About This Spot
Magnetic Island / Nelly Bay, Australia is one of the world's premier wind-sports destinations, located in Australia.
Situated in Australia, the spot offers Shallow and Chop and Small waves water conditions, making it ideal for experienced riders pushing their limits.
With ENE–SE winds, peaking from April to September, Magnetic Island / Nelly Bay, Australia delivers the kind of sessions that keep riders coming back year after year.
Why Riders Love It
Best wind at this Nelly Bay spot is ENE, which usually occurs in the afternoon from 2pm till dark when the trade winds are blowing, any time of year. The morning SE wind is also a good direction onto the beach. Best winds are usually in the autumn, winter, and spring months from April through to September. In general the wind is 15-20 knots on an average day, and 20-25 knots on a good day. Winds above 30 knots occur only a few times each year. In the summer, if the wind is Northerly, then go to Horseshoe Bay instead.
When to Go
Summer: day time temp 30-35°C. Water temp 29°C. Wear a lyrca suit or rash vest with long sleeves to protect against jellyfish stings, and sunburn. Winter: day time temp 22-27°C. Water temp 22°C. Short wetsuit is comfortable.
What to Expect
The beach at Nelly Bay needs 1.3m of water to cover the reef flat, and tides of 1.3 to 1.8m gives good flat water over the reef flat, and larger waves outside on the reef edge. There is a flat water section close to the harbour at the northern end. The reef flat is quite sharp - booties are advised if kiting on tides lower than 1.3m.
Wind & Conditions
ENE · SE
Best wind direction
Best wind at this Nelly Bay spot is ENE, which usually occurs in the afternoon from 2pm till dark when the trade winds are blowing, any time of year. The morning SE wind is also a good direction onto the beach. Best winds are usually in the autumn, winter, and spring months from April through to September. In general the wind is 15-20 knots on an average day, and 20-25 knots on a good day. Winds above 30 knots occur only a few times each year. In the summer, if the wind is Northerly, then go to Horseshoe Bay instead.
Best Months
Water Conditions
The beach at Nelly Bay needs 1.3m of water to cover the reef flat, and tides of 1.3 to 1.8m gives good flat water over the reef flat, and larger waves outside on the reef edge. There is a flat water section close to the harbour at the northern end. The reef flat is quite sharp - booties are advised if kiting on tides lower than 1.3m.
Check Conditions
Live Wind Forecast at Magnetic Island / Nelly Bay, Australia
Check real-time wind conditions before you head out.
Facilities & Access
📍 Getting There
🚶Short walk to the beach
From the Townsville Aiport catch a taxi or shuttle bus to the ferry terminal, then take the ferry to Magnetic island (25mins). You can walk to the Nelly Bay spot from the ferry terminal in about 15 min, or catch the island bus service and it will drop you right there.
Location
Travel Light
Travel Light to Magnetic Island / Nelly Bay, Australia
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Schools at Magnetic Island / Nelly Bay, Australia
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