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Our top choices for Picnic Bay hotels

Castle Crest Motel

Castle Crest Motel
3.0 star property
North Ward
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (101)
"Great place to stay for that overnight stay. Very clean and comfortable. Pricing of room is very reasonable. "
Australia
Rhonda
The price is NZ$213
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Castle Crest Motel

Banjo Paterson Motor Inn

Banjo Paterson Motor Inn
3.0 star property
Rosslea
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (290)
"Room clean and nicely presented. Staff were very prompt in serving us."
Australia
Kayleen
The price is NZ$150
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Banjo Paterson Motor Inn

Ingenia Holidays Townsville

Ingenia Holidays Townsville
3.5 star property
Deeragun
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (28)
"Beautiful "
Australia
Michelle
The price is NZ$134
includes taxes & fees
26 Jan - 27 Jan 2026
Ingenia Holidays Townsville

Raintree Motel

Raintree Motel
3.0 star property
Hermit Park
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (329)
"Clean room"
Australia
Humraj Singh
The price is NZ$138
includes taxes & fees
25 Jan - 26 Jan 2026
Raintree Motel

QCWA Kissing Point Units

QCWA Kissing Point Units
3.5 star property
North Ward
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (80)
"Thoroughly enjoyed our stay especially the ocean view. Such an amazing experience and excellent customer service."
Australia
Sheena
The price is NZ$187
includes taxes & fees
2 Jan - 3 Jan 2026
QCWA Kissing Point Units

Upper Ross Hotel

Upper Ross Hotel
2.5 star property
Rasmussen
6.0 out of 10, (39)
"Great large bed"
Australia
Craig
The price is NZ$98
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan 2026
Upper Ross Hotel

Townsville Southbank Apartments

Townsville Southbank Apartments
4.0 star property
South Townsville
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (216)
"Very nice, we are staying on our return trip. "
Australia
Lorraine
The price is NZ$305
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan 2026
Townsville Southbank Apartments

Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island

Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island
3.5 star property
Nelly Bay
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (13)
"Had an amazing weekend Great place to do lots or just relax. "
Australia
David
The price is NZ$485
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island

Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island

Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island
4.0 star property
Nelly Bay
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (338)
"Superb apartment, Amy on reception was amazing, super helpful & knew all best restaurants & bars :)) "
United Kingdom
Grant
The price is NZ$316
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026
Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island

Peppers Blue on Blue

Peppers Blue on Blue
4.0 star property
Nelly Bay
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (846)
"I enjoyed my stay and it was convenient to ferries to buses."
Australia
Zena
The price is NZ$286
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Peppers Blue on Blue

BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park

BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park
2.5 star property
Stuart
7.4 out of 10, Good, (13)
"Only thing i would change, would be need fans in cabin n 2 chairs on verandah. Apart from that, good stay n be back to stay again."
Australia
Barry
The price is NZ$107
includes taxes & fees
13 Jan - 14 Jan 2026
BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park

Magnetic Sunsets Resort

Magnetic Sunsets Resort
4.0 star property
Horseshoe Bay
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (53)
"Immaculately presented. We were very happy with our stay and will definitely look to book here again for future accommodation at Magnetic Island. Lovely lady who helped us with check in and made us feel very welcome throughout our stay. "
Australia
Alana
The price is NZ$259
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan 2026
Magnetic Sunsets Resort

The Ville Resort - Casino

The Ville Resort - Casino
4.5 star property
Townsville
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1000)
"Excellent location, great rooms"
Australia
Simon
The price is NZ$259
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
The Ville Resort - Casino

True North Bed & Breakfast

True North Bed & Breakfast
3.5 star property
Horseshoe Bay
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (116)
"Both the breakfast selection and quality were excelent."
Canada
David
The price is NZ$219
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026
True North Bed & Breakfast

The Colonial Rose Motel

The Colonial Rose Motel
3.5 star property
Mundingburra
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (209)
"The motel was clean tidy and clean and convenient to the hospital "
Australia
John
The price is NZ$176
includes taxes & fees
3 Jan - 4 Jan 2026
The Colonial Rose Motel

City Oasis Inn Townsville, SureStay Collection by BW

City Oasis Inn Townsville, SureStay Collection by BW
4.0 star property
Townsville
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (534)
"staff were really helpful, providing good information on the town. Easy to park, room was good and spacious, clean. "
United Kingdom
Iain
The price is NZ$171
includes taxes & fees
15 Jan - 16 Jan 2026
City Oasis Inn Townsville, SureStay Collection by BW

Spanish Lace Motor Inn

Spanish Lace Motor Inn
2.0 star property
Rosslea
The price is NZ$164
includes taxes & fees
30 Jan - 31 Jan 2026
Spanish Lace Motor Inn

Coolabah Motel

Coolabah Motel
2.0 star property
Rosslea
The price is NZ$146
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan 2026
Coolabah Motel

Park Regis Anchorage

Park Regis Anchorage
4.0 star property
South Townsville
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (751)
"A lovely stay"
Australia
bill
The price is NZ$145
includes taxes & fees
31 Jan - 1 Feb 2026
Park Regis Anchorage

Cascade Motel In Townsville

Cascade Motel In Townsville
2.0 star property
Rosslea
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (251)
"The room was clean and the kitchen well equipped. The staff were great, friendly and helpful. Would definitely stay again."
Canada
Deborah
The price is NZ$170
includes taxes & fees
1 Jan - 2 Jan 2026
Cascade Motel In Townsville
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular Picnic Bay attractions

Learn more about Picnic Bay

This tranquil Magnetic Island beach offers calm swimming waters and a historic jetty perfect for fishing and sunset views. Rent a kayak to explore the bay's crystal-clear waters or enjoy fresh seafood at the relaxed beachfront cafes.

