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Cairns to Magnetic Island from $36: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Magnetic Island, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Magnetic Island: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$36 by trainBest price
272 kmDistance
4h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Magnetic Island with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$52-91
Recommended
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Drive
Average Duration
7h  33m
Estimated price
$36-841
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 272 km
Duration: 4h 36m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$43-54
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
4h  36m
Estimated price
$55-75
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Traveling From Cairns to Magnetic Island

The journey from Cairns to Magnetic Island offers a striking contrast, with Cairns bustling with city life and vibrant markets, while Magnetic Island invites you to unwind amid stunning beaches and lush landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charms for visitors.

Nelly Bay
• Gateway to ferry connections and transport options.
• Vibrant dining and shopping along the beachfront.
Arcadia
• Home to beautiful Alma Bay, perfect for swimming.
• Offers a relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
Picnic Bay
• Known for its picturesque beach and pier views.
• Ideal for snorkeling and local seafood dining.

Best Times To Visit Magnetic Island's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience on Magnetic Island's highlights.

Fortress Hill
Early mornings offer cooler weather and fewer hikers on the trail.
Alma Bay
Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunsets and smaller crowds.
Magnetic Island National Park
Weekdays provide quieter trails and better wildlife sightings.

Magnetic Island Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Magnetic Island enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters; the best times to visit fall between April and October when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant. Understanding the weather can enhance your travel experience, as it influences outdoor activities, beach days, and wildlife sightings.

Dining in Magnetic Island: A Taste of the Tropics

Head to the renowned Fortescue Bay Cafe, where fresh seafood and local ingredients shine in dishes like the salt and pepper calamari, offering a casual dining atmosphere that feels reminiscent of a charming beachside retreat. This experience contrasts with the more bustling, cosmopolitan dining options in Cairns, giving you a chance to savor flavors in a relaxed and scenic setting.

Cairns - Magnetic Island operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Magnetic Island, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Townsville

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
AU$40-527
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Townsville

Average Duration
5h 55m
Estimated price
AU$911-529
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Cairns Central Station to Townsville

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$36-841
Ferry
Contact phone
+61 7 4726 0800
Website
https://sealinkqld.com.au/

Ferry from Breakwater Ferry Terminal to Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
AU$9-0

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Magnetic Island.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cairns and Magnetic Island is 272 km. The typical travel time to reach Magnetic Island from Cairns by taking a bus and then a ferry is 6 hours and 17 minutes.
The most cost-effective option to travel from Cairns to Magnetic Island is by taking a bus and ferry. This option is cheaper, costing around $40-$55, but it takes a longer time, around 6 hours and 42 minutes. However, for a quicker option, driving and taking a ferry is the best choice. Although it is slightly more expensive, costing around $55-$75, it takes only 4 hours and 36 minutes to reach Magnetic Island.
The most convenient way to travel from Cairns to Magnetic Island without a car is by taking a bus and ferry. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 17 minutes and the cost ranges from $55 to $120.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Magnetic Island. With over 520 hotels available, visitors can choose from a range of budgets and preferences. Prices start at $58 per night, ensuring there is something for everyone's budget.

Trips to Townsville