Short on Time? See the Island’s Highlights
Maggie Highlights
A relaxed afternoon tour with wildlife, views, and local stories—perfect when time is limited.
A relaxed afternoon tour with wildlife, views, and local stories—perfect if you want a great experience without committing to a full day.
Perfect for travellers short on time
Timed to connect with evening ferries
Highly Rated Experience
See the highlights in just a few hours
Great chance to spot wildlife
Overview
Short on time but still want to experience the best of Magnetic Island?
This relaxed afternoon tour is designed to give you a taste of the island’s stunning landscapes, local wildlife, and rich stories—without taking up your whole day.
Travel with a local guide as you explore scenic lookouts, coastal bays, and wildlife hotspots, all at a comfortable pace. It’s the perfect way to experience Magnetic Island when time is limited.
Short on time? You can still explore the island’s history and wildlife on our Highlights Tour.
Perfect for:
- Travellers short on time
- Cruise ship visitors
- Visitors wanting a relaxed, easy experience
- Anyone looking for a quick introduction to Magnetic Island
What to expect?
- Small-group tour (no big crowds)
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transport
- Regular stops for photos and short walks
- Minimal walking required Flexible itinerary based on conditions
What is included?
- Air-conditioned minibus transport
- Free bottled water
- Engaging local tour guide
What is Not included?
- Pickup from Townsville. Guests need to make their own way to Magentic Island
- Lunch or drinks not listed in the inclusions
- Ferry Tickets – These can be purchased in our booking system
- Vists to the Koala Park at Bounce
Highlights
Spot Wild Animals in their natural habitat
Visit scenic bays and coastal lookouts
Hear local stories and island history
Plenty of Photostops
Relaxed and easy-paced experience
Want to see more of the island?
Upgrade to our Maggie Comprehensive Day Tour for the full experience, including more locations, deeper stories, and extra time to explore.
Click the Tabs to Find Out More
Tour Details
Price
- Adults $70
- Seniors/Concessions $60
- Kids (5–14) $35
- Under 5s free
- Australian Companion Card holders accepted.
- Group discounts available.
- Suitable for all fitness levels
- Wheelchair can be accommodated with prior notification
Departure Time
- Depart 3pm return 5:23-6pm
- Departs from Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal
Itinerary
Subject to seasonal and weather variations, your journey may include:
- Nelly Bay → Picnic Bay
Begin your journey with a scenic coastal drive, passing Rocky Bay lookout before heading down to Picnic Bay. Here, you’ll uncover stories from Magnetic Island’s early settler days and get a feel for the island’s laid-back charm. - Arcadia Hill Lookout
After Nelly Bay, we climb to one of the island’s best vantage points offering sweeping views across Cleveland Bay and out to the mainland. It’s a moment worth slowing down for. - Geoffrey Bay & Rock Wallabies
Explore the unique coastline of Geoffrey Bay, known for its striking rock formations and reef research sites. Keep an eye out for the resident Allied Rock Wallabies, often seen hopping among the boulders at the water’s edge - Horseshoe Bay Free Time
Wrap up the tour at Horseshoe Bay, where you’ll have time to relax your way—take a swim, enjoy a bite to eat, or simply soak up the atmosphere.
During butterfly season (June–September), we’ll also take a short walk through the Butterfly Forest for a chance to witness this seasonal spectacle. - Flexible Return Options
- Return with us to the ferry terminal in time for your connection, or stay a little longer to enjoy dinner and sunset at Horseshoe Bay before making your own way back.
Availability
- June to September
- Check calendar for availabilty
Duration
- Approximately 2.5-3 hours
What to bring
- Comfortable Shoes
- Hat and water bottle
Cancellation
We understand that plans do change and try to be as understanding as possible. Our standard terms are:
- 100% Refund if cancelled 48 hours or more from departure.
- 50% Refund if cancelled between 48 hours and 24 hours from departure.
- 0% Refund if cancelled less than 24 hours from departure.
- No shows are responsible for 100% of tour fees.
- Guests also have the option to reschedule free of charge.Comfortabl;e Shoes
Short on time but still want the full Maggie experience?
This relaxed afternoon tour brings together Magnetic Island’s standout highlights: wildlife, coastal views, and local stories. All in an easy, enjoyable 2.5-hour experience.
Departing from Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, you’ll explore scenic lookouts, historic bays, and hidden spots that many visitors miss, all with a knowledgeable local guide.
The tour finishes in time to connect with the evening ferry back to Townsville, or you can choose to stay on and enjoy dinner and sunset at Horseshoe Bay before making your own way back.
Ferry Information
Tours will connect with eigher the 6pm or 6:25pm Sealink depature from Magnetic Island
Accessibilty
Low activity level (some short walks). Wheelchair-accessible vehicle available—please contact us in advance.
This is more than a tour, it’s a chance to experience Magnetic Island the way locals do.
Relaxed, personal, and full of moments you’ll remember long after your holiday ends
SimpleSecure Online Booking
Flexible Options if Your Plans Change
Friendly Local Support
Check Out What Our Previous Guests Say
Ready to experience Magnetic Island the local way?
Relaxed, personal, and filled with the moments that make a day on Maggie unforgettable.