with a car:.

If you have your own car that you would like to take across and drive on Magnetic Island, it is possible and easy to do so! You just have to book your ferry slot from Townsville to Magnetic Island (and back) with Magnetic Island Ferries .

Magnetic Island ferries provide the option to carry a selection of vehicle types (from standard cars, longer vehicles with trailers and motorcycles) from Townsville over to Magnetic Island. They offer multiple daily services, check out their timetables .

Important note : If you are hiring a car from mainland Australia and want to take the car over to Magnetic Island, we strongly advise to double check before booking whether this is permitted / covered in your insurance policy.

HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND BY FERRY WITHOUT A CAR:

If you do not have a car to take over to Magnetic Island, you will simply just need to purchase a return passenger-only ferry ticket from Townsville to Magnetic Island.

From our positive first-hand experience, we recommend you book your flexible return ferry ticket with Sealink Queensland !

GETTING AROUND MAGNETIC ISLAND

Getting around magnetic island: by car.

The most convenient and easy ways to get around Magnetic Island is by car, whether it be your own car (transported over by Magnetic Island ferries ), or by renting a car when you are on the island.

As mentioned previously, a very popular option is to rent a topless “Barbie” car while on Magnetic Island. However, if that’s not your scene there are plenty of standard cars and 4WD’s available to rent on Magnetic Island too.

Highly rated car rental companies on Magnetic Island include Isle Hire and Sealink .

GETTING AROUND MAGNETIC ISLAND: BY BUS

You can easily get around Magnetic Island by using their reliable and budget friendly SunBus , the only bus service on Magnetic Island.

With just one route to follow (Route 250) and 29 stops dotted across the island to choose from, the SunBus makes getting across Magnetic Island without a car easier.

Of course, this means you are dictated to slightly by their timetable, but as long as you plan in advance and be aware of the times, this shouldn’t necessarily be a problem!

GETTING AROUND MAGNETIC ISLAND: BY UBER

In 2019, Uber was introduced to Magnetic Island! Though slightly more expensive than the SunBus, Uber allows for quick and speedy pick up and drop offs across the island. Download and set yourself up on the UBER app prior to arrival.

GETTING AROUND MAGNETIC ISLAND: ON FOOT

When you are in either of the four townships on Magnetic Island (Picnic Bay / Nelly Bay / Arcadia / Horseshoe Bay), it is possible to walk around the immediate area on foot. Nelly Bay is the largest township out of the four.

If you are avid walkers, there are designated pathways along the road linking all of the three townships on the South coast of Magnetic Island: Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay and Arcadia.

Horseshoe Bay however is much more isolated on the North coast, and we wouldn’t advise walking on the road from Arcadia to Horseshoe Bay as there are no designated pathways.

DRIVING TIPS FOR MAGNETIC ISLAND

Are the roads on magnetic island sealed.

Yes, the majority of roads are sealed roads that are in good condition. However, there are some on the way to Horseshoe Bay that do contain some bumpy areas with pot holes.

These roads allow for easy and convenient between all of the four townships on Magnetic Island, and suitable for 2WD and the topless “Barbie” cars. All of the sealed roads on Magnetic Island are clearly shown as solid white lines on this Magnetic Island road map .

IS THERE 4WD TRACKS ON MAGNETIC ISLAND? DO YOU NEED A 4WD ON MAGNETIC ISLAND?

While the majority of Magnetic Island is accessible on sealed roads, there are two particular unsealed road routes where only 4WD’s are permitted due to rougher road terrain.

The first unsealed road is from Picnic Bay to West Point, running up the whole of the West coast of Magnetic Island.

The other is a shorter road North East of Magnetic Island, from Arthur Point to Radical Bay. These two unsealed roads are clearly shown as dashed white lines on this Magnetic Island road map .

You only need a 4WD if you plan on venturing to West Point, as there is no other way to get here. However, it is possible to access Radical Bay from Arthur Point on foot.

VISITING MAGNETIC ISLAND: “KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” FAQ’S

Where in australia is magnetic island.

Magnetic Island is a relatively small subtropical island located just 8km off Australia’s mainland. It is easily accessible from the closest city to Magnetic Island, Townsville (the capital of North Queensland), by countless ferry services.

