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Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

2.0 star property
Magnetic Island's tropical garden paradise offers the perfect blend of daytime relaxation and nighttime energy, all surrounded by the beauty of crystal-clear waters

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Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel offers a lively getaway near Horseshoe Bay Beach. Relax in the garden by day, enjoy the nightclub after sunset. The restaurant serves three meals daily, and the outdoor pool has sun loungers. Free WiFi, bike, and car rentals available for exploring.

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Restaurant
  • Air-conditioning
  • Breakfast available

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 8 of 8 rooms

View all photos for Dormitory Room - 6 Beds

Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Dormitory Room - 6 Beds

Highlights

Balcony
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Daily housekeeping
  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Single Bed

Private - Double - Ocean View - Ensuite

  • Sleeps 2

Bed in 6-Bed Shared Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

View all photos for Dormitory Room - 8 Beds

Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Dormitory Room - 8 Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Balcony
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Daily housekeeping
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Single Bed

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Women only - 6 Beds

Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory, Women only - 6 Beds

Highlights

Balcony
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Daily housekeeping
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Single Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Private Bathroom, Ocean View

Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Deluxe Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Private Bathroom, Ocean View

Highlights

Balcony
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Private bathroom
Daily housekeeping
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Bed in 8-Bed Shared Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Bed in 6-Bed Female Shared Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1
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About the area

Located in Nelly Bay, Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel is on the beach. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Museum of Tropical Queensland, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Radical Bay and Horseshoe Bay Beach. Maritime Museum of Townsville and ReefHQ are also worth visiting. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Nelly Bay travel guide
View more Hostels in Nelly Bay
Map
1 Nelly Bay Road, Nelly Bay, QLD, 4819

What's nearby

  • Magnetic Island National Park featuring rocky coastline, general coastal views and a bay or harbour
    Magnetic Island National Park
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Nelly Bay Beach
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Nelly Bay Habitat Reserve
    8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Massage on Magnetic
    20 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Magnetic Island Golf Course
    1 min drive - 1.2 km

Getting around

  • Townsville Station
    37 min drive
  • Townsville, QLD (TSV)
    48 min drive

Restaurants

  • Tiny Palm Coffee
    15 min walk
  • Terasu
    37 min drive
  • Granite
    2 min drive
  • Ric's Woodfire Pizza
    14 min walk
  • Spin Cafe
    37 min drive

About this property

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

Hostel by the sea
Located close to Horseshoe Bay Beach and Radical Bay, Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel provides a nightclub, a garden and laundry facilities. Adventurous travellers may like the cycling at this hostel. The on-site restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, with a speed of 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices), and guests can find other amenities, such as car hire on-site and a bar.
You'll also enjoy the following perks during your stay:
  • An outdoor pool, along with sunloungers
  • Free self-parking
  • Cooked-to-order breakfast (surcharge), bike hire and motorhome/coach/lorry parking
  • A billiards/pool table, motorised watercraft on-site and luggage storage
Room features
All guest rooms at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel include comforts, such as air conditioning, in addition to
Other conveniences in all rooms include:
  • Balconies, ceiling fans and daily housekeeping

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  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, 1,005 reviews
The price is HK$722
HK$795 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site
  • RV/bus/lorry parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking

Food and drink

  • Daily cooked-to-order breakfast available 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee: AUD 12 to 30 per person
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Nightclub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Personal motorised watercraft

Conveniences

  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On the bay
  • On the beach
  • Pool loungers

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Front entrance ramp
  • No lift
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 1 floor
  • 30 buildings
  • Built in 2004
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Towels provided

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you arrive at the property after hours, you'll need to check in at an alternative location: [Please see our Bar staff for late check-in]
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children younger than 18 are not allowed at this adults-only property; all guests 18 and older are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
Cots (infant beds) are not available

Payment types at the property

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Deposit: AUD 20 per stay

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

  • Fee for cooked-to-order breakfast: approximately AUD 12 to 30 per person

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
This property's policy is to refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, including stag and hen parties
Pool access available from 7 AM to 7 PM
Guests under 18 years old are not permitted at this adults-only property
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms

Property is also known as

Base Magnetic Island Hostel
Base Hostel
Base Magnetic Island
Base Magnetic Island Hostel Nelly Bay
Base Magnetic Island Nelly Bay
Base Magnetic Island Nelly
Base Magnetic Island Hostel
Nomads Magnetic Hostel Nelly
Nomads Magentic Island Hostel
Nomads Magnetic Island Hostel
Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel Nelly Bay
Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation

Frequently asked questions

Does Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool access is from 7 AM to 7 PM.

Is Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel?

Self-parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: midnight. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel located?

This Nelly Bay hostel is on the beach, 5.6 mi (9.1 km) from Radical Bay, and within 12 mi (20 km) of Horseshoe Bay Beach and Museum of Tropical Queensland. Queens Gardens and Castle Hill are also within 12 mi (20 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on selected room rates because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel Reviews

8.2

Very good

7.0

Cleanliness

8.2

Location

8.2

Staff & service

7.2

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 65 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 27 out of 65 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 65 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 65 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 65 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I enjoyed my stay, staff were super helpful with all the information. Breakfast was amazing.

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Such a great place, we got to see two wales when we were checking in! Loved the food.

