In this guide, I have outlined the 7 Best Magnetic Island Tours to ensure that you will have an unreal experience exploring this incredible destination.
Magnetic Island is a serene nirvana situated right within our planet’s greatest natural wonder of the world, the Great Barrier Reef Often considered Townsville’s best-kept secret, this off-the-beaten-track location has everything that a tropical paradise has to offer!
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST MAGNETIC ISLAND TOURS
Before going into the main topic of all the tours in Magnetic Island, let me list the absolute best 3 trips you should consider when coming:
Best Overall Tour in Magnetic Island
Aquascene Magnetic Island Discovery Tour
- Best way to explore all spots on Magnetic Island
- All equipment provided for snorkeling and SUP
- Snorkeling and stand-up paddleboard lessons included
Best Tour In Magnetic Island For Sightseeing
Magnetic Island Comprehensive Tour
- See the island’s top sights and hidden gems
- Learn about the local history with a fun guide
- Enjoy the best beaches and take awesome photos
Best Private Tour On Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island Gourmet Picnic on a Remote Beach
- Fun captain and lunch included
- Photogenic picnic setup for great pictures
- Drinks, a souvenir towel, and epic beaches on the way!
The island’s picturesque views, diverse marine life, lively ecosystems, rugged hiking trails, world-class snorkeling, palm-fringed beaches, and countless days of sunshine make it the ideal destination for any traveler.
7 BEST MAGNETIC ISLAND TOURS
Now that we’ve covered the best tours in Magnetic Island, let’s go further in detail and list all of them, as well as all the details you should know.
1. AQUASCENE MAGNETIC ISLAND DISCOVERY TOUR
🕛 Duration: 5 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Group Tour
Overview:
This Magnetic Island tour is a snorkel lover’s dream! Explore the crystal blues waters, closely interact with the wildlife, and learn all about the history of the island.
Run all year round, this family-owned business takes you on an adventure through bays only the locals know about and allows you to connect with the environment and all its beauty.
This particular tour is so good that it’s been rated the #1 cruise tour on the entire island and has won multiple awards since 2016.
Get this experience for only $150 AUD.
Included:
The Discovery Tour provides all the required equipment and also includes snacks and drinks to keep your energy up!
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal Stop 1 – Nelly Bay (same return point).
- 8:15 am
- 5 hours approx.
What To Expect:
Snorkel around the island’s best coral reefs, learn about marine life, and cruise around with the locals.
Additional Info:
The best season for snorkeling around Magnetic Island is in the Australian Winter (June – August) when the average temperature is 25 degrees in north Queensland.
Alongside this, it means that stinger season is over which usually occurs between November – March.
2. MAGGIE COMPREHENSIVE TOUR
🕛 Duration: 5 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Group Tour
Overview:
If you’re thinking of day-tripping to the island then this tour is for you!
Jam-packed with everything there is to see on the island it allows those with limited time to experience everything that this little piece of paradise has to offer.
Tour around the island to see the landscape, witness the tranquil waters, and observe the native Australian animals.
See all of this for only $75.00 AUD.
Included:
The Maggie Comprehensive tour provides vehicle transportation to get around the island and a local guide. There is also an option for hotel pick-up to be organized.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island ferry Terminal Stop 1 – Nelly bay (same return point).
- 10:00 am
- 5 hours approx.
What To Expect:
You’ll have the chance to be taken around the island to see the irreplaceable flora and fauna, go to the famous Geoffrey Bay to hang out with the wild Wallabies, learn about the island’s history and climb up to see breathtaking views from Horseshoe Bay.
Additional Info:
The history and craft museum included in this tour is closed on Tuesdays and between Australia Day (January 26th) and Easter.
3. MAGNETIC ISLANDS 3 BAYS IN 3 WAYS
🕛 Duration: 4 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Private Tour
Overview:
There’s no better way of seeing the island than exploring the secluded bays, and this is what this tour is all about!
This half-day trip will take you to Radical Bay, Florence Bay, and Arthur Bay, while stopping on the way for a delicious lunch.
See all of this for only $299.00 AUD.
Included:
This tour includes private transportation, lunch and bottled water, the use of snorkeling equipment, and even alcoholic beverages!
In short, there’s nothing more you’ll need on this tour.
Departure & Return:
123 Sooning St
123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island
- 9:00 am
- 4 hours approx.
What To Expect:
Take a private boat ride to secluded bays, stop for lunch and snorkeling, and discover Magnetic Island and its bays from another angle.
Additional Info:
This tour is private, so you’ll be able to enjoy yourself without waiting for other travellers.
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4. WEST POINT SUNSET TOUR ON MAGNETIC ISLAND
🕛 Duration: 2.5 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Group Tour
Overview:
Jump in the minivan and ride your way to the best spots on Magnetic Island’s western coast for the afternoon! On this group tour, you’ll be able to learn about history, the local culture, flora and fauna, and more.
You’ll also stop on the way to enjoy the views and take photos, which is exactly what you’re in Maggie Island for!
The highlight of the trip is West Point, where you’ll see the sunset before getting back to your hotel.
Have this memory for only $65 AUD.
Included:
On this tour, a local guide will accompany you and you’ll ride a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. Apart from great views, bottled water, Champagne, and a shared platter is also included, adding convenience to the day.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal – Nelly Bay (same for return point).
- 4.45 pm – 7:15 pm (approximately)
What To Expect:
Start the afternoon at Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal and meet with your guide. You’ll start heading towards the Western Coast, passing by mangroves and National Park.
