Horseshoe Bay is an idyllic town set on the sun-soaked shores of Magnetic Island. A tropical paradise, the coastal gem features a crescent-shaped beach with golden sand and crystalline water. Bask in the sunshine, swim in the Coral Sea and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is at your fingertips in Horseshoe Bay. From snorkelling with colourful fish to scuba diving on vibrant coral reefs, the park is a wonderland for ocean enthusiasts. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities, allowing you to explore the bay while admiring the stunning coastal scenery.
Off the beach, well-marked trails make it easy to explore the lush rainforests of Magnetic Island. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including koalas, wallabies and iconic Australian birds like rainbow lorikeets and sulphur-crested cockatoos. The hike to Forts Walk winds through Magnetic Island National Park and rewards you with sweeping views.
Horseshoe Bay boasts a vibrant dining scene that shines the spotlight on local flavours and ingredients. Enjoy brunch at a beachfront café and order fresh-caught barramundi from breezy seafood restaurants.
Getting there
Horseshoe Bay is on Magnetic Island and easily accessible by ferry from Townsville. Regular services connect Magnetic Island to the mainland in 40 minutes. The Nelly Bay Terminal is a 10-minute drive away.