4 Hostels in Magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia

About Magnetic Island

Located 8km offshore from Townsville, Queensland, and a short 25-minute ferry ride you'll be in beach paradise. Let yourself unwind and relax with the tropical lifestyle that surrounds this stunning island. Situated within the World Heritage site along the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island has an unusual landscape compared to the rainforests found on most Great Barrier Reef islands.

We have beach-house hostels, stylish mini bungalows and traditional hostel dwellings. Fancy kipping next door to a koala sanctuary? Or perhaps you’d prefer to sleep with the soothing ocean waves right outside your window? There’s even a Magnetic Island hostel with its own tropical gardens for you to explore. You will find BBQs, outdoor pizza ovens and communal kitchens to get your cook on! There are plenty of private room options, with single and double beds, air con and luxury bedding. Or nab yourself a dorm, there are even a female sanctuary dorm – with available pamper package! We have chilled Magnetic Island hostels and hostels which come alive at night with tunes and party games.

Magnetic Island may not be huge, but it has plenty of variety, so choosing where to stay is still important. If you’re planning to really get amongst the island’s nature, you should opt to stay within the island’s national park – yep that’s possible! All the hostels are within easy reach of the island’s beaches, situated along the coast. The closest accommodation to the mainland, Townsville, can be found in the leafy tranquillity of Picnic Bay. As you edge further up the coast you will find hostels in Nelly Bay, which is where the boats will drop you on the island. This is the perfect place to snorkel or dive around the reefs. Over half the island’s population lives here so expect the most variety of places to eat and drink. Keep travelling up to the top of the island and you’ll find places to stay within Horseshoe Bay, an excellent spot to sample the water sports on offer.

Magnetic Island is not shy of beaches: you'll be in tropical paradise with over 23 bays and beaches to choose from (talk about tough decisions). Taking the 1.2km Hawkings trek is a great option for stunning views across the island. Take advantage of the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep and go snorkel or dive the SS Yongala Wreck. If you've always wanted to cuddle a koala you can make your dreams come true at Bungalow Bay Koala Village. Water sports fans will be spoilt for choice as there are jet skis, kayaks, paddle boards and sailing. Or perhaps you’re waiting to unleash your inner goddess and take a horseback ride along the beach.

A variety of transportation options on Magnetic Island makes getting around easy, from walking and riding to public transport, you'll be impressed with just how easy it is to explore the island. You'll find a public bus that runs daily from 6am to 10pm, car hire and taxi services. For more eco-friendly ways of exploring try hiring a bike or explore on foot with over 26km of walking trails linking bays and secluded beaches.