Magnetic ISLAND’S SNORKEL TRAILS
SNORKEL TRAILS MAGNETIC ISLAND
Self-Guided SNORKELLING TRAILS
Don’t want to hire a snorkel guide, but you still want some guidance? The island’s Self Guided Snorkel Trails were installed just for you!
Magnetic Island is nestled within the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, offering a snorkeler's paradise right at your doorstep. Fringing reef surrounds most of the island, meaning you’re likely to spot marine life wherever you go.
But to make your snorkelling adventure even easier, we’ve set up two designated snorkel trails with the permission of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. These trails are marked with bright yellow floats, which make navigating a breeze—and give you a handy rest spot if you need it. Swim out to them, look down and discover the beauty below. Easy, right?
Let the yellow floats be your guide!
Nelly Bay SNORKEL TRAIL
Where Southern end of Nelly Bay beach. From Nomads Backpackers, look for the Green snorkel card return box near the bus stop, then follow the path leading to the beach. The yellow floats are just 100m off shore.
Entry Walk straight into the water from the beach.
Features Close to shore, this trail’s all about beautiful coral and giant clams.
Who’s it for Perfect for beginners.
Hazards No lifeguard, marine stingers, boat traffic.
Geoffrey Bay SNORKEL TRAIL
Where Northern end of Geoffrey Bay beach, near Bremner Point. Find the Green snorkel card return box at Pleasure Divers on the foreshore. The yellow floats are about 500m out.
Entry
Option 1: Walk in off the beach (longer but safest).
Option 2: Walk around to the old boat ramp and enter via the rocks (watch out for slippery surfaces and oyster shells).
Features Dive down and check out the Moltke wreck.
Who’s it for Best for snorkelers with a bit more experience.
Hazards Marine stingers, no lifeguard, strong currents, boat traffic.
Snorkel TRAIL SWIM CARDS
Want to level up your snorkelling game? Grab a snorkel trail swim card from Pleasure Divers for just $7. These waterproof cards wrap around your wrist and give you cool facts about the marine life and coral formations you’ll see on the trail. Whilst you don’t need to have one to be able to snorkel on the trails, it’s a perfect way to learn more as you explore!
Safety TIPS
Always snorkel with a buddy
Don’t go out in strong winds, rough seas, or poor visibility
Avoid extreme tidal changes that can cause strong currents
Don’t snorkel at low tide (when it’s under 0.8m)
Wear a stinger suit from November to May
Stay within your limits—if you’re tired, return to shore or take a break at the yellow floats
Don’t stand on or touch the reef and watch your fins!
Reef ETIQUETTE
Don’t stand on the coral
Don’t handle coral
Be mindful of your fins—don’t kick coral
Don’t collect or remove anything from the reef