IS MAGNETIC ISLAND WORTH A VISIT?

Magnetic Island (affectionately known as ‘Maggie Island’ by locals) is absolutely worth the visit for anyone travelling up the East Coast of Australia !

Magnetic Island is truly a slice of paradise, fringed with idyllic boulder-lined beach coves whilst inland consists of untouched wilderness, a thriving destination for plentiful wildlife and wonderful hiking trails.

Magnetic Island is home to 2,500 permanent residents, alongside B&Bs, luxury hotels and backpacker hostels. 

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT MAGNETIC ISLAND?

Magnetic Island year round is renowned for its warm weather, welcoming over 320+ days of sunshine a year! That being said, its location in North Queensland means it is also affected by Queensland’s tropical dry and wet seasons.

The wet season (between December to April) brings notably higher chance of rainfall to Magnetic Island, whereas the dry season (from May to November) has hardly any rain.

We would suggest visiting Magnetic Island in the dry season, between the months of May to November. This is increase your chances greatly of having pleasant, warm weather to enjoy during your visit! We personally visited in July, and enjoyed balmy sunshine everyday.

CONCLUSION: MAGNETIC ISLAND ITINERARY

This 4 day Magnetic Island itinerary is jam-packed with all of the key highlights that this island paradise has to offer.

From spotting koalas and other wildlife in the dense National Park woodland, relaxing on stunning golden beaches, water sports, snorkelling the reefs with Aquascene and just meandering the quaint townships, Magnetic Island has something for everyone to enjoy.

It really is a must see on any Australian trip, and should absolutely not be missed. We hope you have the best time, and be sure to let us know what your favourite part was!

This blog post was written by… Jordie Flain! Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com, Travel Itinerary Creator & Wildlife Enthusiast

LOOKING TO BOOK YOUR NEXT TRIP? CHECK OUT OUR FAVOURITE SUPPLIERS BELOW:

Share this:

• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

Jordie Flain is the owner and author of The Flains Travel, a travel blog with emphasis on ethical wildlife experiences, "seen to be believed" natural beauty and "real magic" phenomena, such as the northern lights. Jordie crafts every itinerary and post to perfection for travellers to follow and get the very most out of their time in a destination.

20 Things to do on Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island, or “Maggie”, is a tranquil island escape just 20 minutes away from Townsville, Queensland, Australia by ferry. It is known for having one of the largest wild koala populations in Australia, unique jungled landscapes and serene beaches, and being home to old World War II buildings. Countless things to do on Magnetic Island  include exploring all of its natural beauty and enjoying its small town vibes.

Here are the top 20 things to do on Magnetic Island !

Want a taste of Magnetic Island before your visit? Check out the feel-good children’s show  Izzy’s Koala World  on Netflix, where a local girl and her veterinarian mother care for and rehabilitate sick and injured koalas on the island.

Tip: Save some time at the ferry terminals by booking your Townsville to Magnetic Island round-trip ferry tickets ahead of time  here . 

Where to stay on Magnetic Island

In order to experience the most of this list of things to do on Magnetic Island, I recommend staying on a well-connected area of the island such as Nelly Bay or Horseshoe Bay. If you take my advice and rent a scooter or buggy to get around though (things to do on Magnetic Island #1) you’ll have a few more options for where to stay. 

Here are some recommendations for awesome accommodation options on Magnetic Island to put you at the heart of the action.

• Budget:  Arcadia Beach Guest House and Car Hire , located in Nelly Bay, offers cheap dorm room accommodation, various private room options, and even safari 
• Mid-Range:  Selina Magnetic Island  (formerly Bungalow Bay Koala Village), located in Horseshoe Bay. Home to a wildlife park and many types of quirky, Instagram-worthy accommodation. 
• Luxury:  Peppers Blue on Blue Resort , located in Nelly Bay offers 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments with marina and mountain views.
• Budget:  Nomads Magnetic Island Base . Nomads ticks the “secluded” box, but not the “quiet” box. Stay here if you’re after beach parties and social hostel vibes. The hostel is like its own village with a restaurant on-site and private pool and beach.
• Mid-Range:  Paco’s Beach Hut , a holiday home and the only Magnetic Island rental home located in West Point, Magnetic Island.
• Luxury:  Beach House at Arthur Bay , a luxurious beachfront property with access to a private beach and swimming pool. The sole property located at Arthur Bay – no neighbors in sight! 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nomads (@nomadshostels)

Things to do on Magnetic Island

1. rent a buggy or scooter.

