Magnetic Island is magnetic both by name and nature. Originally
named for its interference to Captain Cook’s compass, it now draws
visitors from far and wide, and for good reason. With more than 22 secluded
bays and beaches, spectacular fringing reefs and a flora and fauna filled
National Park, Magnetic Island is a nature lover’s paradise and
with an average of 320 fine days every year, Magnetic Island is the sunniest
spot on the Queensland coast.
The Island is a charming holiday destination characterised by the fact
that it is an island community with a resident population of over 2000,
and has a wide variety of environmental experiences and attractions.
There are tracks meandering all over the island, and perhaps the most
popular of them is the one that leads to the now disused World War II
emplacements that face out to sea from the camouflage of huge granite
boulders. The Command Post offers a breathtaking 360 degree panoramic
view of Townsville, Cape Bowling Green and Palm Island.
 A
huge variety of wildlife can be seen on Magnetic Island. In fact the Island
is sometimes known as the "Koala Capital of Australia." There
are also large numbers of possums, rock wallabies, curlews, hawks, eagles
and parrots, to name a few.
The more observant visitor should be able to spot most of the 160 species
of Magnetic Island birdlife.
The vegetation on the Island is also diverse, with pockets of lowland,
tropical rainforests, mudflats, freshwater lagoons, eucalypt woodlands
and mangrove fringes supporting an abundance of habitats.
 You
can get to the island by the car and passenger ferry located on Ross Street,
South Townsville, or you can jump aboard the ferry service ‘‘Sunferries’,
taking only 25 minutes, with the terminal located near to the city centre
on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive. Come over and enjoy the most relaxing stay
you will ever experience.
Magnetic Island Maps
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