Search Picnic Bay hotels

Top reasons to visit Picnic Bay

• Stunning Beaches: Picnic Bay boasts beautiful sandy shores perfect for relaxation and beach walks.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like golf and island boat tours, catering to both nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.
• Scenic Walks: Take in breathtaking sea views along the Coral Sea, ideal for leisurely strolls.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The suburb is welcoming for families and budget-conscious travellers.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from beachfront resorts to cosy hotels for a perfect stay.

Find great hotels near Picnic Bay

Discover the charm of Picnic Bay with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs. From beachfront resorts to cosy hotels, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure on Magnetic Island. Enjoy the serene surroundings, indulge in spa treatments, or explore the stunning coastline—all while being close to the local attractions. Picnic Bay is the ideal destination for a memorable getaway in Queensland.

• Aquarius on the Beach: Nestled just 8.0km from Picnic Bay, Aquarius on the Beach is a welcoming 4-star hotel that embraces the LGBTQIA community. This beachside property offers direct access to the sandy shores, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed beach vacation. Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on inclusivity, ensuring a memorable stay for all. The hotel provides comfortable accommodations with a distinct coastal charm, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze.
• Peppers Blue on Blue: Located only 3.2km from Picnic Bay, Peppers Blue on Blue is a luxurious 4.5-star escape designed for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. This property features an array of adventure sports and recreational activities, including boating, snorkelling, hiking, sailing, and kayaking, ensuring an action-packed stay. Additionally, guests can unwind in the full-service spa, complete with a variety of treatments and a serene pool area. With its stunning views and modern amenities, this hotel is perfect for a rejuvenating getaway.
• Shoredrive Motel: Just 8.0km from Picnic Bay, Shoredrive Motel is a 3.5-star pet-friendly accommodation that combines city convenience with beach access. This charming motel allows pets on-site, making it an excellent choice for travellers who want to bring their furry companions along. Located in the heart of the city, guests can enjoy a blend of urban amenities and coastal relaxation. The motel's friendly atmosphere and direct beach access create a perfect setting for a laid-back holiday with your pets.

Where to stay near Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay, located on Magnetic Island, offers a perfect blend of tropical relaxation and outdoor adventure. With stunning sea views and the inviting Nelly Bay Beach nearby, visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days and soothing vibes. Explore the friendly atmosphere of the suburb, ideal for families and budget-conscious travellers alike. From scenic walks along the Coral Sea to engaging in sports activities, Picnic Bay promises a memorable experience for all who venture here.

• Townsville: Situated approximately 9.7km from Picnic Bay, Townsville is a vibrant city offering a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. With its visitor numbers peaking between July and September, this city is a hub for sports enthusiasts, boasting a range of facilities including stadiums and recreation parks. Highlights include the stunning beachfront, where you can relax or partake in various water sports, and the nearby education centres that provide insights into the local culture and history. Townsville's lively atmosphere is perfect for those seeking entertainment and adventure.
• Magnetic Island: Located about 4.8km from Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island is a picturesque island retreat perfect for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors flock here in April, July, and September to experience its breathtaking scenery and exhilarating activities. Explore the national parks that cover over half of the island, or indulge in a round of golf while soaking in the stunning views. The beautiful beaches here invite relaxation, while the thriving wildlife adds to the island’s charm. Magnetic Island is an ideal spot for those wanting to connect with nature.
• Nelly Bay: Just 1.6km away from Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay is a tranquil suburb that captivates visitors with its serene atmosphere and natural beauty. Like Magnetic Island, it sees peak arrivals in April, July, and September. With its scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures, Nelly Bay is perfect for golf enthusiasts and those looking to unwind at local spas. The proximity to the beach and the national parks makes it an excellent base for exploring the stunning coastal environment. Nelly Bay offers a relaxed yet adventurous experience, making it a must-visit.

Things to do in and around Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay offers a fantastic getaway for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Enjoy a round of golf at the local course, or take part in the lively atmosphere surrounding the arena entertainment facility. Don't miss the sweeping beach, perfect for relaxation or a stroll, and consider joining an island boat tour to explore the beautiful surroundings. This destination is ideal for both sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit the Craft Market, located 3.2km away, offering a vibrant public market atmosphere. The Horseshoe Bay Markets, 4.8km away, also provide a great local shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, check out Willows Shopping Centre, 13.2km away, for a broader selection.

Recreation

Experience the wellness vibes at Massage on Magnetic, just a short distance from Picnic Bay, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Magnetic Island Golf Course offers stunning views and a chance to unwind while enjoying a round of golf in a beautiful setting.

Adventure

The Townsville 400 Racetrack offers an exhilarating motor racing experience, located 11.3km from Picnic Bay, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For family fun, visit the Strand Waterpark, 9.7km away, featuring thrilling slides and pools. For water sports enthusiasts, the Townsville Barra Fishing & Cable Ski Park, 24.1km away, provides exciting fishing and cable skiing adventures.

Nightlife

Picnic Bay offers a relaxed nightlife with stunning ocean views. Enjoy a drink at the Picnic Bay Hotel, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere. For a laid-back evening, stroll along the beach or catch live music at local venues, immersing yourself in the friendly community vibe.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Picnic Bay

To save money during your visit to Picnic Bay, consider travelling in the cheaper months of January to February and November, with Tuesday being the least expensive day to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly accommodation, and look for eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in an Expedia package can also lead to significant savings. Don't miss out on free activities like exploring the local beaches and parks to make the most of your vacation without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Picnic Bay are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Picnic Bay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Picnic Bay is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences with ease. You can arrange your results to display hotels from the most affordable to the pricier options, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Picnic Bay hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay, Queensland, is perfect for an adventurous getaway, offering stunning beaches and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in the nearby national parks and reserves, while the local attractions, including the Picnic Bay Jetty and the breathtaking Magnetic Island, provide a memorable experience. With its fantastic outdoor scenery and opportunities for sports, Picnic Bay is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure in Australia.

• Magnetic Island National Park: Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Magnetic Island National Park, located only 4.8km from Picnic Bay. Enjoy adventurous hikes, breathtaking views, and the chance to spot koalas in their natural habitat amidst the park's beautiful scenery.
• Horseshoe Bay Beach: Relax at Horseshoe Bay Beach, a picturesque beach just 6.4km from Picnic Bay. With its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, it's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water sports in a vibrant beach atmosphere.
• Rocky Bay: Experience the laid-back vibe of Rocky Bay, a nudist beach located 1.3km from Picnic Bay. This tropical haven welcomes budget-friendly travellers, providing a peaceful spot to unwind and connect with nature in a friendly environment.

Best time to go to Picnic Bay

The best time to visit Picnic Bay is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
April	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Picnic Bay

Flying into Picnic Bay, Queensland, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Townsville Airport (TSV) is located 11.3km away, offering a range of accommodation options such as Rambutan Resort, a 5-star hotel 4.8km from TSV, and The Ville Resort - Casino, a 4.5-star hotel 6.4km away. Both hotels provide easy access to the airport. Alternatively, Palm Island Airport (PMK), situated 36.4km away, has Orpheus Island Lodge, a 5-star resort 16.1km from PMK, which offers limited-hour shuttle services and scheduled availability for transfers. This makes reaching Picnic Bay from either airport a straightforward experience.