The best way to enjoy the many things to do on Magnetic Island is to rent a buggy or a scooter to get around. Going for (safe) joyrides on these open-top vehicles is the best way to get a feel for Maggie and enjoy the island breeze.

Not only do the topless buggies or scooters let you feel the wind in your hair, they allow you to reach parts of the island (on your own time) that busses won’t drive to.

Although Maggie has a public bus system, don’t be bound by the bus schedule by renting your own vehicle during your stay. Trust me, it’s worth it!

2. Hike to the Forts

One of the top things to do on Magnetic Island is to hike to the historic World War II forts that are located on the northeast side of the island. The forts complex was built here in 1943 to protect Townsville harbor from potential Japanese attack. What remains of these World War II buildings can be explored along the trail, with plenty of signage to inform visitors of the forts’ significance and historical uses.

Since the main purpose of the forts was to spot oncoming attackers, they were built into two lookout spots at high elevation. Today, the forts provide incredible views over the Magnetic Island coastline.

Not only is this a beautiful walk steeped in history, it’s the best place to see wild koalas on Magnetic Island!

3. Go stand-up paddle boarding or sea kayaking at Horseshoe Bay

Stand-up paddle boarding (or SUP) and sea kayaking are popular activities on the north side of Magnetic Island, where the beaches are the calmest. Walking along the wide stretch of beach here, you’ll encounter a number of companies offering rentals, wetsuits, and lessons for first-timers on SUPs or sea kayaks.

Horseshoe Bay is a spacious beach with calm waters, perfect for first-timers for either water sport, or for experts to get some serious distances in. With public restrooms nearby and plenty of cafes along the main strip here, you’ll have plenty of options for resting and having a feed after your session too.

4. Hike the inland Arcadia Walking Trail

Outdoorsy visitors will want to embark on a Maggie inland hike through Magnetic Island National Park. The Arcadia Walking Trail feels more like classic Aussie bushwalking through narrow jungle trails and hiking over granite steps and riverbeds. A number of amazing lookout points over Horseshoe Bay and Arcadia town are the reward for hikers embarking on this moderate-difficulty trail.

Note: If you only have time for one hike on Magnetic Island, I recommend the Forts walk for its history, views, and koala-spotting potential (Things to do on Magnetic Island #2)

5. Hang out at Alma Bay Beach

Alma Bay beach is my favorite beach on Maggie, and visiting here is one of my top things to do on Magnetic Island. The beach is protected on both sides by rocky cliffs, meaning relatively calm waves. 

Leading up to the sandy stretch is also a large grassy park with picnic benches, shaded areas, and public restrooms. With a Newsagent selling beach toys and a handful of restaurants across the street, you could easily spend an entire day here.

6. Visit the Rock Wallabies (my favorite thing to do on Magnetic Island!)

Maggie is home to a number of tiny marsupials called rock wallabies, a breed native to the island and even smaller than mainland wallabies. They come out of the boulders at the end of Armand Way near Arcadia town. The skittish creatures often come out for water and a feed before going back into their boulder homes. If you see an empty water bowl, fill it for them!

Check their location on Google Maps here .

Tip: Although technically you’re not supposed to feed the wallabies, the Newsagent next to the Arcadia Village Hotel sells little packets of wallaby food for visitors.

7. Join the Wildlife Park Tour at Selina, Magnetic Island

One of the best ways to get up-and-close to Australian animals in Maggie is visiting the wildlife park and sanctuary at Selina (formerly the Bungalow Bay Koala Village). This park rehabilitates and houses injured or orphaned animals from Maggie and other parts of Australia. Twice per day, knowledgable rangers provide guided tours to guests who can get up-and-close to animals like a python, black cockatoo, blue-lounged lizard, crocodiles, wombat, echidna, and of course a koala.

Patting Harry, their snub-nosed wombat (orphaned as a baby and unable to return to the wild) was one of the highlights. He was so relaxed during the ranger talk that he stared pooping right in front of us!

