Townsville & Magnetic Island
Queensland, Australia
5.0
Overview
Townsville is North Queensland's largest city and the jumping-off point for Magnetic Island -- a laid-back tropical island that is one of the east coast's best-kept secrets. While Townsville itself is a functional city with a good food scene and The Strand waterfront, Magnetic Island (Maggie) is where backpackers head: a 20-minute ferry ride delivers you to 23 bays and beaches, wild koalas, bushwalking trails, and a famously chilled island pace. It is one of the more affordable stops on the coast.
Daily Budget
~$50
Best Months
AprMayJunJulAugSepOctNov
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (USD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | $20 | |
| Food | $13 | |
| Transport | $8 | |
| Activities | $8 | |
| Total | ~$50 |
Hostels
6 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Top Hostels
View all 6 hostels
Things to Do
View all 8 activitiesJoin the full moon party at Base Backpackers
culture
Rent a Mokeand drive around the island, stopping at beaches
water sports
Sea kayak around Magnetic Island
water sports
Snorkel at Geoffrey Bay, Arthur Bay, or Florence Bay on Magnetic Island
water sports
Swim at Alma Bay
water sports
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Townsville & Magnetic Island?
- Budget around $50 USD per day in Townsville & Magnetic Island, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Townsville & Magnetic Island?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Townsville & Magnetic Island are Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Townsville & Magnetic Island?
- Top-rated hostels in Townsville & Magnetic Island include Civic Guest House, The Rambutan, Arcadia Beach Guest House. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from $15 USD per night.
- What are the top things to do in Townsville & Magnetic Island?
- Must-do activities in Townsville & Magnetic Island include Join the full moon party at Base Backpackers, Rent a Mokeand drive around the island, stopping at beaches, Sea kayak around Magnetic Island. There are 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.