Arcadia
QLD 4819 • Queensland
About Arcadia
Arcadia is a coastal suburb on Magnetic Island, Queensland, located within the City of Townsville approximately 11 kilometres offshore from the Townsville mainland. Covering around 5.85 square kilometres, Arcadia sits on the island's eastern side between Nelly Bay and Horseshoe Bay, and recorded a population of 246 at the 2021 Census. The suburb is characterised by its relaxed island atmosphere, fringing coral reefs, sheltered bays, and the tropical bushland that covers much of Magnetic Island — around 60 per cent of which is national park.
Arcadia is home to Geoffrey Bay and Alma Bay, two of the most popular snorkelling and swimming spots on Magnetic Island, with calm, clear waters and easy access to reef life. The suburb has a small local hub with cafes and a resort, and residents access broader shopping and services via the Sealink passenger ferry to Nelly Bay and nearby Horseshoe Bay. Magnetic Island offers a unique island lifestyle with abundant wildlife including koalas, and the Forts Walk — a WWII heritage trail — is accessible from Arcadia. The suburb attracts a mix of permanent island residents, sea-changers, and holiday visitors drawn by its natural beauty and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.
Arcadia falls under postcode 4819 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Townsville electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Magnetic Island Bus Service — Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal / Horseshoe Bay 10-15 min
Commute to Townsville CBD
🛣️ Island living; Sealink ferries run regularly; on-island transport by bus, bike, or car
Arcadia has a small local hub walkable for basics, but most services require a bus or car to reach Nelly Bay or other parts of the island
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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10 - 16 Mandalay Avenue