Base Backpackers Hostel Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island was named because of a magnetic effect it had on the compass of Captain James Cook's ship as he sailed up the east coast of Australia in 1770. It is the only island on the north Queensland coast with a blend of untouched National Park, a resident population of about 2500 and a variety of holiday resorts. It averages more than 320 days of sunshine a year, making it a very popular holiday destination.

Hotels and resorts cater for all budgets. Fifty-four percent of Magnetic Island is National Park, which is mostly on the steep hilly interior and rugged north-western side. It is an absolute haven for wildlife. Base Backpackers on a small beach at Nelly Bay, is aimed at the 18 to 35 demographic and, as with the other Base sites across Australia and New Zealand, style, security and cleanliness are paramount.

The bar and dining areas are large, architecturally-designed spaces with one missing wall. That brings the outside in, with palm trees, sparkling ocean views and a coral reef just 20 metres away, creating a spectacular atmosphere.