Nestled between ocean and rugged hills, Nelly Bay is an attractive island village and is only 20 minutes away from Townsville by ferry. While only small, Nelly Bay provides all the services you may need to make the most of your time on the island. That’s because its marina is the gateway to the rest of Magnetic Island and most visitor services operate from here.
Enjoy the view of the island as you arrive on the ferry. The Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal and marina are in the northeast of Nelly Bay, while the beach stretches down the island’s southwest coast.
Take a stroll along the beach and take in the views across the ocean to the mainland. Put on a mask and snorkel and marvel at the coral and marine life of the fringing reef that runs down the length of the beach. Afterwards, relax with a picnic or barbecue in the parklands at the northern end of the beach and let the kids run wild in the children's playground. Coin-operated barbecues and picnic tables are provided.
Learn about the underwater world with a visit to the little Aquasearch Aquarium, that specializes in the region’s giant clams. Let the kids try and find Nemo amongst the clown fish that hide within anemones. Touch tanks allow visitors to interact with different marine creatures.
There are walking tracks for you to explore from Nelly Bay too. Look for the koalas and rock wallabies that are commonly seen on the island.
After all the activities, treat yourself to a meal or a drink at a café or restaurant with a view. The year-round tropical climate provides a good excuse for an ice cream or cold drink. It’s also ideal for al fresco dining along the waterfront, even on a winter’s night.
If you find all this too hard to leave behind, use Nelly Bay as your base while you explore more of Magnetic Island by booking your accommodations here. To get around, simply take a taxi, a transfer bus or rent a car from Nelly Bay’s ferry terminal.
