Townsville & Magnetic Island
Queensland, Australia
Daily Budget
~A$66
~US$50 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Dry Season / Winter
Vibe
Backpacker favourite
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.
Editor's Pick
Townsville & Magnetic Island stands out for: Magnetic Island is a relaxed tropical island just 20 minutes by ferry — feels remote but is easy to reach; Wild koalas are commonly spotted along the Forts Walk (one of the best places in Australia to see them in the wild); 23 bays and beaches with clear water, coral reefs, and minimal crowds.
Things to Do
View all 12 activitiesTop Hostels
View all 6 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (AUD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | A$26 | $20 |
| Food | A$17 | $13 |
| Transport | A$10 | $8 |
| Activities | A$10 | $8 |
| Total | ~A$66 | ~$50 |
Hostels
6 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
12 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Townsville & Magnetic Island?
- Budget around A$66 AUD (~US$50) 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 A$20 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 12 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
