Townsville and Magnetic Island

Last year we visited Townsville, and, while we enjoyed the Reef HQ and museum, we didn't enjoy Townsville and hadn't planned to return. However I really wanted to go to Magnetic Island, so we had to stay there. This time we chose a caravan park at Rowes beach, and it was such a good decision.

We are now firm believers that the park you stay in has a huge influence on how you feel about a place.  We explored the Rockpool, had a lovely lunch and have decided Townsville is much nicer than we had previously thought.

Our day trip to Magnetic Island was brilliant!

The ferry over is only 25 minutes, and we bought an all day bus pass so we could check out several of the beaches. There are four small towns on the island, and a large primary school (students catch the ferry to highschool). Sadly, while there is a car ferry, there is no caravan park.

We spent most of our day at Alma bay,  as we stopped there on our way up to Horseshoe Bay, and then returned there in the afternoon. Such a glorious place, sheltered by the massive rocks on either side.

Horseshoe Bay is also gorgeous.

Back at Alma Bay, we swam and saw lots of fish. There are snorkle trails on the island, but we had decided not to bring all our gear because of the logistics of carting it on and off buses all day. Next time!!! I would love to stay on the island for a few days.