A sailboat on calm waters with a cityscape and mountains in the background.

Picnic Bay Hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Tomorrow
Sep 30 - Oct 1
This weekend
Oct 2 - Oct 4
Next weekend
Oct 9 - Oct 11

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Our top choices for Picnic Bay hotels

1. Peppers Blue on Blue

Peppers Blue on Blue
Nelly Bay
Australia
Jason
P12,549
P12,549 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Peppers Blue on Blue

2. Amaroo Rainforest Resort

Amaroo Rainforest Resort
Nelly Bay
Australia
Korrie
P6,980
P7,678 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Amaroo Rainforest Resort

3. Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island

Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island
Nelly Bay
Australia
Jim
P13,961
P15,357 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island

4. Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel
Nelly Bay
Australia
Evyenia
P13,240
P14,564 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

5. True North Bed & Breakfast

True North Bed & Breakfast
Horseshoe Bay
United States
Woody
P8,436
P9,280 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 13 - Oct 14
True North Bed & Breakfast

6. Magnetic Glamping

Magnetic Glamping
Nelly Bay
Australia
Susan
P15,728
P17,300 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Magnetic Glamping

7. Seahaven Resort

Seahaven Resort
Belgian Gardens
Australia
Barbara Ratton
P5,764
P6,340 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Seahaven Resort

8. Bounce Magnetic Island

Bounce Magnetic Island
Horseshoe Bay
Australia
Robert
P5,618
P6,180 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 13 - Oct 14
Bounce Magnetic Island

9. Oaks Townsville Hotel

Oaks Townsville Hotel
South Townsville
Australia
Mandy
P8,293
P8,293 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Oaks Townsville Hotel

10. QCWA Kissing Point Units

QCWA Kissing Point Units
North Ward
Australia
Paulette
P8,056
P9,811 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
QCWA Kissing Point Units

11. Avenues Xchange

Avenues Xchange
Hermit Park
Australia
Zoe
P3,151
P3,466 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Avenues Xchange

12. Ardo

Ardo
Townsville
Australia
Eduard
P10,985
P12,083 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Ardo

13. Shoredrive Motel

Shoredrive Motel
North Ward
Australia
Steve
P4,788
P5,266 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Shoredrive Motel

14. Summit Motel

Summit Motel
Townsville
Australia
Julie
P6,103
P6,713 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Summit Motel

15. Aquarius on the Beach

Aquarius on the Beach
North Ward
Australia
Adrian
P6,783
P7,461 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Aquarius on the Beach

16. Mercure Townsville

Mercure Townsville
Currajong
Australia
tania
P6,064
P6,671 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Mercure Townsville

17. Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island

Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island
Nelly Bay
Australia
David
P12,718
P17,501 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island

18. Rambutan Resort

Rambutan Resort
Townsville
United Kingdom
Sophie
P4,714
P5,186 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 22 - Oct 23
Rambutan Resort

19. Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville

Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville
South Townsville
Australia
Kelvin
P7,140
P7,854 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville

20. The Palmer Collective

The Palmer Collective
South Townsville
Australia
Karen
P6,930
P7,623 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
The Palmer Collective
View all properties
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Picnic Bay attractions

Magnetic Island Golf Course

9.0/10 (6 reviews)
Enjoy a round of golf in Picnic Bay at Magnetic Island Golf Course. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its charming cafes.
See properties

Learn more about Picnic Bay

This tranquil Magnetic Island beach offers calm swimming waters and a historic jetty perfect for fishing and sunset views. Rent a kayak to explore the bay's crystal-clear waters or enjoy fresh seafood at the relaxed beachfront cafes.

See all hotels in Picnic Bay
A boat on calm water, a sandy beach, large rocks, and palm trees.