Book the wildlife park tour through the Selina website  here . 

8. Admire the Hawkings Point Lookout Views

On an island filled with many incredible lookout spots, Hawkings Point Lookout over the southern side of the island is one of the best. The hike to the lookout starts at the side of the highway, and takes you over rocky Maggie scrub. 

The views here of Magnetic Island, Picnic Bay pier, and the surrounding Queensland coastline are a million bucks. Luckily you only need to hike a short distance to get to them!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mik Simons (@miksimons_photography)

9. Watch Cane Toad Racing on Wednesdays

The Arcadia Village Hotel on the east side of Maggie hosts an “only in Australia” event every Wednesday. Cane toad racing! These invasive species are massive pests across Australia, killing native insects, frogs, turtles, birds, and even larger creatures with their poisonous skin glands. In fact, under Queensland law people have a general biosecurity obligation to basically (humanely) get rid of them.

At Arcadia Village Hotel, the Cane Toad racing event helps fundraise for the Arcadia Surf Life Saving Club. Now that’s putting them to good use! See what other events are on at the Arcadia Village Hotel  here . 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arcadia Village Hotel (@arcadiavillagehotel)

10. Go to the local market on Sundays

Magnetic Island hosts a local market on Sundays at the Horseshoe Bay, where craftsmen and women from around the island gather to sell their products. From hand-sewn objects to paintings to jewelry, visiting the Horseshoe Bay market is an unmissable thing to do on Magnetic Island if you’re visiting on a Sunday! 

With live music on most days, street food vendors, and the pristine beach nearby, you could spend all morning hanging out with the locals here.

11. Visit Maggie Island Brewery

Did you know Magnetic Island has its own beer brewery? Beer drinkers and holidayers shouldn’t miss Maggie Island Brewery at Picnic Bay on the south side of the island. This trendy spot could be straight out of Brisbane instead of on a small island in North Queensland. 

Craft beers flow on tap here, and BBQ is available on-site from a food truck on the back lawn.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maggie Island Brewery (@maggieislandbrewery)

12. Spot Wild Koalas

Magnetic Island has one of the highest concentrations of wild koalas in all of Queensland! If seeing a koala in the wild is on your Australia bucket list, trying to spot one here is a top thing to do on Magnetic Island.

According to the locals, the best spot to see koalas on the island is on the Forts hike (mentioned above). From personal experience this is true! We saw two koalas on this hike, both having a nice snooze in the shade.

13. Spot Curlew Birds

Curlews, or bush stone-curlews, are ground-dwelling birds that are most commonly seen on islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia. To me they look like they’ve come straight out of a cartoon with their large eyes and spindly, quick-moving legs. 

Curlews are also a signature bird found on Magnetic Island, and visitors are sure to run into a number of comical curlews during their time on Maggie.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Environmental Education (@environmental.education)

14. Visit West Point Beach for sunset

On an island already known for its remote feel and small town vibes, West Point on the western side of Magnetic Island takes the cake. From Picnic Bay, take West Point road all the way to its end to find a wonderfully secluded little village and a wide, quiet beach that faces Townsville and mainland Australia.

There’s no better time to visit West Point than during sunset. When I visited during this serene time of the day, I was surprised there were not more people here! West Point beach is a great place to enjoy the sunset and have a romantic picnic by the water. 

15. Go Snorkeling or Diving

Magnetic island is known for being surrounded by Australia’s famous coral reefs on multiple sides. Snorkeling and diving are some of the most incredible things to do on Magnetic Island to experience the aquatic life that calls this island home.

Book the  Magnetic Island Snorkel Discovery Tour  with GetYourGuide. This 5-hour snorkeling tour takes you to secluded beaches (accessible by boat only!), coral reefs, and along Maggie’s scenic coastline. 

Alternatively, go diving from either Magnetic Island or Townsville to the wildly popular  Yongala Wreck dive spot . Rated one of the top ten diving spots around the world, divers won’t want to miss this on your next trip to Magnetic Island. 

If you’re interested in snorkeling and diving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, be sure to head up to Cairns , QLD too. Cairns is the gateway to many incredible sections of the Great Barrier Reef, which can be visited on a number of tours from town . 

