Magnetic Island National Park Townsville

Photo credit: © Queensland Government

Horseshoe Bay Lagoon Conservation Park

Visit the largest seasonal freshwater lagoon on the island, a good place spot a diversity of bird life.

Journey type
Walk
Distance
560m one way A path where the start point is different to the finish point
Time suggested
10min return
Grade
Grade 2 walking track

Accessible by

  • Conventional vehicle
  • Bicycle
  • Walk-in

Journey facilities

  • Walking

Gawru – Route 3

Horseshoe Bay Lagoon is the largest seasonal freshwater lagoon on the island and one of the few bulkuru sedge swamps in the area. An easy short walk from Horseshoe Bay beach front, the lagoon is ideal place for bird watching.

During the wet season water flows down creeks from the surrounding hills and springs surface around the lowlands of Horseshoe Bay, replenishing the lagoon. Magpie Geese and other waterbirds flock here in the wet season and use the lagoon for breeding as the water recedes. Most years, the lagoon will dry up completely towards to end of the dry season.

Getting there and getting around

The walking track to access Horseshoe Bay Lagoon Conservation Park (Route 3) is via a turn off from Horseshoe Bay Road in Horseshoe Bay.

Access is via a sealed road suitable for conventional 2WDs. Bus stops are close by—see Kinetic for more information.

Walking distance to Horseshoe Bay Lagoon from:

  • Horseshoe Bay 560m one way
  • Forts Junction 2.1km one way.

Wheelchair access

There is no wheelchair-accessible facilities on this walk.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Horseshoe Bay Lagoon Conservation Park is open 24 hours a day.

Check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions.

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Magnetic Island safely and Walk with care.