Top Picnic Bay Hotel Reviews

Aquarius on the Beach

Aquarius on the Beach

8/10 Good
"Very comfortable room, ample for two people. Bed was very comfortable. Lounge chair was very comfortable and great size. Kitchenette contained everything we needed. Ocean view was awesome. Walking distance to restaurants and shops. We flew into town and caught the 222 bus from the airport. Fare was 50c. Bus stop near Seaview hotel, which is walking distance to Aquarius. Front desk staff were extremely friendly. Will definitely be staying here again."
Megan 2-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Aquarius on the Beach
Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville

Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville

8/10 Good
"Clean room & comfortable bed, unfortunately no parking available when I was there due to the hotel being full & the entertainment happening during my stay"
Rommel 2-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville
Allure Hotel & Apartments

Allure Hotel & Apartments

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent location and helpful staff. Very clean and quiet room. Comfortable bed."
Lynore 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Allure Hotel & Apartments
Rambutan Resort

Rambutan Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Great location walking distance to everything you need , easy enough to get on roads when you to drive out . Nice restaurant and bar area close to pool , rooms very clean , and well equipped"
andrew 2-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
Rambutan Resort
Picnic Bay Hotel

Picnic Bay Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"These are newly renovated units that are very modern and functional. The decor is great and the size is adequate. The free breakfast offered is so amazingly tasty and large in portion generously. The shuttle service is included which is so prompt and efficient from and to the ferry terminal. The staff are very accommodating, friendly and pleasant. We highly recommend this hotel which is 5 mins from the terminal. The location is quiet and restaurant is next door to the hotel. There are a few other restaurants very close to the hotel on the esplanade. Overall, it’s a 5 star with great amenities and service."
Louis 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Picnic Bay Hotel
Seahaven Resort

Seahaven Resort

8/10 Good
"Room was clean and very well presented upon arrival. Pool was fantastic size and conveniently located near room. There was also a small playground on site which was great for the kids. We had daily housekeeping but they only changed the towels beds weren’t made and floor wasn’t cleaned and the restaurant was undergoing renovations so we weren’t able to use it."
Elizabeth 4-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Seahaven Resort
Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites

Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites

8/10 Good
"Good sized apartment. We had WiFi issues that were capable of being resolved but weren't. River facing apartments suffer from persistent traffic noise which were annoying when using the deck"
Gerald 4-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites
Rydges Southbank Townsville

Rydges Southbank Townsville

10/10 Excellent
"I always stay at Rydges when in Townsville, even though their prices are a bit high compared to other hotels."
raj 1-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Rydges Southbank Townsville
Holiday Inn Townsville by IHG

Holiday Inn Townsville by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Wonderful Stay, Really enjoyed"
Sarath Lal 3-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Holiday Inn Townsville by IHG

More cheap stays in Picnic Bay

Cascade Motel In Townsville

Cascade Motel In Townsville

100 Bowen Road Rosslea QLD
P5,560
P6,116 total
Oct 20 - Oct 21
includes taxes & fees
Cascade Motel In Townsville
Summit Motel

Summit Motel

6 Victoria Street Townsville QLD
P6,103
P6,713 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (409 reviews)
Summit Motel
BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park

BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park

88 Minehane Street Cluden QLD
P6,898
P6,967 total
Oct 13 - Oct 14
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (29 reviews)
BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park
Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel

1 Nelly Bay Road Nelly Bay QLD
P13,240
P14,564 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (67 reviews)
Nomads Magnetic Island - Hostel
Civic Guest House - Hostel

Civic Guest House - Hostel

262 Walker Street Townsville QLD
Get rates
8.8/10 Excellent! (166 reviews)
Civic Guest House - Hostel
Upper Ross Hotel

Upper Ross Hotel

1209 Riverway Drive Rasmussen QLD
Get ratesUpper Ross Hotel

Find out more about Picnic Bay

Top reasons to visit Picnic Bay

  • Stunning Beaches: Picnic Bay features pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and family outings.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various activities such as golf, picnicking, and exploring the scenic national parks.
  • Vibrant Public Market: Discover local produce and crafts at the lively public market, enhancing your cultural experience.
  • Scenic Beachfront Promenade: Stroll along the picturesque promenade while enjoying views of the bay and Magnetic Island.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With ample play areas and activities, Picnic Bay caters to visitors of all ages.

