Alma Bay is the most beloved and popular bay on Magnetic Island, home to the island's Surf Life Saving Club and patrolled year-round. The right headland (facing the water) is fringed with captivating coral gardens teeming with colourful reef fish — a protected sanctuary zone that's also a favoured habitat for rays and turtles. Depth ranges from 5–8 metres, making it ideal for beginners and experienced snorkellers alike. The beach is restricted to boats, ensuring calm, safe conditions for swimming and snorkelling directly off the shore.
Alma Bay (Magnetic Island)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 3.3 sWind Speed 7.7 knPrecipitation 0.6 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (jellyfish)
Stinger season from November to April. Wear a stinger suit to protect against potentially hazardous marine jellyfish including box jellyfish and Irukandji.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (Jan-Apr)
Stinger season continues November to April. Wear a stinger suit.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in warmer months (November to May).
Low risk: Strong tidal currents at headland
Tidal flow can accelerate around the rocky headland on the right side of the bay. Snorkellers should stay aware of changing tides, especially during new and full moon phases.
Low risk: Reduced visibility after SE winds
South-east winds stir up sediment, reducing water clarity. Best to snorkel on calm, windless days.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current
Strong tidal flow can develop as the tide recedes, particularly around the rocky headlands at the bay's ends.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The bay is used by ferries and private vessels; the snorkel trail is near the old barge ramp and ferry channel.
Low risk: Rocky entry
The shore entry involves navigating some rocks and concrete from the old barge ramp; reef shoes recommended.
Wildlife Guide
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Gallery
6 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Alma Bay is on the southeastern side of Magnetic Island in the village of Arcadia. From the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal (regular ferries from Townsville), it's a short drive or a 20-30 minute walk. The bay is well-signposted from the island's main roads. The Surf Life Saving Club is the landmark at the northern end of the beach.
Parking & facilities
Limited street parking along the esplanade near the beach. Additional parking near the Surf Life Saving Club. Spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
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Gallery ┬╖ 6 photos
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports