Discover the hidden gems of Magnetic Island aboard Sandy, a lively yellow rib boat run by Pilgrim Adventures. Offering three unique experiences. "Three Bays in Three Ways" provides a private boat ride to three secluded locations, snorkelling in vibrant marine environments and a gourmet lunch while enjoying breathtaking island views. "Circumnavigate Magnetic Island’s Famous Five" takes you along the stunning coastline to explore landmarks like the S.S. Adelaide and Orchard Rocks. "Sea Magnetic Island’s Secret Seven" lets you join a marine scientist to explore fringing reefs, historic wrecks, and vibrant coral gardens. Additionally, you can enjoy a "Gourmet Picnic on a secluded Beach" with a private boat transfer to a pristine beach within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury.

Embarking on the hike from Nelly Bay to Arcadia offers adventurers the opportunity to experience Magnetic Island's longest and most immersive trek.

The journey commences along Mandalay Avenue in Nelly Bay, guiding hikers through a serene patch of rainforest nestled beside the meandering Gustav Creek. As the trail unfolds, it gently ascends, eventually reaching the picturesque saddle between Nelly and Horseshoe Bays. Along this ridge, hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas overlooking the azure waters of Horseshoe Bay, punctuated by colossal boulders that provide perfect vantage points to pause and soak in the natural beauty.

As the path diverges, one route continues toward Horseshoe Bay, while the other descends towards Arcadia, passing by the renowned Sphinx lookout.

The Nelly Bay trail, a 20-minute walk from the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, commences about 100 meters from the beach, near Base Backpackers. Marked by four numbered surface floats, this underwater journey begins with a swim over reef-building corals, including the critically endangered Staghorn coral, with the possibility of encountering schools of Angelfish, Spiny Chromis, and Yellowtail Demoiselle fish. You'll find the first five of eight Giant Clams that call the Nelly Bay trail home between the first and second floats, surrounded by hard corals. These clams were translocated in 2013 as part of a conservation effort. Brain coral is abundant between the third and fourth floats; here, you'll discover the remaining three Giant Clams on the trail. As you head towards the fifth float and return to the shore, you can anticipate encountering more corals and schools of fish along the way.

Across from the stunning Magnetic Island Marina, you’ll find the island’s newest helipad as part of the marina precinct. A long path winds around a green space, and rock wallabies hop and scurry around the rocks that meet the ocean.

There are several benches to sit on and watch the passing ferries and yachts, and the pathway provides an excellent spot for kids to practice their bike riding or rollerblading skills.

The space is across a small bridge connecting the Nelly Bay esplanade and the Nelly Bay Boat Ramp. Bring the kids out for an afternoon of pure chill as they play in the playground, meet the rock wallabies, and soak in the stretch of sand that runs right up to Nomads Backpackers, where delicious Island Burger awaits you.

Nestled between Picnic and Nelly Bays, the Rocky Bay lookout beckons as one of the island's most easily accessible vantage points. From this elevated perch, you're treated to breathtaking ocean vistas, overlooking the picturesque Rocky Bay and extending across to Nelly and Geoffrey Bays, with sweeping views encompassing Cleveland Bay.

If you like an adventure, beneath lies the tranquil Rocky Bay beach, a hidden gem that requires a hike. This sandy enclave, cradled by iconic towering boulders, often offers the luxury of solitude on its short stretch of sand.

Tiny Palm Coffee can be found within Jungle Club in Nelly Bay. This charming coffee van serves delicious coffee and treats, including chia puddings and banana bread. Moreover, they are dedicated to minimizing plastic usage, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and life on Maggie.

While you enjoy your refreshments, take advantage of the inviting courtyard or relax on deck chairs. The complex even has a swimming pool for those seeking a refreshing dip.

Alongside Tiny Palm Coffee, you'll find Locale Co-working, Juniper and Co, a clothing boutique, a photography studio, and various art studios, making Jungle Club a vibrant hub of creativity and collaboration.

The Hinks family, longtime residents of Magnetic Island, offers diverse island tours with a focus on education and exploration. With over three decades of island experience, Steph and Adam, both qualified Master Reef Guides, customise their tours to showcase the best of the island daily.

Their discovery tour explores the rugged southern coastline, offering snorkelling, morning tea, and scenic refreshments. The circumnavigation tour takes you to the northern and secluded beaches, including the stunning Five Bays, and provides a light island-style lunch. The Sunset and Shipwreck tour offers captivating stories of the SS City of Adelaide while witnessing incredible sunsets along the coastline.

Aquascene Charters has a shop where you can meet the team and purchase snorkel gear, sun-safe clothing, and reef-friendly sunscreen.