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Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

2.0 star property
Adults-only beachfront hostel with outdoor pool

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

Standard Room, Shared Bathroom, Ocean View
Deluxe Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Private Bathroom, Ocean View
Property grounds
Deluxe Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Private Bathroom, Ocean View
Breakfast, lunch and dinner served

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning
  • Breakfast available

Explore the area

View in a map
1 Nelly Bay Road, Nelly Bay, QLD, 4819
  • Place, Magnetic Island National Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Nelly Bay Beach
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Nelly Bay Habitat Reserve
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Townsville, QLD (TSV)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Dormitory Room - 6 Beds

Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Dormitory Room - 6 Beds

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

Private - Double - Ocean View - Ensuite

  • Sleeps 2
  • Free WiFi

Bed in 6-Bed Shared Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1
  • Free WiFi

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)
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

Shared Dormitory, Women only - 6 Beds

Shared Dormitory, Women only - 6 Beds

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

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

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

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Bed in 8-Bed Shared Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1
  • Free WiFi

About the area

Nelly Bay

On the beach.Within 6 miles (10 km) of this hostel, you'll find Radical Bay and Horseshoe Bay Beach. Museum of Tropical Queensland and Queens Gardens are within 12 miles (20 km).
View more Hostels in Nelly BayOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • 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

  • ‪Granite - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Tiny Palm Coffee - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Ric's Woodfire Pizza - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Caffe Dell' Isola - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Shorehouse - ‬39 min drive

About this property

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

Adults-only beachfront hostel with outdoor pool
There's a restaurant on site. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. WiFi is free in public spaces. An outdoor pool, a nightclub, and tour/ticket assistance are also featured at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel. Self parking is free.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this Nelly Bay hostel.

  • 1 floor
  • 30 guestrooms or units
  • 30 buildings
  • Built in 2004
  • Nightclub
  • Poolside lounge chairs
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Pool or billiards table
  • Garden
  • ATM
  • Smoking in designated areas
  • Bar or lounge
  • Dining venue
Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel offers 30 air-conditioned accommodations, which are accessible via exterior corridors and feature ceiling fans. Rooms open to balconies. This Nelly Bay hostel provides complimentary wireless Internet access, with a speed of 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices). Housekeeping is offered daily and irons/ironing boards can be requested.

Similar properties

Outdoor pool
Amaroo Rainforest Resort
Nelly Bay
  • Pool
  • Parking included
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning
3.9 out of 5, Good, 40 reviews
The price is CA $140
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 17 - Jun 18
Amaroo Rainforest Resort

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 transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • RV/bus/truck parking on site

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 motorized watercraft

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 elevator
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

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 available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

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

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 alternate 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

  • No pets 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.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: AUD 20 per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

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

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

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, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, and cash.

We should mention

  • Please note that this property can refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, which include pre-wedding stag/bachelor and hen/bachelorette parties.
  • Pool access available from 7 AM to 7 PM.
  • This is an adults-only property and guests under 18 years old aren't allowed.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.

Property is also known as

Base Hostel Magnetic Island
Base Magnetic Island
Base Magnetic Island Hostel
Hostel Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island Base
Magnetic Island Base Hostel
Magnetic Island Hostel
Base Backpackers Hotel Magnetic Island
Base Magnetic Island Hostel Nelly Bay
Base Magnetic Island Nelly Bay
Base Magnetic Island Nelly

Frequently asked questions

How close is Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel to the airport?

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel is 14.4 mi (48-min drive) away from the Townsville, QLD (TSV) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel?

As of Jun 16, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel on Jun 19, 2026 start from CA $263, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel.

How close is Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel to the beach?

This hostel is on the beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel offer free breakfast?

Free breakfast isn’t provided at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel, but cooked-to-order breakfast is offered for a fee of between AUD 12 and 30 per person. It's available every day from 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM.

Is there a casino at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel?

No, there is no casino at this hostel.

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

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight.

Is there free parking at Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel?

This hostel offers free self parking.

Does Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel have a pool?

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel features an outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy pool access from 7 AM to 7 PM.

Does Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel have a restaurant?

Yes, there is a restaurant on site.

Does Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hostel.

How close is Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel to downtown Nelly Bay?

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel is 1.1 mi away from Nelly Bay.

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel Reviews

Reviews

8.2

Very good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 66 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 27 out of 66 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 66 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 66 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 66 reviews

7.0/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

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

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.
Verified

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.
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

4/10 Poor

Barry

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

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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.
Verified

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!
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Thomas

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

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.
Verified

8/10 Good

stephanie

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
Verified

8/10 Good

Darvid

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.
Verified

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.
Verified

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.