10 free things to do on Maggie

10 free things to do on Maggie

We've done the hard work and compiled our top 10 island moments you won't want to miss - all for free, just BYO snorkel!

1. WALK ON WATER

Take a stroll along our heritage-listed Picnic Bay Jetty and immerse yourself in the ocean blues while trying to spot the diverse wildlife that frequents this part of the island, including turtles, dugongs, rays, and eagles.

Local tip - the sunsets from the jetty over Nobby’s Headland are next level.

2. REACH NEW HEIGHTS

Discover our incredible Forts Walk, nestled in the hills between Arcadia and Horseshoe Bay. You'll be rewarded with 360-degree views from the top, a touch of history, vistas over secluded bays, and dense national parks. It's also the number one spot to spy our resident koalas.

3. STORIES FROM THE SEA

The SS City of Adelaide, a historic shipwreck off Magnetic Island, that met its watery fate in 1916, holds a special place in the island's maritime heritage. The wreck is accessible from Cockle Bay during (very) low tides and always by sea. Join a tour to learn its fascinating history and enjoy wildlife spotting along the way.

4. CATCH THE SUNSET

We'll boast a bit here – when it comes to sunsets, we truly shine. Whether you're a laid-back sunset seeker looking for minimal effort or keen to turn it into an afternoon excursion, we've got you covered. Our top picks? For a relaxed experience, head to Horseshoe Bay; for a sunset adventure, make your way to West Point.

5. MEET A FURRY LOCAL

Maggie has an abundant population of Allied Rock Wallabies for you to meet and grab a cheeky selfie with. For the best chance of spotting them, travel to the far end of Geoffrey Bay and turn into the old Arcadia Jetty Road (across from Arcadia Village), look for them feeding in the early morning and late afternoon.

Please note: we would prefer our wildlife forage for their food but if you’re hoping to feed them, follow our advice here.

6. DIVE DEEP

In case you didn't know, our snorkel trails rank in the top 10 sites in Queensland. The Geoffrey Bay snorkel trail features highlights such as giant clams, the Moltke wreck, and remnants from WWII, including an aeroplane propeller and engine block. Need we say more? If you need gear, just check in with Hayls and Chad at Pleasure Divers across the road from the trail.

7. BEACH, PLEASE

Oh, Maggie, did someone mention secluded beaches? Our top picks are Arthur Bay, Florence Bay, Radical Bay, and Rocky Bay. Arthur and Rocky are the easiest to access, but Florence and Radical are definitely worth the hike! If you're doing the Forts Walk, take the Wumbu track towards Horseshoe Bay, passing Radical along the way (and treat yourself to a gelato when you’re done!).

8. WINTER MAGIC

We're almost convinced this is where the fairies reside on Magnetic Island. Nestled in a serene back street in Horseshoe Bay, thousands of Blue Tiger Butterflies (Tirumala Hamata) migrate here to take refuge for the winter. Join a tour with Neil at Magnetic Island Tours or find it for yourself, get the directions here.

9. SAY CHIRP CHIRP

No visit to Magnetic Island is complete without a wildlife encounter, and this one might be the most overlooked. Every afternoon around 4 pm, lorikeets flock to Roamer in Horseshoe Bay, offering a heartwarming family experience at no cost! Additionally, Roamer Magnetic Island features an onsite wildlife park with two daily tours, starting at $50 per person. If your budget allows, you can join a tour to meet Claudia the koala and Harry, the resident wombat!

10. LOOKY LOOKY

With its breathtaking views overlooking Geoffrey Bay, Gabul Way never disappoints. It's a prime location to witness the humpback whale migration and take in the sights of Magnetic Island Race Week. Plus, the walk is wheelchair and mobility-aid-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all. Our tip, head to Arcadia Bakehouse after and enjoy some warm pastries from Barb and Richard!