Cockle Bay: A Tranquil Bay with a Shipwreck's Tale
Discover Cockle Bay on Magnetic Island: a serene escape where a historic shipwreck has become a haven for nature and a photographer's dream.
Cockle Bay, nestled on the southwestern corner of Magnetic Island, offers a serene escape with a unique attraction: the wreck of the SS City of Adelaide. This historic shipwreck, now an artificial island teeming with plant and bird life, lies just offshore, accessible on foot during low tide.
A brief summary to Cockle Bay
- Magnetic Island, lot, 4819, LOT/106 W Point Rd, Picnic Bay, QLD, 4805, AU
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the tide times before visiting Cockle Bay to walk to the SS City of Adelaide wreck during low tide.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to walk out to the shipwreck, as the seabed can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring your camera to capture the unique beauty of the SS City of Adelaide wreck, especially during sunset.
- Explore the mangrove forests and saltmarshes surrounding Cockle Bay to discover the diverse plant and animal life.
Getting There
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Walking
From Picnic Bay, follow the unsealed road north through the mangrove flats towards West Point. After approximately 2.5km, you will arrive at Cockle Bay. Note that vehicles are prohibited on tidal lands from West Point to Cockle Bay.
-
Public Transport
Take the 250 bus from Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal to Picnic Bay. From Picnic Bay, follow the unsealed road north through the mangrove flats towards West Point. After approximately 2.5km, you will arrive at Cockle Bay. A single bus ticket costs around $3 - $6.
Discover more about Cockle Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Pavilions
0.7 km
Discover unmatched relaxation and scenic beauty at The Pavilions in Picnic Bay, the perfect holiday home for your Magnetic Island escape.
Whats On Magnetic Island
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant events and breathtaking landscapes of Magnetic Island, where adventure and relaxation await every traveler.
Batuta Gallery
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant local art scene at Batuta Gallery in Picnic Bay, showcasing unique works by talented Queensland artists.
Beached on Magnetic
1.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Picnic Bay at Beached on Magnetic, the perfect holiday home for relaxation and exploration of Queensland's stunning coastline.
Nomads Magnetic Island (Base)
1.7 km
Discover the lively Nomads Magnetic Island, your ideal backpacker hostel for adventure and socializing on Australia's stunning Magnetic Island.
Nelly Bay Snorkel Trail
1.8 km
Discover the underwater wonders of the Nelly Bay Snorkel Trail, a top snorkeling destination in Queensland, perfect for all adventure seekers.
Pure Magnetic
2.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Magnetic Island at Pure Magnetic, your perfect beachfront self-catering accommodation for an unforgettable getaway.
Get Around Island Boat Tours and Hire Magnetic Island
2.8 km
Explore the stunning coastlines and vibrant marine life of Magnetic Island with Get Around Island Boat Tours, your gateway to adventure in Queensland, Australia.
Magnetic Island Roaming
3.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Magnetic Island on two wheels with Magnetic Island Roaming, your trusted scooter rental service.
Oskar's Rain Forest Retreat
3.1 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Oskar's Rain Forest Retreat in Nelly Bay, a perfect blend of nature and comfort for the discerning traveler.
Granite Magnetic Island
3.1 km
Experience the culinary delights of Granite Magnetic Island - a vibrant tapas and cocktail bar offering exquisite flavors in a stunning tropical setting.
Aquascene Magnetic Island
3.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Magnetic Island with Aquascene's unforgettable boat tours, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal
3.2 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and vibrant atmosphere at Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, your gateway to Magnetic Island adventures.
Magnetic Island Tours
3.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife of Magnetic Island with expertly guided tours and unforgettable adventures.
Magnetic Island ferry terminal
3.2 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Magnetic Island from the convenient ferry terminal in Nelly Bay, Queensland, your gateway to tropical exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Magnetic Island Country Club
0.5 km
Enjoy a unique golfing experience on Magnetic Island with stunning views, a licensed bar, and a friendly atmosphere.
Yallambee the Koala
0.7 km
Experience an up-close encounter with Australia's iconic koalas in the serene setting of Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island.