Find great hotels near Picnic Bay

For those seeking a relaxing getaway in Picnic Bay, Queensland, a variety of accommodation options awaits you. From charming hotels to luxurious resorts, this picturesque location offers the perfect setting for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Indulge in spa-themed experiences and discover the natural beauty of Magnetic Island, all while enjoying convenient hotel locations that cater to your every need.

  • Aquarius on the Beach: Aquarius on the Beach is a delightful 4-star hotel that boasts a rating of 8.6 out of 10. Located approximately 8km from Picnic Bay, this property offers a quintessential beach vacation experience. Guests can enjoy direct access to the sandy shores, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and seaside relaxation. With its inviting atmosphere and comfortable accommodations, it appeals to those seeking a tranquil retreat by the ocean, complemented by essential amenities that enhance your stay.
  • Peppers Blue on Blue: Rated at 8.8 out of 10, Peppers Blue on Blue is a luxurious 4.5-star accommodation just 3km away from Picnic Bay. This eco-certified hotel is perfect for adventurous travellers, featuring a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, boating, sailing, snorkelling, and kayaking nearby. The property also houses a full-service spa and an outdoor pool, offering guests relaxation amidst their adventurous pursuits. Its commitment to eco-friendly practices and a spa-themed atmosphere makes it a unique choice for those looking to balance adventure with wellness.
  • Shoredrive Motel: The 3.5-star Shoredrive Motel, rated at 8.0 out of 10, is situated 8km from Picnic Bay and offers a convenient beach and city-themed experience. This motel provides direct access to the beach while being located in the vibrant city centre, allowing guests to explore local attractions easily. With its affordable accommodations and essential amenities, it caters to travellers seeking a blend of beach leisure and urban exploration, making it a suitable option for those who wish to immerse themselves in both natural beauty and city life.

Where to stay near Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay, Queensland, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure for tourists. With its pristine beachfront location and serene atmosphere, it's perfect for family vacations. Explore the tranquil shores and enjoy the friendly vibe of the surrounding areas. Nearby attractions promise a tropical experience, making it an ideal spot for both leisurely days and active pursuits. Whether you're picnicking by the bay or engaging in sports, Picnic Bay is a charming destination for all.

  • Townsville: Located approximately 10km from Picnic Bay, Townsville is a vibrant city offering a diverse range of outdoor and family-friendly activities. The city's appeal lies in its blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts and active travellers. Key attractions include the impressive sports facility stadium, recreation parks, and beautiful beaches that invite visitors to unwind and explore. With a steady flow of tourists year-round, Townsville is especially lively from July to September when outdoor events and festivals take centre stage.
  • Magnetic Island: Just 5km from Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island is a stunning island getaway renowned for its picturesque scenery and adventurous opportunities. This tropical paradise is perfect for outdoor lovers seeking activities like hiking through the national park or relaxing on pristine beaches. The island's charm is further enhanced by its thriving public markets and golf courses, making it an attractive destination for both relaxation and adventure. Visitor numbers peak in April, July, and September, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere for exploring its natural wonders.
  • Nelly Bay: Situated only 2km from Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay is a serene suburb that offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Known for its tranquil beaches and proximity to national parks, it's an excellent base for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Visitors can enjoy golfing, indulge in spa treatments, or simply take in the breathtaking views. Nelly Bay experiences a steady influx of tourists, especially during peak months in April, July, and September, making it a delightful spot for relaxation and adventure alike.

Things to do near Picnic Bay

Shopping

For a quaint shopping experience, stroll through Picnic Bay's local boutiques, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the larger Magnetic Island Marketplace, about 16km away, where you can explore an array of shops and artisan stalls showcasing local crafts.

Recreation

Explore the rejuvenating atmosphere at Picnic Bay Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in soothing spa treatments, yoga sessions, and mindfulness workshops. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Magnetic Island National Park offers hiking trails with stunning views and opportunities to connect with nature.

