Title: Visit Picnic Bay: Best of Picnic Bay Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide - Expedia.ca

[Hotels in Picnic Bay](https://expedia.ca/Picnic-Bay-Hotels.d6351564.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Vacation Rentals in Picnic Bay](https://expedia.ca/Picnic-Bay-Vacation-Rentals.d6351564.Travel-Guide-VacationRentals)[Things to do in Picnic Bay](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-Picnic-Bay.d6351564.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Picnic Bay Car Rentals](https://expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Picnic-Bay.d6351564.Car-Rental-Guide)[Picnic Bay Vacation Packages](https://expedia.ca/Picnic-Bay.d6351564.Destination-Travel-Guides)

# Picnic Bay

## Travel Guide

![Picnic Bay which includes boating, a small town or village and tranquil scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6351564/608f3c9a-5d19-4255-9f8e-320f5334de9b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Picnic Bay which includes boating, a small town or village and tranquil scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6351564/608f3c9a-5d19-4255-9f8e-320f5334de9b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Picnic Bay which includes general coastal views and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6351564/185c69fc-766e-49ab-8e71-6794e6656fed.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Picnic Bay featuring general coastal views and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6351564/11d0f382-bd73-4107-8743-c907d1e5ff1b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Picnic Bay showing swimming, general coastal views and rocky coastline](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6351564/c909f197-9501-4147-8b3e-50a691077858.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

## Visit Picnic Bay

Things to do

#### See koalas in the wild, laze on the beach, snorkel around a coral reef or hike along a rugged trail in one of Magnetic Island’s most idyllic bays.

Picnic Bay forms Magnetic Island’s southern tip. Its name refers to the bay itself and the picturesque little settlement nestled on its shores. With a population of just over 350, it is only a small place, but there is a lot to do, with a beach, coral reef, golf course and shipwrecks to explore.

Head down to the beach first to take in the bay’s stunning vistas as you stroll over the golden sands. Jump in for a swim to cool off, then take a walk out along the jetty. Since nearby Nelly Bay got its ferry terminal, the jetty is no longer used by mainland ferries and is now the domain of local fishermen and walkers.

While fishing is allowed, most visitors prefer to see the fish swimming among the coral of the island’s fringing reef. Snorkel through this hidden world of wonder and watch for turtles, which occasionally pass by.

Take a hike along the coast or into the hills to experience the abundant nature of Magnetic Island. With over half of the island covered in national park, it is a haven for Australia’s iconic wildlife, such as koalas and rock wallabies.

Climb up to Hawkings Point Lookout to take in the panoramic views of the ocean and mainland. A short walk farther on takes you to Rocky Bay, another popular beach for swimming and snorkeling.

Head the opposite way along the coast from Picnic Bay to Cockle Bay to see the wreck of the SS City of Adelaide. The doomed ship ran aground in 1916 and, at low tide, offers a glimpse of the plants and birds that have made it their home.

Stay a night or two in Picnic Bay to sample the finer things in life, whether you hit the golf course at the Magnetic Island Country Club or dine at the bay’s restaurants. Of course, you can’t leave before you have enjoyed a picnic beneath a shady tree with views over the bay. Only then can you say you’ve seen Picnic Bay.

![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh)

## 

The Annual Vacation Sale 

Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. 

[Book now](https://expedia.ca/deals?rfrr=DX_SPRING_PROMO_6351564)

- Picnic Bay Hotel Deals
- Vacation Rentals in Picnic Bay

![The Ville Resort - Casino](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/20000/19200/19136/5f992005_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

The Ville Resort - Casino

Sir Leslie Thiess Drive Townsville QLD

CA $197

CA $217 total

Feb 26 - Feb 27

includes taxes & fees

Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Townsville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...

8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)

Great accommodation

Reviewed on Feb 5, 2026

[](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=26%2F02%2F2026&endDate=27%2F02%2F2026&selected=19136&PinnedHotelID=19136&HadPinnedHotel=true&regionId=6351564)

![Aquarius on the Beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3960000/3952900/3952853/9e23186c_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Aquarius on the Beach

75 The Strand North Ward QLD

CA $127

CA $140 total

Mar 15 - Mar 16

includes taxes & fees

Book a stay at this beach hotel in Townsville. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale, and a business center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...

8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)

Great room, great amenities, great view. Very satisfied. Very friendly staff. Parking is tight, but usually found a spot, if not, can park easily in the street out front. Plenty of food around and supermarket very close. All round great place to stay.

Reviewed on Feb 14, 2026

[](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=15%2F03%2F2026&endDate=16%2F03%2F2026&selected=3952853&PinnedHotelID=3952853&HadPinnedHotel=true&regionId=6351564)

![Ardo](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/100000000/99230000/99224400/99224381/e240d86b_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Ardo

67 SIR LESLIE THIESS DRIVE Townsville QLD

CA $226

CA $251 total

Feb 23 - Feb 24

includes taxes & fees

Stay at this hotel in Townsville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 3 restaurants. Popular attractions Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre and Magnetic ...

9.4/10 Exceptional! (311 reviews)

Easy checkin, Great location and facility. Staff were fantastic

Reviewed on Jan 22, 2026

[](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=23%2F02%2F2026&endDate=24%2F02%2F2026&selected=99224381&PinnedHotelID=99224381&HadPinnedHotel=true&regionId=6351564)

[See all 693 properties in Picnic Bay](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=16%2F02%2F2026&endDate=17%2F02%2F2026&regionId=6351564)

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.

