The Nelly Bay Breakwater Boat Ramp is situated along the coastline near the Magnetic Island heli-pad in Nelly Bay, which is a coastal suburb of Magnetic Island and Townsville. This area serves as a tourism hub, featuring a marina, a swimming beach, fringing reefs, and the Nelly Bay Habitat Reserve.
The ramp itself is a practical two-lane concrete structure that provides direct access to the ocean. Its location benefits from the natural shelter offered by Magnetic Island, making it a relatively protected and well-placed launch site.
Additionally, across the water, you can find nearby marinas and the ferry terminal, which enhance the area's overall activity and convenience.
Despite its excellent setup, it often feels surprisingly underused. The ramp is supported by a large car park with plenty of space for trucks, trailers, and vehicles of all sizes, making launching and retrieving boats straightforward. Fishing is a regular sight here too, with anglers frequently taking advantage of the productive waters while using the nearby jetty. The ferry terminal is just a short walk away, and if you keep an eye out, you might even spot a rock wallaby nearby.
Beyond boating, the area is also great for a relaxed swim or snorkel, with easy access to the fringing coral reef. Toward the northern end of the beach, there’s a children’s playground and a coin-operated barbecue area, while further along you’ll find sheltered picnic tables and public toilets, making it a comfortable spot for a full day by the water.
| Feature |
Description |
| Number of ramp lanes |
2 |
| Fish cleaning facilities |
None |
| Carpark spaces |
Ample parking spots available |
| Amenities |
None within the ramp; toilets, BBQ stations, picnic stations located in the Foreshore Park.
|