Adventure

At Reid Park Street Circuit, located 11km from Picnic Bay, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing. Experience the adrenaline rush as you navigate the track, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of sports and adventure, making it a must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Visit the Picnic Bay Hotel for a lively atmosphere and enjoy a selection of cocktails while overlooking the beach. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the local café for evening live music, where you can unwind with a drink and appreciate the talents of local artists.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Picnic Bay

To save money on your trip to Picnic Bay, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, February, or November when prices are lower. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, avoiding the pricier Saturdays. Use Expedia to customise your preferences and filter for Eco-certified accommodations to find sustainable options. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for greater savings. Explore the area on foot or utilise public transport to keep travel costs down while enjoying free activities and local attractions.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable rates and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Picnic Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Picnic Bay

Picnic Bay, Queensland, is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of attractions such as stunning beaches, national parks, and scenic reserves. Visitors can enjoy activities like strolling along the beachfront promenade, exploring the Picnic Bay jetty, and discovering the beauty of Magnetic Island. With its picturesque bay and myriad of outdoor experiences, Picnic Bay promises a delightful vacation for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.

  • Horseshoe Bay Beach: Located 6km from Picnic Bay, this picturesque beach offers a serene atmosphere with soft sands and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The vibrant beach vibes are complemented by nearby cafes and facilities.
  • Magnetic Island National Park: Situated 5km away, this national park invites adventure seekers to explore its stunning landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike scenic trails while enjoying breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
  • Horseshoe Bay Nature Refuge: Also 6km from Picnic Bay, this protected area showcases local flora and fauna. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, enjoying tranquil surroundings and opportunities for birdwatching and leisurely walks.

Best time to go to Picnic Bay

The best time to visit Picnic Bay is dependent 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February80.2°F (26.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March78.8°F (26.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
April75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May71.1°F (21.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June67.8°F (19.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October75.4°F (24.1°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Picnic Bay

Reaching Picnic Bay, Queensland, is convenient via its major airports. Townsville Airport (TSV) is situated approximately 11km away and offers several hotels nearby, including the luxurious 5-star Rambutan Resort and the well-rated 4.5-star Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville, both located around 5km from the airport. Another option is Palm Island Airport (PMK), located about 55km from Picnic Bay, with the exclusive 5-star Orpheus Island Lodge situated 16km from the airport. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth journey to your holiday destination.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Picnic Bay?
Based on our traveler data, Picnic Bay Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay. This B&B offers free breakfast and a restaurant. Two other options for your stay in the area are The Ville Resort - Casino and Mercure Townsville. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Picnic Bay.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Picnic Bay, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Picnic Bay.
What's the best accommodation for a family trip to Picnic Bay?
Picnic Bay Hotel is a B&B with a restaurant and free parking, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Attractions in the area like Strand Waterpark and Riverway Lagoon are also fun for kids of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Picnic Bay.
What are some accommodations with pools in Picnic Bay?
The Ville Resort - Casino: Provides 3 restaurants, a pool, and a full-service spa. Mercure Townsville and Ardo are two additional hotels that offer an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in Picnic Bay.
What is the best spa hotel in Picnic Bay?
Tropical Palms is a highly recommended spa hotel with an outdoor pool. Enjoy a massage at the on-site spa. See all spa hotels in Picnic Bay.
How is it to stay in Picnic Bay?
Visitors to Picnic Bay are sure to enjoy the beaches. Tourists can also enjoy the city's golf courses and gardens. In Picnic Bay, there are 44 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Picnic Bay.
What should I see while I'm in Picnic Bay?
The picturesque setting of Magnetic Island National Park and Picnic Bay Beach exemplify the area's natural beauty. A couple of additional sights to add to your agenda are Magnetic Island Golf Course and Bolger Bay Nature Refuge. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Picnic Bay guide.
What's the weather like in Picnic Bay?
The hottest months are usually December and January with an average temp of 80°F, while the coldest months are July and August with an average of 68°F. The rainiest months in Picnic Bay are January, February, March, and December, with each month seeing an average of 9 inches of rainfall.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia