Magnetic Island Accommodation
Set just off the coast of Townsville in North Queensland, Magnetic Island is a sun-drenched tropical paradise that’s only a hop, skip and a jump to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef. With 23 secluded bays and beaches, more than 25km of walking trails and two-thirds of the island protected as national park, Magnetic is a destination packed to the brim with nature, adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
We have a curated collection of Magnetic Island accommodation options that will bring you closer to the island’s spectacular natural beauty – it doesn’t matter if you’re visiting for a romantic retreat, a family getaway or a solo escape into nature. We’ll help you find the perfect place to stay right here.
Discover Magnetic Island
Fondly known as ‘Maggie’ by the locals, Magnetic Island is all about mixing the rugged charm of Australian bushland with the laid-back luxury of a tropical island. Set just 8km offshore from Townsville, it takes only 20 minutes by ferry to arrive at this idyllic destination – yet it feels a world away thanks to the island’s:
- Stunning beaches and gorgeous coral reefs.
- Iconic granite boulders and dazzling eucalyptus forests.
- Great for snorkelling, bushwalking and koala-spotting.
- Laid-back villages like Nelly Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Picnic Bay, Arcadia and Geoffrey Bay
- Local markets, art galleries, cafes and restaurants – all with that relaxed island feel.
Where to stay
Perfectly positioned just 50 metres from the Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal in Nelly Bay, Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island stuns with its premier oceanfront accommodation and unbeatable access to everything this vibrant island has to show for itself.
It’s a remarkable oceanfront property that houses fully self-contained apartments featuring both modern comfort and coastal style. Planning to soak up the Coral Sea views or set out to explore the island? Whatever your holiday tastes, you’ll find yourself in a place that makes everything easy.
For budget conscious travellers tucked within 10 acres of tropical gardens at the foothills of Magnetic Island National Park, Amaroo Rainforest Resort Magnetic Island offers a relaxed, great‑value island escape surrounded by nature. Just minutes from Nelly Bay, the resort is ideal for couples, families, groups, schools and sporting teams seeking comfortable 3‑star accommodation in a peaceful rainforest setting.
Guests can unwind by the lagoon‑style pool, stroll through the spacious leafy grounds, or use the resort as a base to explore Magnetic Island’s beaches, walking trails and wildlife encounters. Amaroo Rainforest Resort delivers an easy, laid‑back stay that feels worlds away from the everyday.
4.5 Star Accommodation Options
Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island offers a range of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, there’s something to suit every type of traveller and group. All apartments are fully self-contained, so they are perfect for families, groups, couples or solo travellers looking for a little extra space and comfort.
Apartment highlights:
- Full kitchen with dishwasher, oven and fridge.
- Spacious open-plan living and dining areas.
- Private balconies with ocean view
- Laundry facilities.
- Smart TVs and free WiFi.
- Air conditioning and ceiling fans.
- All apartments feature an outdoor balcony.
Resort features:
- Resort-style infinity edge swimming pools including oceanfront and rooftop pools.
- Heated outdoor jacuzzi.
- Well-equipped gymnasium.
- Guest BBQ areas and outdoor dining spaces.
- Car hire available on-site, plus undercover parking.
- Easy walk to the local shops, cafes and restaurants.
Here for a few days or a few weeks? It doesn’t matter because Grand Mercure promises all the comforts you’ll need to enjoy a relaxing island retreat.
Budget Accommodation Option
The spacious Amaroo Rainforest Resort Magnetic Island sits across 10 acres of leafy tropical gardens, giving guests room to slow down, spread out and reconnect with nature. You might spot wallabies grazing on the lawns at dusk, kookaburras perched in the treetops, or vibrant birdlife flitting through the palms as you wander the grounds.
Resort hightlights
- Large Magnesium Salt Pool
- Wading Pool
- Large open spaces
- Tennis courts
- BBQ area
- Children’s playground.
