Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Radical Bay & the Forts
Townsville was a supply base for the Pacific during WWII, and the forts were designed to
protect the town from naval attack. If you're going to do just one walk, then the
forts walk
(2.8km, 1½ hours return) is a must. It starts near the Radical Bay turn-off, passing lots of
ex-military sites, gun emplacements and false 'rocks'. At the top of the walk is the obser-
vation tower and command post, which have spectacular coastal views, and you'll almost
certainly spot
koalas
lazing about in the treetops. Return the same way or continue along
the connecting paths, which deposit you at Horseshoe Bay (you can catch the bus back).
Nearby
Balding Bay
is Maggie's unofficial nudie beach.
Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay, on the north coast, is the best of Maggie's accessible beaches. You'll find
water-sports gear for hire, a stinger net, a row of cafes and a fantastic pub.
Bungalow Bay Koala Village has a
wildlife park
(
www.bungalowbay.com.au
;
adult/child $19/12;
2hr tours 10am, noon & 2.30pm)
, where you can cuddle crocs and koalas.
Pick up local arts and crafts at Horseshoe Bay's
market
(
9am-2pm second and last Sun of
month)
, which sets up along the beachfront.
Tours
Pleasure Divers
( 07-4778 5788;
www.pleasuredivers.com.au
;
10 Marine Pde, Arcadia; open-water course per person $349)
Three-day PADI open-water courses, as well as advanced courses and
Yongala
wreck
dives.
DIVING
Tropicana Tours
( 07-4758 1800;
www.tropicanatours.com.au
; full day adult/child $198/99)
If you're time-poor, this full-
day tour with guides takes in the island's best spots in its stretch 4WD. Price includes
close encounters with wildlife, lunch at a local cafe and a sunset cocktail. Shorter tours are
also available.
DRIVING TOUR
Horseshoe Bay Ranch
HORSE RIDING
