Florence Bay is a secluded, fringing-reef gem on Magnetic Island's western side, accessible via a scenic walking track through national park. Sheltered from prevailing winds, it offers calm, clear waters with impressive coral bommies, swim-throughs, and caves. The bay is a Marine Park Green Zone, meaning marine life is protected and abundant — expect reef fish, rays, and black-tip reef sharks. The rocky headlands and a little nook known as 'Mermaid Cove' provide immersive snorkelling in a pristine, uncrowded setting.
Florence Bay
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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
Last evaluated
© Rob and Stephanie LevyThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (jellyfish)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in Queensland waters from November to April. Wear a stinger suit.
Moderate risk: Unguarded beach
The bay is not patrolled by lifeguards. No marked swimming area. Snorkellers should be self-sufficient.
Low risk: Tidal currents around headlands
Currents can develop around the rocky headlands, especially during tidal changes. Swimmers should stay within the bay.
Low risk: Black-tip reef shark presence
Black-tip reef sharks are occasionally sighted in the bay. They are generally non-aggressive but swimmers should avoid provoking them.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Florence Bay is on Magnetic Island, reachable by ferry from Townsville. From the ferry terminal at Nelly Bay, drive or take a taxi/bus to the western side of the island. The bay is a short walk from the car park down a bush track.
Parking & facilities
Limited roadside parking near the walking track entrance; no dedicated large car park at the bay itself. Most visitors park at the pull-off area along the road and walk in on foot via the walking track through the national park.
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Gallery ┬╖ 3 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