The resort offers studio units and family rooms, catering for singles to large groups, weekends to extended stays. All air-conditioned rooms offer a kitchenette with a microwave, fridge and toaster plus a patio seating area with garden views.
What to see and do on Magnetic Island
Once you’ve settled into your Magnetic Island accommodation, it’s time to get out and see why this beautiful island captures the hearts of so many visitors year after year. If you’re here for adventure, nature or pure relaxation, there are countless activities to take advantage of.
A whopping 78% of Magnetic Island is protected national or conservation park filled with native flora and fauna. The island’s walking tracks steer you through towering gums, secret beaches, scenic lookouts and so much more, with the most popular trails including:
- Forts Walk: The most famous hike on the island, guiding you to historic World War II ruins and giving you the best chance to see a koala in the wild.
- Hawkings Point Track: A short walk with stunning sunrise views over Picnic Bay.
- Nelly Bay to Arcadia: A more challenging walk that rewards those who master it with panoramic sea views and stunning greenery.
With countless beaches to explore, you’re never far from a solid stretch of sand. Popular spots include:
- Horseshoe Bay for a true hub of activity, with kayak hire, jet ski tours, bars and restaurants.
- Geoffrey Bay for its rock wallabies and excellent snorkelling.
- Picnic Bay for swimming and fishing from the historic jetty.
- Arcadia, which is a favourite among locals and home to Alma Bay – great for family swimming.
As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Magnetic Island doesn’t disappoint with fantastic snorkelling opportunities, with fringing reefs just a short jaunt directly from the shore. Don’t miss the self-guided snorkel trails at Geoffrey Bay and Nelly Bay, or book a diving trip to explore deeper reefs and shipwrecks nearby.
In addition to koalas, rock wallabies and colourful birdlife, you might also spot sea turtles, rays and even whales during migration season. Wildlife encounters on Magnetic Island are at their best both spontaneous and magical.
From casual fish and chips to waterfront fine dining, there’s something here to satisfy every taste. You’ll find a great mix of cuisines across Nelly Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay. Enjoy cocktails at a beachfront bar, breakfast at a local cafe or stock up on groceries at the island’s supermarket if you prefer to cook in your apartment.
Getting here is quick and easy. Ferries run regularly from Townsville, with multiple services daily. Once on the island, you can explore via:
- Rental car or scooter
- Local bus service connecting all major bays and villages.
- Walking and hiking.
Magnetic Island is also super-compact, which makes it easy to see a lot without going too far.
Why stay with at Hotel Group?
When you book your Magnetic Island holiday with at Hotel Group, you’re booking more than just a room, you’re choosing a great location, exceptional service, fantastic local advice and premium accommodation that will deliver you the laid-back luxury of island life. Our guests choose us for:
- Prime oceanfront positioning.
- A wide selection of apartment options.
- Excellent facilities including pools, spas, gyms and more.
- Flexible check-in/check-out (subject to availability).
- Friendly local knowledge and support.
Every stay on Magnetic Island is a memorable one, and every guest will enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer.
Magnetic Island is a hugely popular destination all year round. We highly recommend booking early to make sure you get the best choice of available apartments and can take advantage of early bird specials. Our direct booking benefits also include:
- Exclusive packages.
- Flexible cancellation policies.
- Local support and advice.
With different styles of accommodation to choose from, multiple swimming pools and plenty of natural attractions and local eateries nearby, Grand Mercure and Amaroo guarantees the flexibility and independence of a holiday rental with all the perks of a resort stay.
So if you’re here for a romantic weekend or a school holiday break with the kids, our apartments are the perfect home base to enjoy Magnetic Island, the Great Barrier Reef and everything this tropical paradise has in store for holidaymakers.
Scenic walks, coral reef adventures, quiet beaches and stacks of family-friendly activities – Magnetic Island really is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. And with at Hotel Group, you can experience it all in comfort and style.
Book your Magnetic Island accommodation now and make your next holiday one you’ll never forget.