Picnic Bay which includes a small town or village, boating and tranquil scenes

Top Picnic Bay Hotel Reviews

More cheap accommodation in Picnic Bay

Find out more about Picnic Bay

Top reasons to visit Picnic Bay

  • Stunning Beaches: Picnic Bay boasts beautiful sandy beaches and a picturesque bay, perfect for relaxation and beach sports.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of activities, from golf to exploring nearby national parks and reserves.
  • Historic Jetty: Visit the iconic Picnic Bay Jetty to soak in the tropical vibes and enjoy scenic views.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Experience lively music weekends that showcase the region's friendly atmosphere and local culture.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from family-friendly units to stylish apartments, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Picnic Bay

For a memorable getaway in Picnic Bay, Queensland, you'll discover a variety of accommodation options ranging from hotels to resorts, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking for family-friendly units, stylish apartments, or the best hotels for your stay, Picnic Bay offers an array of vacation rentals to suit every traveller's needs. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and create lasting memories in this beautiful destination.

  • Aquarius on the Beach: Embrace the sun and sea at Aquarius on the Beach, a welcoming 4-star hotel perfect for those seeking a beach getaway with an inclusive atmosphere. Located 8.0km from Picnic Bay, this property offers direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand right at their doorstep. Known for its LGBTQIA-friendly environment, Aquarius on the Beach is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for all. Guests praise its excellent service and vibrant community spirit, making it a great choice for a relaxed and fun-filled vacation.
  • Peppers Blue on Blue: For adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, Peppers Blue on Blue is a stunning 4.5-star resort situated 3.2km from Picnic Bay. This property offers a unique blend of exhilarating adventure sports such as kayaking, sailing, and snorkeling, alongside a full-service spa for ultimate relaxation. Guests can indulge in the serene pool area or treat themselves to a massage, ensuring a rejuvenating experience after a day of exploring. With its luxurious amenities and captivating views, Peppers Blue on Blue is the ideal destination for those looking to create unforgettable memories.
  • Shoredrive Motel: Experience the charm of coastal living at Shoredrive Motel, a convenient 3.5-star accommodation located 8.0km from Picnic Bay. This motel is perfect for travellers who want to enjoy both beach relaxation and city life, with direct access to the beach and proximity to the city centre. Guests appreciate the comfortable rooms and friendly service, making it a great base for exploring the local attractions and dining options. Shoredrive Motel combines affordability and accessibility, ensuring a delightful stay for all who visit.

Where to stay near Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay, Queensland, offers a delightful vacation experience perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the stunning Picnic Bay Beach and the historic Picnic Bay Jetty, where you can soak in the tropical vibes. For a true island getaway, venture to nearby pristine bay beaches that promise relaxation and fun. With its friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options, Picnic Bay is an idyllic destination for a memorable holiday.

  • Townsville: Located approximately 9.7km from Picnic Bay, Townsville is a vibrant city that offers a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. The city is known for its warm climate, making it a year-round destination, although visitor numbers peak from July to September. Townsville boasts various attractions, including its impressive stadium and recreational parks, where you can enjoy sports and entertainment. Explore the beautiful beachfront, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, or engage in educational experiences at local museums. With a lively atmosphere, Townsville provides a fantastic base for your Queensland holiday.
  • Magnetic Island: Just 4.8km from Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island is a stunning island getaway that promises outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. This beautiful destination sees peak visitor numbers in April, July, and September, attracting those seeking a unique experience amidst nature. The island is renowned for its national parks, pristine beaches, and golf courses, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you're hiking through lush landscapes or soaking up the sun on the beach, Magnetic Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty just waiting to be discovered.
  • Nelly Bay: A mere 1.6km from Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay is a charming suburb that captures the essence of coastal living. Visitors flock here throughout the year, with peak numbers in April, July, and September. Nelly Bay is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities and stunning scenery, featuring beautiful beaches and access to national parks. Engage in a round of golf or indulge in local body treatments for some well-deserved pampering. With its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to nature, Nelly Bay is an ideal spot for a tranquil escape.

Things to do in and around Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a holiday getaway. Enjoy activities like golf at the local course, unwind at the beach club, and explore nearby attractions. Don't miss out on the vibrant atmosphere during music weekends, where you can soak in the local culture while having a great time with family and friends.

