Coffin Bay is a standout destination if you’re after authentic seafood experiences combined with stunning coastal scenery. It’s Australia’s premier oyster-growing region, and that’s a big part of its charm. I love how the tours here go beyond just tasting oysters—they offer a glimpse into the local way of life, with opportunities to wade through oyster beds, spot playful marine life, and learn about sustainable farming practices. Some tours, like the Coffin Bay: Oyster Farm Boat Tour with Wading & 12 Oysters, include hands-on activities and boat rides, making the experience more immersive. Plus, these tours often come with the chance to enjoy freshly shucked oysters right from the source, which is hard to beat.
For travelers looking to sample oysters without committing too much time, there are shorter options like the Coffin Bay: Short and Sweet Oyster Farm Tour. But if you’re after a deeper dive, especially in the winter season, the Premium Oyster Season Winter Tour Inc Wading & 12x Oysters offers a remote offshore experience with the chance to see seals and explore secluded beaches. Each option provides a different flavor of Coffin Bay, so let’s look closer at each one to help you decide.
1. Coffin Bay: Oyster Farm Boat Tour with Wading & 12 Oysters
At number 1, this Oyster Farm Boat Tour with Wading is a 3-hour journey into the heart of Coffin Bay’s oyster industry. For $110 per person, you get to cruise across Coffin Bay, renowned as Australia’s top oyster-growing spot. The tour includes wading through oyster beds, which is a fantastic way to see the process up close and personal, and offers a chance to swim in the clear waters of this pristine environment. Your guide is an oyster farmer with extensive regional knowledge, sharing insights into both the industry and local marine life, including dolphins and seals spotted along the way. The highlight is, of course, enjoying freshly shucked oysters directly from the farm—an authentic taste of Coffin Bay’s best.
What makes this tour special is its combination of a boat cruise, farm wading, and education. The hands-on experience appeals to those who want more than just a tasting—it’s about understanding where your food comes from and witnessing the beauty of the waters that produce these oysters. It’s well-suited for those who want a comprehensive, active, and educational experience. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.9/5 rating from 29 reviews, emphasizing the knowledgeable guide and the quality of oysters.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for seafood lovers who enjoy active experiences and want a full, authentic look at both oyster farming and marine life in Coffin Bay.
2. Coffin Bay: Short and Sweet Oyster Farm Tour
For those pressed for time but still eager to taste the region’s oysters, this Short and Sweet Oyster Farm Tour offers 1.5 hours of immersion at just $59 per person. It includes a visit to a Coffin Bay oyster farm, where you’ll learn how world-class oysters are cultivated and gain insights into the Native Angasi Oyster Reef restoration project. The tour features tasting six oysters, which means you’ll get a genuine experience without taking up your whole day.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on education and scenery. You’ll cruise the local waterways close to the town, with beautiful views of the coastline and the opportunity to see how oysters are grown. The guide explains how premium oysters are produced and demonstrates shucking techniques, making it perfect for those who want to learn and taste in a condensed format. It’s rated 4.5/5 from 19 reviews, with travelers describing it as a “great introduction” and highlighting the stunning views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quick but authentic oyster experience, with the added bonus of learning about oyster reef restoration efforts.
3. Premium Oyster Season Winter Tour Inc Wading & 12 Oysters
Ranked number three, this Premium Oyster Season Winter Tour is perfect for those visiting in colder months. At $122 per person, this 3-hour tour ventures 16 km offshore to a remote oyster farm surrounded by pristine waters. The experience is more exclusive, and the highlight is tasting Premium Season Oysters—some of the best available anywhere. The tour includes wading through translucent waters and the chance to spot seals, with guides who are experienced oyster farmers sharing their knowledge.
What makes this tour stand out is its remote offshore location and focus on secluded beaches. It offers a more intimate connection with nature, away from crowds, and emphasizes the pristine environment of Coffin Bay. The reviews mention the “beautiful waters” and the chance to see seals in their natural habitat. Guests consistently praise the freshness of the oysters, describing them as “absolutely delicious.” This tour appeals to seafood connoisseurs and adventure travelers who don’t mind a bit of a boat ride to get to the best oysters.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a premium, secluded experience and are comfortable with offshore boat trips in winter.
4. Premium Oyster Season Winter Short & Sweet – Inc 6 Oysters
Rounding out the list, this Winter Short & Sweet offers a shorter, more relaxed version for $59. It includes a cruise to the first-ever Coffin Bay oyster farm and the chance to indulge in six Premium Season Oysters. The tour emphasizes an authentic farm-to-fork experience, with guests learning how these oysters are produced and shucked right before tasting. The scenery includes stunning views of Coffin Bay’s coastline, and there’s an option to purchase local wines, beers, and gin onboard.
This tour is ideal for those who want a quick introduction to Coffin Bay’s oyster industry without a lengthy commitment. The reviews note the freshness of the oysters and the beautiful coastal views. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a casual, informative outing that combines scenery, tasty oysters, and a bit of local culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors looking for a relaxed, intimate experience with the opportunity to sample premium oysters in a shorter time frame.
How to Choose the Best Coffin Bay Oyster Tour for You
When selecting among these fantastic options, consider your budget, available time, and interest level. If you want a full-day adventure with boat wading and marine wildlife, the Coffin Bay: Oyster Farm Boat Tour with Wading & 12 Oysters is your best bet. For a quick taste and easy learning, the Short and Sweet Oyster Farm Tour offers great value.
In winter, the Premium Oyster Season Winter Tour and its shorter version are excellent choices for those seeking a more remote, premium experience, with the added thrill of seeing seals and exploring secluded beaches. Consider also booking early—these tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Coffin Bay offers a variety of oyster tours tailored to different interests and schedules. If you love active, immersive experiences and want to learn how oysters are farmed, the Oyster Farm Boat Tour with Wading is a top pick. For a quick but authentic taste of the region’s oysters, the Short and Sweet Oyster Farm Tour fits the bill. And if you’re visiting in winter and craving a more exclusive, offshore adventure, the Premium Oyster Season Winter Tour offers a memorable, premium experience.
No matter which tour you choose, Coffin Bay’s oysters and scenic waters promise a memorable, authentic taste of this Australian seafood paradise. Be sure to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot for a truly special experience.