You’ll stop on the way to take photos and see different types of animals, and once you get to West Point, your guide will offer a shared platter and Champagne to enjoy while watching the sunset.
How cool is this experience?! And the best part, it’s affordable!
Additional Info:
You’ll pass by the National Park in Magnetic Island and you’ll get to spot koalas, different bird species, raptors, and even possums in the forest.
5. MAGNETIC ISLAND SUNSET & SHIPWRECK TOUR
🕛 Duration: 3 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Small Group Tour
Overview:
The Magnetic Island Sunset & Shipwreck Tour offers a stunning experience and will sail in the coastal area between Nelly Bay and Cockle Bay.
This tour will give you a chance to sail away and be inspired by a spectacular sunset.
Whether you’re a small group of friends or looking for a romantic date night activity, this tour is the ultimate treat for a special night. Sit back, relax, have a glass of wine, and enjoy!
Have this incredible experience for only $99 AUD.
Departure & Return:
Pilgrim Magnetic Island, 123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay QLD
- 4:30 pm
- 2-3 hours.
What To Expect:
Enjoy a gorgeous sunset all aboard an outstanding boat! Cruise through the clear blue waters and discover an interesting shipwreck!
Additional Info:
Each booking will have a maximum of 16 people for your convenience.
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6. MAGNETIC ISLAND SAILING BBQ LUNCH CRUISE
🕛 Duration: 4 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Small Group Tour
Overview:
A yacht, snorkeling, BBQ lunch, and wine?! What isn’t there to love about this next tour?
Set Sail and uncover the distinctive landscape, turquoise blue waters, and multicolored reefs, all while enjoying a classic Aussie BBQ.
This sailing cruise has been rated 5 out of 5 by most customers and includes everything you need to have a day out on the ocean.
Your hair will be salty, your feet will be sandy, and your belly will be full if you choose the Magnetic Island Sailing BBQ Lunch Cruise.
Get all of this for only $259 AUD.
Included:
This sailing cruise includes all beverages, lunch, and all taxes.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Marina, 123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay (same return point).
- 11:15 am
- 4 hours approx.
What To Expect:
While on a yacht, enjoy the serenity of Magnetic Island’s scenic coastline. Stop off at one of the island’s famous bays, go for a snorkel, swim, or just lay out on the beach.
From there, indulge in an Aussie BBQ where the prawns are fresh, and the beer is frosty. Relax and make your way back to Nelly Bay.
Additional Info:
The coves that this tour stops at for snorkeling are Arthur Bay, Florence Bay, and Radical Bay. The cruise will anchor at whichever bay is most suitable based on weather conditions.
Also, the tour can have up to 10 people on board and is close to public transport.
7. MAGGIE ISLAND GOURMET PICNIC ON A REMOTE BEACH
🕛 Duration: 4 hours | ⭐ Rating: 5/5 | Private Tour
Overview:
Enjoy one of the most secluded spots around Magnetic Island on this premium experience for 2 people.
Meet your chauffeur in the morning and head to the best beaches in the area to take pictures with Champagne. Spend time adventuring, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying the moment.
Of course, a fresh, delicious lunch is included in this package!
Included:
First of all, lunch and alcoholic beverages are included to make sure you’re not hungry or thirsty on the way.
Also, a photo setup is included to take the best pictures, with a luxury picnic rug, stylish striped cabanas, cushions, beach games, and more.
On top of that, you’ll get a souvenir Turkish towel to remember the day, and that is priceless!
Departure & Return:
Peppers Blue on Blue Resort Magnetic Island
123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay QLD
The duration of the Eco Tour is approximately 4 hours.
What To Expect:
Travel on a private boat to explore the beaches with your other half and an expert captain. This is the ultimate private tour to a remote beach.
You’ll be able to explore a few places, from Florence Bay and Arthur Bay to the SS City of Adelaide to Orchard Rocks, and sea creatures like, turtles and sea eagles.
At noon, you’ll stop for a delicious lunch that includes fresh prawns, an antipasto platter, as well as a selection of sandwiches and seasonal fruit.
Lastly, on the stop to a remote beach, the captain will prepare everything to capture the perfect photo – a luxury picnic rug, stylish striped cabanas, cushions, beach games, and more.
Additional Info:
This is a private tour around the beaches, and it’s the perfect experience for couples who want to take a break together or those on a honeymoon and want to take stunning photos.
WHERE TO STAY ON MAGNETIC ISLAND
There are dozens of accommodation options to choose from in Magnetic Island, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.
See the list of Magnetic Island accommodations below that I personally recommend:
LUXURY: PEPPERS BLUE ON BLUE
MID RANGE: DANDALOO GARDENS
BUDGET: NOMADS MAGNETIC ISLAND
For More Options, See My Complete Guide On Where To Stay On Magnetic Island
HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND?
Magnetic Island is an isolated island located 8km offshore from the coastal town of Townsville in Queensland, Australia.
The best way to reach the island from Townsville is with the Magnetic Island Ferry which takes just 25 minutes on the passenger ferry or 45 minutes on the car ferry.
I have put together a complete guide that includes everything you need to know about the Magnetic Island Ferry to help you plan your trip ahead of time.
FULL BLOG POST → HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND
MAGNETIC ISLAND MAP
WHAT TO PACK FOR MAGNETIC ISLAND
When visiting Magnetic Island, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
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FINAL THOUGHTS – MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about tours in Magnetic Island, please leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
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