MAGNETIC ISLAND
QUEENSLAND
Magnetic Island was named by Captain Cook back in 1770. The settlement of the island started in 1864 and now it has a residential population using fast ferry service to Townsville over the 3 nautical miles that that separates the island from the city. The trip takes only 20 minutes.
Magnetic Island is part of the World Heritage Marine Park and it attracts yachts and tour boats to explore the underwater beauty of reefs and fish. It has walking tracks that take those eager to exercise from Horseshoe Bay to Florence and Nelly Bays. Hiking offers fabulous contact with nature and wildlife. Snorkeling and diving are amazing and swimming in warm, clear waters pure pleasure. There are net enclosures for swimmers to protect them from jelly fish. It is not uncommon to sight turtles or swim with curious trewally fish or smaller gar fish.
Magnetic Island has a scenic coastline of colorful rocks and vegetation. It is a popular weekend destination for boaters from Townsville and it attracts many yachts.
Magnetic Island is a fabulous natural treasure of North Queensland.
