TOWNSVILLE - NATIONAL PARKS
Magnetic Island is the "natural destination" with a wide variety of environmental experiences and attractions that
characterise the island.
Two thirds of the island is protected National Park. Some 25 kilometres of magnificent national park walks help create a
bushwalkers or nature lover's paradise. Twenty three spectacular beaches and bays fringe the island, with
many accessible by road.
In addition to its pristine beaches, the dramatic coastline of this picturesque, granite island is also studded with
magnificent hoop pines growing directly in the rugged, boulder strewn coastline. Views from the winding roads or well designed
walking tracks are among the most spectacular in the world.
Over 100 species of prolific birdlife have been sighted on the island, including Bluewing
Kookaburras, Sulphur Crested Cockatoos and Black Cockatoos.
Walkers on the easy 1.4 km trek to the historic "Forts" lookout are often rewarded with the sighting of koalas.
For bushwalkers, there is every chance of sighting these animals in the wild almost anywhere on the island, as this
is the most northerly point in Australia to have large free ranging colonies. Rock wallabies are also commonly sighted.
For a guaranteed koala experience, a visit to the island's koala sanctuary at Horseshoe Bay is a
"must".
For diving enthusiasts, superb fringing coral reefs and the wreck of the Moltke, which went down in Geoffrey Bay,
are just two of the spectacular diving sites. The wreck dive is particularly popular at night when it is
teeming with fish life.
Tidal wetland areas exist at West Point, accessible via an 8km walk from Picnic Bay. This walk will offer the chance to
sight wading birds, mud skippers, fiddler crabs and mangrove snails that inhabit these wetlands, particularly in the
Cockle Bay area.