![Reflections Topaz Villa 3](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/32000000/31970000/31963200/31963117/cd2b4075_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Reflections Topaz Villa 3

 Picnic Bay QLD

Book a stay at this beach villa in Picnic Bay. Enjoy a beach locale, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Picnic Bay Beach and Rocky Bay are ...

Restful bliss

A great place for couples. Excellent views, rooms, pool and everything you needed for a restful peaceful holiday.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2023

[](https://expedia.ca/Picnic-Bay-Hotels-Reflections-Amber-Villa-3.h31963117.Hotel-Information)

![Headland House, Nobby Headland](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/38000000/37970000/37965800/37965722/3658b793_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Headland House, Nobby Headland

 Picnic Bay QLD

Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Picnic Bay. Enjoy a beach locale, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Picnic Bay Beach and Magnetic ...

Magical Maggie

Loved our stay on Magnetic Island in Headland House. Perfect house for our family of 10 in the most magical of locations. Was a little disappointed in the cleanliness of the kitchen and some supplies/items that are usually standard were in short supply. But would definitely stay again if given the ...

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2024

[](https://expedia.ca/Townsville-Hotels-Headland-House-Picnic-Bay.h37965722.Hotel-Information)

![Picnic Bay Chalet Unit 2 - Charming island escape just 150m from Picnic Bay beachfront](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/84000000/83210000/83202800/83202749/70272c0e_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Picnic Bay Chalet Unit 2 - Charming island escape just 150m from Picnic Bay beachfront

 Picnic Bay QLD

Stay at this chalet in Picnic Bay. Enjoy a garden, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Picnic Bay Beach and Magnetic Island Golf Course are located ...

9.2/10 Wonderful! (7 reviews)

Yes we enjoyed our stay

Reviewed on Nov 26, 2025

[](https://expedia.ca/Picnic-Bay-Hotels-Picnic-Bay-Chalet-Unit-2-Charming-Island-Escape-Just-150m-From-Picnic-Bay-Beachfront.h83202749.Hotel-Information)

[See all properties in Picnic Bay](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&regionId=6351564&sort=VACATION_RENTAL)

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.

## Check Picnic Bay hotel availability

[Tonight

](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6351564&startDate=2026-02-15&endDate=2026-02-16)[Feb 15 - Feb 16](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6351564&startDate=2026-02-15&endDate=2026-02-16)

[Tomorrow night

](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6351564&startDate=2026-02-16&endDate=2026-02-17)[Feb 16 - Feb 17](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6351564&startDate=2026-02-16&endDate=2026-02-17)

[Next weekend

](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6351564&startDate=20%2F02%2F2026&endDate=22%2F02%2F2026)[Feb 20 - Feb 22](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6351564&startDate=20%2F02%2F2026&endDate=22%2F02%2F2026)

### Popular places to visit

#### Magnetic Island Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Picnic Bay at Magnetic Island Golf Course. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its charming cafes. 

[](https://expedia.ca/Magnetic-Island-Golf-Course-Townsville.d553248621532611194.Vacation-Attraction)

### Things to do

![SeaLink Magnetic Island Ferry return trip from Townsville](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/476809/18e7987c-06a6-4fb5-bd1f-8016743da655.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### SeaLink Magnetic Island Ferry return trip from Townsville

CA $42

per adult

**98%** of travellers recommend

[](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/sealink-magnetic-island-ferry-return-trip-from-townsville.a476809.activity-details)

![Magnetic Island: Behind the Scenes Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47511506/6e9320f0-8176-4f92-a327-e9d9f195aaf3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Magnetic Island: Behind the Scenes Tour

CA $110

per adult

**100%** of travellers recommend

[](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/magnetic-island-behind-the-scenes-tour.a47511506.activity-details)

![Townsville City Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49471354/c7bd956c-636c-4d0f-87ea-67ee9e09be77.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Townsville City Tour

CA $72

per adult

[](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/townsville-city-tour.a49471354.activity-details)

![Great insta moments at sunset](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/674158/4878ef6a-83db-4949-a0ce-89807de69cae.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Magnetic Island Sip and Sail Sunset Cruise

CA $133

per adult

[](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/magnetic-island-sip-and-sail-sunset-cruise.a674158.activity-details)

![West Coast 4WD Eco Bus Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47101866/6a7b2021-43af-42dd-b746-1e5a603a5037.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Magnetic Island: West Coast Eco Adventure

CA $120

per adult

[](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/magnetic-island-west-coast-eco-adventure.a47101866.activity-details)

![Jetski Hire Magnetic Island customers](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47087084/1bf6914e-5d3a-4f1d-92ea-df78938d18da.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Magnetic Island 30-Minute Jet Ski Hire – 1 to 4 People

CA $134

per traveller

[](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/magnetic-island-30-minute-jet-ski-hire-1-to-4-people.a47087084.activity-details)

[See all activities in Picnic Bay](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-Picnic-Bay.d6351564.Travel-Guide-Activities)

## Cities near Picnic Bay

![Nelly Bay which includes a sandy beach and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6351561/50970d20-bf29-4d98-b89f-d89a6d9aee55.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Nelly Bay

- Cities near Picnic Bay
- Places of interest

[Nelly Bay](https://expedia.ca/Nelly-Bay.dx6351561)

- [Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal ](https://expedia.ca/Magnetic-Island-Ferry-Terminal-Townsville.d6217205.Vacation-Attraction)
- [Horseshoe Bay Beach ](https://expedia.ca/Horseshoe-Bay-Beach-Queensland.d6087013.Vacation-Attraction)

![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg)

## Go further with the Expedia app

Save on select hotels and earn double points when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go.

Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app