Shopping

In Picnic Bay, explore the Craft Market, just 3.2km away, offering a vibrant local atmosphere. Horseshoe Bay Markets, only 4.8km away, also features delightful local goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Willows Shopping Centre, 13.2km away, for a wider variety of shopping and entertainment.

Recreation

Enjoy a round at Magnetic Island Golf Course, surrounded by lush landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding. For a refreshing dip, visit Strand Rockpool, ideal for families and outdoor fun while soaking up the sun and sea breezes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Reid Park Street Circuit, located 11.3km from Picnic Bay, where adrenaline meets adventure. For family fun, splash around at Strand Waterpark, 9.7km away. Alternatively, enjoy outdoor sports at Townsville Barra Fishing & Cable Ski Park, situated 24.1km from Picnic Bay.

Nightlife

In Picnic Bay, the nightlife is laid-back yet vibrant, with venues like the Picnic Bay Hotel offering live music and cold drinks. The beachfront atmosphere creates a relaxing vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Enjoy the local flavours and friendly company as you soak in the island's charm.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Picnic Bay

For a budget-friendly trip to Picnic Bay, plan your visit between January to February or November when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays offer the best rates, while Saturdays are typically the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find affordable lodging and consider package deals to save on flights and activities. Look for Eco-certified hotels for sustainable options. Take advantage of free local attractions and use public transport to explore the area economically. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals and special offers to maximise your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Picnic Bay are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Picnic Bay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Picnic Bay is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you tailor your travel experience by choosing your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can easily sort your results from the lowest to the highest prices, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your Picnic Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay in Queensland offers a fantastic outdoor escape with its stunning sandy beaches and picturesque bay, perfect for a relaxing holiday. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from beach sports to exploring nearby national parks and reserves. Just a stone's throw from Picnic Bay Beach, you can unwind on the deck and soak in the scenery, making it an ideal spot for adventure and natural beauty seekers alike.

  • Magnetic Island National Park: Experience the thrill of adventure amidst stunning scenery in this national park located 4.8km from Picnic Bay. With its diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and breathtaking views, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Horseshoe Bay Beach: Relax at this picturesque beach, located 6.4km from Picnic Bay, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. The beach vibes here are perfect for swimming, picnicking, and soaking up the tropical atmosphere.
  • Nelly Bay Habitat Reserve: Just 1.6km from Picnic Bay, this reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe native flora and fauna. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Best time to go to Picnic Bay

The best time to visit Picnic Bay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Picnic Bay falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Picnic Bay falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February80.2°F (26.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March78.8°F (26.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
April75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May71.1°F (21.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June67.8°F (19.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October75.4°F (24.1°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Picnic Bay

For your visit to Picnic Bay, Queensland, the main airport options are Townsville Airport (TSV) and Palm Island Airport (PMK). Townsville Airport is approximately 11.3km from Picnic Bay, with several nearby accommodation choices like the 5-star Rambutan Resort and the 4.5-star Grand Hotel and Apartments, both located 4.8km away from the airport. The Ville Resort - Casino, another 4.5-star option, is situated 6.4km from the airport. Alternatively, Palm Island Airport is about 36.4km away, with the luxurious 5-star Orpheus Island Lodge located 16.1km from the airport. Transport services are readily available to connect you from these hotels to the respective airports.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Picnic Bay?
Located 6.2 mi (10 km) from the heart of Picnic Bay, Madison Plaza Townsville is a top choice for your stay, based on our traveller data. Two other options for your stay in the area are The Ville Resort - Casino and Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Picnic Bay.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Picnic Bay has to offer?
Beached on Magnetic, Picnic Bay: This highly rated holiday home rental in Picnic Bay is located on the beach, and has a balcony, a garden and a BBQ to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a dishwasher, a fridge and a stovetop. Another good choice for your trip to Picnic Bay is ISLAND ADVENTURE HOLIDAY HOUSE. See all vacation rentals in Picnic Bay.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Picnic Bay, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of check in. If your reservation is non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Picnic Bay.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Picnic Bay?
The Ville Resort - Casino: Features 3 restaurants, a pool and a full-service spa. Beached on Magnetic, Picnic Bay and Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville are two additional hotels with an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Picnic Bay.
What is the best spa hotel in Picnic Bay?
Tropical Palms is a highly recommended spa hotel with an outdoor pool. Enjoy a massage at the on-site spa. See all spa hotels in Picnic Bay.
What's it like staying in Picnic Bay?
Visitors to Picnic Bay will definitely enjoy the beaches. Tourists can also enjoy the city's golf courses and gardens. In Picnic Bay, there are 39 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Picnic Bay.
What should I do while I'm visiting Picnic Bay?
The picturesque setting of Magnetic Island National Park and Picnic Bay Beach exemplify the area's natural beauty. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Magnetic Island Golf Course and Bolger Bay Nature Refuge. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Picnic Bay guide.
What's the seasonal weather like in Picnic Bay?
The hottest months are usually December and January, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are July and August, with an average of 20°C. The rainiest months in Picnic Bay are January, February, March and December, with each month seeing an average of 233 mm of rainfall.

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