Maggie, as 2500 locals affectionately know her, is a perfect island escape. Magnetic Island is a quick ferry ride from the mainland of Townsville. (See Maps)

The island is two thirds protected national park and with 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of untouched paradise and all the luxuries of today’s modern cities.

Exotic tropical fish and marine life flourish in the surrounding coral reefs and tranquil waters.

Surrounded by bird life including kookaburras, sulphur-crested cockatoos, red-tailed black cockatoos, brahminy kites and of course the island’s national bird, the bush stone-curlew.

Two thirds of the island, (5184 hectares), is protected national park with walking tracks guiding visitors through thick bushland, ranging from dry wattles and the beautiful barks of eucalypts to pockets of rainforest.  With 25kms of trails to explore and being home to Northern Australia’s largest colony of koalas– the island’s Forts Walk is definitely worth a visit.

The Island’s National Park is also home to a large colony of rock wallabies and it’s these world class bush walks on the island that allow native Australian animals to be viewed up close in their natural habitats.

Magnetic Island is definitely a unique tropical island destination perfect for the quick getaway.

Source: Townsville Enterprise Destination Tourism Oct 2008