10/10 Excellent

Patrick

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Love the view from the huts in the morning
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Martha

Liked: Staff & service
The view from the little house is amazing. Cannot beat that. Nevertheless, the food at the bar was very average. The bed was comfortable but I feel there more cleaning and maintenance is needed.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved my stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Laurie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Bathroom and wifi not great but beautiful spot
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brodie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent venue with great views and beach access
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023

4/10 Poor

Barry

Too much like a Disco, than a peaceful Hostel
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

2/10 Terrible

Taris

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Cheap as if you don’t get Covid or hepatitis you done well
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023

4/10 Poor

Paige

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Disappointed and Dirty

I recently stayed at Nomads on Magnetic Island, and unfortunately, my experience was far from pleasant. Upon arrival, I was struck by the unkempt state of the hostel. The dormitory I was assigned to was warm and uncomfortable, dispite the old loud AC unit and the bedding provided looked worn. The bunk beds were loud and unsteady, which made it hard to relax. The bathrooms were another issue; they were poorly maintained. The girls showers were out of service. There was toliet paper and paper towel left all over the floor. The atmosphere, which could have been vibrant and welcoming, was dampened by the lack of upkeep and the overall disorganization. I had high hopes for my stay, given the beautiful location, but the neglected conditions of Nomads overshadowed the charm of Magnetic Island. I would not recommend this hostel unless significant improvements are made.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joanna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Sehr cooles Hostel. Einziger Kritikpunkt war, dass die Toiletten weit weg war und man in der Nacht raus musste.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

dahabo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Overall enjoyed my stay, did not enjoy the loud music till midnight on a weekday.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Staff & service

Poor mans Maldives

A little hut over the water - perfect spot. Nothing flash, very private and the view over the water with the waves crashing on the rocks made this place perfect. The room is basic but tidy. No fridge or anything like that so be sure to utilise the communal kitchen. Not having a bathroom was easier then expected and the communal block was always clean. Didn’t spend anytime at the restaurant or bar so can’t comment on these. Great base to hire yourself a scooter and zoom around the island. 5 min ride into the main town. Breakfast at a shack was a 5 min walk. First time staying at a backpackers and I was pleasantly surprised. Would def stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

8/10 Good

Gemma

Liked: Staff & service

Base Review

The location of the hostel is right on the beach and easy to get to from the harbour. We stayed in a double room which was fine for a couple of nights. The evening entertainment is good and there is something on every night. Room was fine and what we expected, could have been a little cleaner but was okay for the most part.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is a great hostel, defianltey a party hostel but if you get a room furthest from the bar no issues on sleep. Staff are fabulous, friendly, helpful and full of energy.
Stayed 1 night in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Riku

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Cleanliness

Amazing view

Our private room on the beach was so nice. Breakfast was also delicious. The room wasn't so clean and bed was very very hard!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

8/10 Good

Charlotte

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Stunning view

Great hostel and amazing view, just bear in mind it is a young atmosphere and known for its sensational parties.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Amazing location and view

The location of this backpackers was the best of any I've ever stayed in! Backed up right along the beach.

4/10 Poor

Verified traveller

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

überteuert und dreckig

Das Hostel hat eine echt schöne Lage am Strand aber dreckigen Zimmern und Bädern sowie überteuerte Preise machen den Aufenthalt nicht wirklich zu einem Genuss. An Schlaf ist vor Mitternacht nicht zu denken da unnötigerweise nicht nur der Barbereich massiv beschallt wird sondern 2 Boxen auch Richtung der Bungalows ausgerichtet sind und diese mit Lärm versorgen. Betten quietschen extrem!

2/10 Terrible

Thomas, Gothenburg

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Had a few bad experiences with the room, WiFi and kitchen.

6/10 Okay

Verified traveller

Disliked: Staff & service, room comfort
It was a cheap mattress that felt a bit wirey. The check-in staff seemed to be unprofessional and inexperienced.

8/10 Good

stephanie, Monaco

Liked: Property conditions & facilities

Correcte

Mon séjour à été mitigé concernant l'auberge les chambre sont minuscule 6 lit le ménage n'est pas fait du tout sauf quand les chambre sont vide les salle de bain sont bien et propre par contre la cuisine aussi le point noir c'est le wifi 4 le normal et 6 le premium par jour sauf que le premium et passable impossible de regarder une vidéo sans qu'elle beug et le normal n'en parlons même pa 10 minute pour ouvrir une page c'est extrêmement cher et ça ne marche pas vraiment sinon l'auberge et bien située en bord de plage il y a dès soirée c'est sympa je le recommande malgré tout mais pour 1 ou 2 jours suffisant

8/10 Good

Darvid, Melbourne

Liked: Staff & service

What a great buzz place

Great atmosphere, especially for backpackers in early 20's. Found after 40 years gap, backpacker hostels are still the same lively places. Everyone is there to enjoy themselves and they do, especially with well orchestrated night activities. Can walk from Nelly Bay to hostel in less than 30 minutes. Buses run hourly ish from Base into town.

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Property conditions & facilities

Hostel on the beach

The hostel dorms are in cute triangular shaped beach huts and most have great views from them. They are however very cramped inside especially on the top bunks as the ceiling inclines. There are some old rusty lockers under the beds but you need your own lock. The wifi is basically terrible most of the time even though I paid $6 for the premium wifi for 24hrs! Lively hostel with a good atmosphere.

6/10 Okay

Verified traveller

Disliked: Room comfort

Fantastic position over the ocean

Wonderful position perched on the rocks with the waves crashing beneath. great party atmosphere. Unfortunately a solid 30mins walk to any amenities and the room was poorly maintained with broken fan and window boarded with timber that wouldn't open. No tv or chairs in room. Would be a sauna if no sea breeze.