Magnetic Island (Australia)

Magnetic island – In front of Townsville, with fantastic beaches.  2/3 of the Island is considered National Park with many colonies of Koalas and Kangaroos to be seen in their natural habitat.

Getting to Magnetic Island is very easy and fast. The island is right in front of Townsville and by fast boat it only takes 20 minutes. You can also take your car to the island on a Barge that leaves from a different station to the ferry. Magnetic Island received its name when Captain Cook noted a magnetic change on his ship's compass. He believed the island had some kind of mineral that was altering his direction. Later, studies proved that the Island has no magnetic powers except for its beauty. Sorry, I said it wrong, in reality the island is too beautiful to be described. It causes a magnetism in your eyes because you can't stop contemplating its panoramic views. The contrasting hills, vegetation and blue seas, are strong enough to alter any compass.  

. 2/3 of the island is National Park, and you will definitely see koalas in trees by late afternoon. Not only koalas but also thousands of colorful lorikeets, possums, iguanas and many other native animals. The feeling on the Island is that of an endless holiday, and the beaches are superb, and very inviting. During your time on the island, you will have 99% of your trips travelling by foot. There is a bus that does a short circuit of 10 to 12 km, or you can hire a Moke (like a small jeep) or a Scooter. Finding places to stay is not a problem either. There are many Backpacker Hostels as well as hotels, rooms, houses and everything else. Geoff's Place is a cross between a Backpacker, camping, Caravan Park and Cabins. It has a community kitchen and also a bar that serves meals. Some nights of the week it has a party, with music and entertainment. Perfectly cold beer is also served to anyone who wishes to kill the thirst, after a day on trails.