16. Rent a Jetski

Another classic Magnetic Island activity is to rent a jetski and have a bit of fun on the water.   For jetski rentals on Magnetic Island, check out the highly rated (but not so creatively-named)  Jet Ski Hire Magnetic Island . The company rents out Seadoo GTI 130 jetskis for 30 minutes or 60 minutes at a time, and are based out of Horseshoe Bay. 

Due to the calmness of the water here, even first-time jetskiers can take part in the fun! (Unfortunately no leaving Horseshoe Bay with the jetskits)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jetski Hire Magnetic Island (@jetskihiremagneticisland)

17. Join a Sailing Cruise

Magnetic Island offers a number of sailing tours that take visitors around the island for an unforgettable experience. Due to the popularity of this activity and the limited spots available on most sailing experiences, it’s best to book in advance. 

Here are some options for sailing tours to add to your list of things to do in Magnetic Island:

• Pilgrim Sailing : Offers private charters and lunchtime, sunset, and full moon sailing cruises
• Island Time Cruises : Offers private charters, fishing tours, daytime and sunset sailing cruises

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pilgrim Sailing (@pilgrimsailing)

18. Admire the SS City of Adelaide Shipwreck

The SS City of Adelaide ship was a passenger steamship that sailed to Australia all the way from Scotland in 1863. It was later used as a cargo ship then finally laid to rest at its current location near Cockle Bay, Magnetic Island. It’s now an artificial island, home to its own ecosystem of greenery.

The SS City of Adelaide is now a popular snorkeling and diving spot, which can also be visited by sea kayak or jetski. If you have a drone, you can get amazing photos of this shipwreck island especially during high-tide. For the adventurous, during low tide it’s even possible to wade over to the wreck to see it with your own eyes!

19. Brunch at The Early Bird or Scallywags

Two unmissable eateries on Magnetic Island are The Early Bird cafe at Horseshoe Bay and Scallywags at Nelly Bay. Be sure to add both of these amazing spots on your list of things to do in Magnetic Island.

The Early Bird  serves up classic breakfast and brunch fare like avo toast, granola, various wraps and sandwiches, along with fresh smoothies and juices. All for a great price!

Scallywags  is a unique, pirate-themed restaurant located walking distance from the Ferry Terminal on Magnetic Island. They serve a variety of hearty meals with many gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options on the menu. Seating is open-air and service is from the on-site food truck.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The early bird cafe ☕️🥐 (@earlybirdmagnetic)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scallywags Veggie Galley (@scallywags_cafe)

20. Wine and Dine at Granite Magnetic Island or Mamma Roma

To cap off your Magnetic Island itinerary, be sure to schedule a dinner at Granite Magnetic Island or Mamma Roma, two of the most popular dinner venues on Maggie.

Granite Magnetic Island  is a tapas bar that specializes in pizzas but also offers sliders, bar buns, and Italian-style share plates. They have beer on tap, cocktails, and offer a variety of Australian wines too.

Mamma Roma  on the other hand is a BYO (bring your own alcohol) venue that serves up fresh pizzas and savory pastas. Pair your meal here with a beer from the neighboring Maggie Island Brewery – it’s a combo that can’t be beat.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Granite Magnetic Island (@granitemagneticisland)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mamma Roma Italian (@mammaromamagneticisland)

That’s all for my top things to do in Magnetic Island guide! I hope these give you some great ideas for crafting your next trip to beautiful Magnetic Island. 

Remember to  book your ferry tickets  from Townsville to Maggie in advance to save some time at the ferry terminal. 

If you loved Magnetic Island, be sure to check out North Stradbroke Island (“Straddie”) near Brisbane too for similar laid-back island vibes. 

Are You Prepared For Your Next Travelventures? 

