Magnetic Island Afternoon HIghlights Tour

The perfect island intro—short on time, big on experience.

Pressed for time but still want the full Maggie magic? This relaxed afternoon tour is your golden ticket to Magnetic Island’s top highlights—with local wildlife, jaw-dropping views, and insider stories all packed into a breezy 2.5-hour adventure.

Departing at 3:00 PM from Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, we’ll show you everything from coastal lookouts to historical bays and secret scenic spots—even some that locals miss! The tour wraps up by 5:45 PM, so you’ll be back in time for the 6:00 PM ferry to Townsville (or 6:35 PM weekends). Want to stay longer? You’re welcome to enjoy dinner and sunset at Horseshoe Bay and make your own way back.

Why You’ll Love It

• Fast, fun, and full of stories
  From geology to WWII tales to modern island life, our guides cover it all with humour and heart.
• Wildlife lovers rejoice
  See wallabies, birds, and Magnetic Island’s famous wild koalas in their natural habitat. Though we can never gurantee a sighting
• Unmissable views
  Snap panoramic photos from Rocky Bay, Arcadia Hill, and Horseshoe Bay.
• Flexible finish
  Return to Nelly Bay with us, or stay in Horseshoe Bay for sunset and dinner—your choice.

What’s Included

• Air-conditioned minibus transport
• Friendly, knowledgeable local guide
• Optional sunset return trip
• Small group size for a personalised experience
• Wheelchair-accessible vehicle (by prior arrangement)

Prices

• Adults: $70 AUD
• Seniors: $60 AUD
• Children (5–14): $35 AUD
• Under 5s: Free
• Companion Card holders accepted
• Min. 4 guests outside school holidays

Tour Info

• When: Monday to Saturday, 3:00–5:45 PM
• Where: Starts and ends at Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal
• Getting here: Take the 2:15 PM SeaLink Ferry from Townsville
• Bring: Hat, sunglasses, water, camera, spending money, and a sense of fun

Itinerary Highlights

(Subject to change based on season and weather)

• Nelly Bay to Picnic Bay
  Scenic drive past Rocky Bay lookout, then down to Picnic Bay to uncover the island’s early settler stories.
• Nelly Bay Break
  A quick comfort stop before climbing Arcadia Hill for unforgettable views over Cleveland Bay.
• Geoffrey Bay Stop
  Explore quirky rock formations and reef research sites—and meet our rare Allied Rock Wallabies.
• Horseshoe Bay Free Time
  Stroll the beach, enjoy a bite, or dip in the water. In butterfly season (June–Sept), we’ll also take a short bushwalk through the magical Butterfly Forest.
• Flexible Return Options
  Head back to the ferry with us—or stay for a beachside dinner and a knockout Magnetic Island sunset.

Book your afternoon tour today and discover why this island steals so many hearts.