Picnic Bay Jetty
0.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Picnic Bay Jetty, a scenic fishing pier in Queensland, perfect for fishing, picnics, and breathtaking views of the ocean.
Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre
0.9 km
Discover the rich heritage and vibrant arts of Magnetic Island at the History and Craft Centre, a cultural gem for every tourist.
Dog Shed Water hole
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Dog Shed Water Hole in Picnic Bay, Queensland, a must-visit natural attraction for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Picnic Bay Foreshore
1.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Picnic Bay Foreshore, a picturesque coastal park in Queensland, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Picnic Bay Pier (End)
1.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Picnic Bay Pier, offering breathtaking views, water activities, and a serene atmosphere in beautiful Queensland.
Hawkings Point Lookout
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking 360-degree views of Picnic Bay and beyond at Hawkings Point Lookout on Magnetic Island.
Good Ju ju's Lookout
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere at Good Ju Ju's Lookout in Picnic Bay, North Queensland - a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Aquasearch Aquarium
3.2 km
Explore the underwater world at Aquasearch Aquarium in Nelly Bay, showcasing Australia’s rich marine life and promoting ocean conservation.
Ferry rock wallabie
3.2 km
Experience the captivating beauty of the Ferry Rock Wallaby in Nelly Bay, where wildlife meets stunning natural landscapes in Queensland.
Gabul Way
3.5 km
A scenic coastal walkway linking Nelly Bay and Arcadia, offering stunning views and a safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists on Magnetic Island.
Mount Cook
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Cook in Queensland, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility.
Geoffrey Bay
4.4 km
Explore the serene waters and vibrant marine life at Geoffrey Bay, a picturesque coastal haven in Australia perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Horseshoe Bay Lookout
4.8 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of Horseshoe Bay and Magnetic Island's stunning natural beauty from this easily accessible lookout.
Essential places to dine
Picnic Bay Hotel
0.8 km
Discover culinary delights at Picnic Bay Hotel - your gateway to Queensland's stunning coastline with exceptional dining and beautiful views.
R & R Bar
0.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and delicious cuisine at R & R Bar in Picnic Bay, Queensland.
Restaurant Elsie
0.9 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine with stunning views at Restaurant Elsie in Picnic Bay, Queensland - a must-visit dining destination.
Mamma Roma
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mamma Roma in Picnic Bay – where every dish is crafted with passion and fresh ingredients.
Island Burger
1.7 km
Savor gourmet burgers made from fresh local ingredients at Island Burger in Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island - where taste meets tropical paradise.
Thai Again
2.2 km
Discover the essence of Thailand through authentic flavors at Thai Again in Nelly Bay - where every dish tells a story.
Island Dosa
2.5 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Island Dosa on Magnetic Island – where gluten-free and vegan options meet culinary excellence.
Saltwater Restaurant Magnetic Island
2.6 km
Experience fine dining at Saltwater Restaurant on Magnetic Island with fresh local ingredients and stunning views over Nelly Bay.
Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar
3.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning coastal views at Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar in Nelly Bay.
Up The Garden Path Restaurant & Bar
3.3 km
Experience fresh Australian cuisine at Up The Garden Path Restaurant & Bar in Nelly Bay—where delicious flavors meet breathtaking views.
SOS - Stuffed on Seafood
3.4 km
Experience fresh Australian seafood like never before at SOS - Stuffed on Seafood in beautiful Nelly Bay.
Fruits N Scoops Pancake House
3.4 km
Experience delightful pancakes and refreshing ice creams at Fruits N Scoops Pancake House in beautiful Nelly Bay.
The Bikini Tree Cafe & Restaurant
4.8 km
Experience coastal dining at The Bikini Tree Cafe & Restaurant with delicious breakfast options and breathtaking ocean views in Arcadia.
Arcadia Village Hotel
4.8 km
Discover Arcadia Village Hotel - A delightful fusion of pub culture, family dining, and live music set against stunning coastal views.