• Book Your Flights – To find the cheapest flights, flexibility is key. I use both  Google Flights  and their low fare calendar, and  Skiplagged , which uses airfare loopholes to get the lowest prices. 
• Book Your Accommodation – Check out  Booking.com  for the largest selection of accommodation around the world. For backpackers,  Hostelworld.com  is also a favorite. 
• Buy Travel Insurance – It’s better to protect yourself from mishaps when traveling. Get a quote from  World Nomads  to see how much it’ll cost to get you covered! 
• Check Visa Requirements – From E-Visas to Visas-on-Arrival,  iVisa  has all the info on country visa requirements. If one is required, you can order one hassle-free through their site.  
• Book Local Excursions – Don’t miss out on world-class experiences by booking tours and tickets online, ahead of your arrival.  GetYourGuide has fun experiences from all around the world, and Klook  specializes in Asian destinations. 
• Pack Your Essentials – Check out my posts about Long Term Travel Gear , and Carry-On Luggage Packing Essentials ! 
• Read my Travel Resources page for more budget travel tips.

You might also like:

One Day in Auckland Itinerary

Scooter Rental in Tahiti

Turtle Rock and The Sphinx Hike at Girraween National Park

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Our Experience Staying at Bungalow Bay Koala Village, Magnetic Island

S o we’re naming the Bungalow Bay Koala Village on Magnetic Island as one of the coolest hostels in Australia. And there’s a good reason for this – it’s the only place on the island where you can sleep inside a wildlife sanctuary with cuddly koalas. How many places in the world allow this experience?

Whether you’re a budget traveler, or a family like us, there’s no competition when it comes to finding a place to stay on Magnetic Island, especially if you love animals like us.

It stole Kalyra’s heart. Everyday, she’d ask if she could do the wildlife tour and have breakfast with with crocs, lizards and snakes again.

She’s now got high expectations of places to stay, and it’s going to be hard work finding places to please her now!

But if you’re wondering what it’s like staying at Bungalow Bay Koala Village on Magnetic Island and need a bit more insight into the experience on offer, then this guide is for you. We’ve shared our personal experience staying here so you can decide if it’s an experience you’d like to have.

Disclaimer : We stayed at Bungalow Bay Koala Village in partnership with YHA Australia, but all thoughts, ideas and opinions in this guide are our own. We were in no obligation to write this guide, but did so because we felt it was an experience worth sharing.

This hostel was also previously owned by YHA, but is now owned and operated by the global luxury hostel brand, Selina, and has had some upgrades since we visited (which we have shared below).

Where Is Bungalow Bay Koala Village?

Facilities at bungalow bay koala village, breakfast with the koalas, lorikeet feeding, the verdict: would we recommend bungalow bay koala village.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village is perfectly located on Magnetic Island , just a five-minute walk from Horseshoe Bay, the biggest bay on Magnetic Island.

It’s known for the pretty sunsets and is the place where you’ll find the most cafes and bars.

Maggie island, as Magnetic Island is affectionately known, is not known for having a throbbing nightlife scene; that’s not what you come here for.

There’s a bus stop outside the hostel, which takes you all over the island. Well, up and down the one main road to most of the bays. You need a 4×4 to access some of the remote spots, but you can easily hire one from the front desk.

Our Experience Staying at Bungalow Bay Koala Village

The first thing we loved about Bungalow Bay Koala Village was that the staff are super friendly and went out of their way to research the best tours for us and organize cars to hire.

They helped book it all for us and eliminated a lot of the stress of planning our itinerary on the island.

The highlight of our trip being our full-day snorkeling and fishing tour around the island. Oh, and cruising around in a mini-convertible was cool.

In the evening, we ordered some delicious food from the onsite restaurant, HOWM.

The restaurant is open all day, from breakfast to dinner, and even has snacks if you prefer something light.

They serve up fresh mediterranean meals using Aussie produce, and also have cold beers on tap.

The menu choices are limited, but it’s delicious. We also felt that for Maggie Island, the onsite restaurants were decently priced so we ate there most nights!

There’s a camp kitchen, which in my opinion needed its facilities updating, so I just chose not to cook there.

I realized while I was there why I was such a grumble bum about it.

Since having children, mostly since having two children, cooking is the only time of the day I get to myself.

It’s when I can completely zone out and just appreciate being in the moment enjoying the cooking creation, listening to music and loving my own space.

Shared kitchens are bugging me because I have to share that “me time” with other people, and I get irritated with them in my space.

Vastly different to my backpacking days where the kitchen was where all the fun conversations happened.

