Magnetic Island
There must be something right about a place that doesn’t even need to advertise the fact that it is a World Heritage listed site.
Magnetic Island was given its name because of the magnetic effect it had on Captain Cook’s compass as he sailed by it. The small island, which is a short ferry ride from Townsville, still has quite a magnetic pull to visitors.
This strikingly beautiful island is best discovered by bicycle. The slow pace gives you the time needed to witness the wildlife properly and interact with the friendly locals. Koalas are quite common around the tree tops of Magnetic Island.
If marine life is more up your stream, guided kayak tours can bring you around the beautiful bays and give you the chance to see dolphins, turtles and other coral reef fish.
Every few weeks, Magnetic Island holds a full moon party, much like Thailand’s’ Ko Pha Ngan. After a day of exploring the beauty of the island, a full moon party is a deserved reward. Held every few weeks during full moon by Base Backpackers,
hundreds gather and party to the sounds of the DJs from 5:30pm to 6am. Make sure you book accommodation early during full moon, as it gets booked out very quickly.
As well as nature and nightlife, Magnetic Island offers a host of shops for essential goods or locally crafted souvenirs. There is also a golf club for a few rounds and a collection of restaurants in which to relax at the end of the day. Or, if you are too tired, you can just chill out on the beach and watch the lights of Townsville from across the water.
For further information, try www.magnetic-island.com.au.
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