Stage Door Theatre Restaurant
5.0 km
Discover culinary excellence and captivating performances at Stage Door Theatre Restaurant in Arcadia, Queensland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magnetic Island Promotions
2.0 km
Explore the artistic side of Magnetic Island with personalized promotional products and expert marketing services that capture your island adventure.
Magnetic Island Electronics
2.1 km
Explore cutting-edge electronics and expert advice at Magnetic Island Electronics, your premier tech destination in Nelly Bay, Queensland.
Juniper & Company
2.4 km
Explore the unique homewares at Juniper & Company, where local craftsmanship meets island charm in the heart of Nelly Bay.
Magnetic Touch Fashions
2.4 km
Explore the vibrant styles of Magnetic Touch Fashions, a boutique treasure in Nelly Bay, Queensland, showcasing unique local fashion and accessories.
Manitou Island Wear
2.4 km
Discover unique island fashion at Manitou Island Wear, your go-to clothing store in Nelly Bay, Queensland, for stylish and local apparel.
Salty Friday's
2.4 km
Explore the vibrant local fashion scene at Salty Friday's in Nelly Bay, where unique styles meet the laid-back island lifestyle.
Jungle Club
2.4 km
Discover Jungle Club in Nelly Bay: A tropical coworking oasis for creative minds and digital nomads seeking productivity.
Tiny Palm Coffee
2.4 km
Discover the delightful flavors and charming atmosphere at Tiny Palm Coffee in Nelly Bay, Queensland, a top spot for coffee enthusiasts.
Pro Dive Magnetic Island
2.5 km
Experience the underwater paradise of Magnetic Island with Pro Dive, your gateway to thrilling diving adventures and breathtaking marine life.
FoodWorks
2.6 km
Discover the best of local flavors and convenient shopping at FoodWorks, your friendly supermarket on Magnetic Island.
Nelly Bay Bottle Shop
2.6 km
Explore a diverse selection of quality drinks at Nelly Bay Bottle Shop, your go-to destination for refreshing beverages in Queensland.
Sleepy Fish
2.8 km
Explore Sleepy Fish in Nelly Bay, Queensland - your go-to boutique for stylish clothing and accessories reflecting the island's vibrant spirit.
oceans jewels on magnetic
3.1 km
Explore the magical souvenirs of Magnetic Island at Oceans Jewels, where local artistry meets unforgettable memories.
Vinnies Magnetic Island
3.1 km
Explore unique second-hand treasures and support local charities at Vinnies Magnetic Island – a must-visit op shop in Nelly Bay.
Island Living Centre
3.1 km
Discover a unique blend of art, jewelry, and souvenirs at the Island Living Centre, your go-to destination in Nelly Bay for local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arcadia village PUB
4.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Arcadia Village Pub in Picnic Bay, where delicious food and local culture come together on Magnetic Island.
Osk Bar
8.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Osk Bar, North Ward's go-to destination for relaxation and socializing.
Hooch and Fellow
9.1 km
Discover Hooch and Fellow, the vibrant bar in Townsville City, offering a dynamic atmosphere and a diverse selection of quality drinks.
Tom's Tavern
15.7 km
Discover Tom's Tavern: A vibrant pub in Aitkenvale, Queensland, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere for every visitor.
Bushland Beach Tavern
16.3 km
Experience the charm of Bushland Beach Tavern, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning coastal views come together for an unforgettable pub experience.
North shore tavern
16.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and unwind at North Shore Tavern, a charming bar in the beautiful Bushland Beach, Queensland.
The Avenues Tavern - Av Tav
17.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Avenues Tavern in Kirwan, Queensland—your go-to pub for food, drinks, and sports entertainment.
Irish Finnegans
19.4 km
Discover the flavors of Ireland in Condon, Queensland at Irish Finnegans - your go-to pub for great food, drinks, and hospitality.
Coutts Commercial Hotel
74.9 km
Experience the heart of Ayr at Coutts Commercial Hotel, where traditional Australian pub culture meets contemporary dining in a warm atmosphere.
Channel Inn Bar and Bistro
90.3 km
Discover the flavors of Queensland at Channel Inn Bar and Bistro, where local ingredients meet stunning views in a cozy atmosphere.