That’s just my thing though! For anyone else, the kitchen works fine. The Bungalow Bay Koala Village kitchen is more like an outdoor camp kitchen, which does blend in with the rest of the property.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village is also different as there is a campground here. In fact, it’s the only campground on the island.

I like how this caters to a wider market of travellers and allows you to pitch your own tent, which saves you a lot of money when traveling in Australia.

It’s also set in a really pretty location in the forest and has a true island vibe with A-frame bungalows as hostel rooms, rather than one big building.

There’s a lovely chill-out corner with bean bags underneath a gorgeous tree the girls loved climbing all over. It’s a hit with the kids AND the adults as a place to read or chat.

The other place you can chill out is in a hammock by the outdoor swimming pool. How’s that for serenity?

We were lucky to get an 8-bed A-frame bungalow to ourselves which consisted of 4 double bunks. It suited our family of four nicely.

I loved how it came with its own private bathroom with a toilet and shower. So much better than walking through the halls to the communal bathroom and fighting your way through the line of a morning to get to the shower.

You can also find single, twin, and double rooms, plus a-frame bungalows that suit a group of 6-8.

If you’re solo traveling, you can find a shared A-frame bungalow which serves as a dorm room, so even if you travel alone you still get the bungalow experience.

Since we visited, Selina have modernised this hostel and now also feature a coworking space, which is ideal for those digital nomads who need a space to work.

They have also added more events, which weren’t an offering during out visit. You can find weekly gatherings of drums circles, as well as pool-side djs and live entertainment. They even have fire shows!

They have also added a yoga deck and a movie room, which was not available when we visited.

The REAL attraction at the Bungalow Bay Koala Village is the wildlife.

If you are staying here you must make the experience that more unique by taking part in the breakfast with the koalas and the wildlife walk.

Breakfast that starts with champagne is always a winner. And the kids loved cooking their toast over an open fire.

The Aussie bush breakfast is held in the small wildlife park beside the main hostel area. It’s a cooked buffet breakfast and the koala sits happily munching his brekkie beside you in a small tree.

While you’re having breakfast the rangers bring around lots of wild animals you can hold – snakes, water dragons, lizards, birds and koalas.

You can pay extra to have a photo taken with a koala. I don’t think you’ll find it as cheap anywhere else in Australia.

I just love cuddling a koala, they cling to you like little babies.

The Wildlife Tour

Another experience worth having when you stay at the Selina Bungalow Bay Koala Village is the wildlife tour. It’s especially great if you have kids.

The girls learned so much and had a ball. Kalyra braved up to hold a snake and a crocodile (baby) for the first time. I don’t think she’ll ever forget that experience.

And Craig and I won’t forget kissing a black cockatoo for the first time either – handsome devil he was!

The wildlife tour is intimate and hands on. We learned a lot about the animals and got to experience holding them, patting them or even cuddling them – yep, another koala cuddle.

Every afternoon at 4:30pm the Bungalow Bay Koala Village has a free lorikeet feeding.

Bring your laughter and calm nerves for this one. They will fly all over you and happily perch on your head.

Kalyra panicked after the tenth one landed on her, her squeals rising because I was not helping her – the laughter had weakened my body too much and I really wanted to get a photo first!

Savannah gripped onto my legs in fear.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village is an enchanting retreat that’s not only surrounded by beautiful nature but offers an experience that no other accommodation on Magnetic Island can offer – a chance to stay in a wildlife sanctuary.

What sets Bungalow Bay Koala Village apart is not only its unique wildlife experience but also the knowledgeable and caring rangers and staff, who go out of their way to provide information and book entertaining tours for you, and strive to make sure you have a memorable trip.

From wildlife encounters to hands-on experiences, paired with the relaxed atmosphere and tranquil jungle surroundings, it’s the perfect place to stay if you need somewhere to relax and recharge.

The bungalows were spacious and the private bathroom was a welcomed touch. The only downside was the kitchen facilities which needed modernizing, but other than that, there really were no issues with our stay.

On the whole, we would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a place to stay on Magnetic Island.

You can find prices, availability, and read more reviews via Booking.com.

• Things to do on Magnetic Island
• Things to do in Townsville
• Island getaways in Australia
• Things to do in Queensland