Nelly Bay is a fantastic starting point for exploring Magnetic Island, thanks to its convenient location and abundance of interesting tours. Whether you’re after a deep dive into the island’s wildlife, a relaxing cruise, or a private adventure, Nelly Bay offers options to suit every type of traveler. We’re especially fond of the Magnetic Island: Behind the Scenes Tour, because it offers a rare glimpse into the local wildlife with a charismatic guide from the Netflix series Izzy’s Koala World. That personal touch makes it stand out. Plus, with flexible timings and ample time to explore, it’s perfect for those who want an authentic experience without feeling rushed.
If you prefer a more traditional guided exploration, the Magnetic Island: Guided Bus Tour with Morning Tea offers a comprehensive look at the island’s landscapes and history, all with a local guide who shares captivating stories. For a relaxing day on the water, the Lunchtime Sailing Cruise combines scenic sailing with delicious food and organic drinks. And for a personalized experience, the Private Guided Tour including Koalas delivers a tailored adventure focusing on wildlife encounters and island highlights. Finally, for a spectacular end to the day, the West Point Sunset Safari bus tour provides panoramic views and a memorable sunset over the Coral Sea.
Below, we’ll give you detailed insights into each of these top-rated tours, helping you choose the best fit for your travel style and interests.
1. Magnetic Island: Behind the Scenes Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Magnetic Island: Behind the Scenes Tour, which earns a stellar 4.9/5 rating based on 104 reviews. For just $76 per person, you get five hours of immersive experience led by Izzy’s Dad, the star of the Netflix series Izzy’s Koala World. This tour is not your typical sightseeing bus ride; it’s a personal, flexible journey that lets you step off the bus and spend quality time experiencing the island firsthand.
What makes this tour truly special is the personal connection with Izzy’s Dad, who shares stories and insights from his 25 years working with wildlife and the local community. This isn’t scripted; it’s a genuine, laid-back exploration designed to give you a behind-the-scenes look at life on Magnetic Island. Expect ample time to interact with local wildlife, take photos, and really get a feel for the island’s natural charm. The tour’s flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want an authentic, unhurried experience. Since it’s group-led with no fixed schedule, you can tailor your day to your interests, whether that’s wildlife, scenery, or local stories.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a personalized and engaging wildlife experience with a local personality, this tour offers great value and memorable moments.
2. Magnetic Island: Guided Bus Tour with Morning Tea
Number 2 on our list is the Magnetic Island: Guided Bus Tour with Morning Tea, rated 4.9/5 from 97 reviews. Priced at $63 per person for five hours, this tour provides an easy, comfortable way to see the island’s scenic spots with expert local guides. It’s perfect for those who want a rundown of Magnetic Island’s landscapes, wildlife, and history without the hassle of planning each stop.
The tour explores diverse environments, from beaches to bushland, and includes a walk through the Seasonal Butterfly Forest—a favorite for its vibrant displays. Your guide shares insightful stories about the island’s natural and cultural history, making it more than just a scenic drive. The included morning tea adds a relaxed touch, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors amidst stunning scenery. The tour emphasizes sustainability, ensuring your experience is environmentally responsible.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of convenience, expert storytelling, and a focus on responsible tourism. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a structured yet immersive experience without the commitment of a private tour.
Bottom Line: This guided bus tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local stories, and responsible tourism at a reasonable price.
3. Magnetic Island: Lunchtime Sailing Cruise
Sailing around Magnetic Island’s coast comes in at number 3, with the Lunchtime Sailing Cruise, rated 4.9/5 from 30 reviews. For $158 per person, you’ll spend 4 to 6 hours aboard a comfortable vessel, anchored in secluded bays where you can swim, relax, and enjoy a gourmet lunch. This tour is ideal for travelers craving a blend of adventure and relaxation on the water.
The highlight is the chance to see local wildlife up close, including marine life, while sailing the island’s stunning waters. The boat anchors in tranquil bays, giving you plenty of time to swim, lounge on the inflatable mat, or snorkel if you wish. The onboard lunch features local seafood, antipasto platters, and organic drinks—think organic wines and local beers—served in a laid-back setting. The experience emphasizes enjoying nature’s beauty with a touch of luxury.
Guests comment on the “spectacular scenery and delicious lunch,” and the informal vibe makes it suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a memorable day at sea. It’s a pricier option but offers excellent value for the unique experience of sailing, swimming, and gourmet dining all in one.
Bottom Line: For a relaxing, scenic day on the water with good food and wildlife encounters, this cruise delivers with style.
4. Magnetic Island: Private Guided Tour including Koalas
Number 4 is the Magnetic Island: Private Guided Tour including Koalas, which has a perfect 5/5 rating from 7 reviews. Priced at $462 for up to 8 people, this tour offers an intimate, tailored experience focused on the island’s wildlife, history, and natural beauty. Led by Tim Bee from Izzy’s Koala World, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a personalized and immersive adventure.
This private tour includes a visit to the Koala Hospital, where you can meet rescued koalas and learn about conservation efforts. Tim shares his 25 years of experience, pointing out local wallabies, wildlife, and explaining the island’s ecological significance. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to focus more on wildlife encounters, scenic spots, or local stories. Since it’s private, you get undivided attention and a customized route.
This experience is perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or couples wanting an exclusive, in-depth look at Magnetic Island’s nature. The reviews note how “Tim’s knowledge and passion make the experience incredibly special,” and the focus on conservation adds meaningful value.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an exclusive, wildlife-focused adventure with a local expert, this private tour is well worth the investment.
5. Magnetic Island: West Point Sunset Safari Bus Tour
Our final pick is the West Point Sunset Safari Bus Tour, rated 5/5 from 6 reviews. For $82 per person, this 2.5-hour evening tour takes you to the less-frequented West Point area, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Coral Sea. It’s perfect if you want a short, scenic, and memorable way to cap off your day.
The tour includes a complimentary drink and a shared seasonal grazing platter, making it both relaxing and flavorful. The driver shares insights about the island’s natural features and points out wildlife as you travel. The highlight is the panoramic sunset view—an excellent photo op—and the peaceful atmosphere away from busy spots.
This tour is suitable for travelers interested in a quick, scenic experience that combines nature, good food, and a relaxing vibe. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting a special sunset moment without committing to a full-day activity.
Bottom Line: For a short, scenic, and cozy sunset experience complete with drinks and snacks, this safari bus tour hits the spot.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Nelly Bay
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a personal wildlife experience, the Behind the Scenes Tour offers a genuine, informal connection with local animals and the guide’s stories. For a broader overview, the Guided Bus Tour with Morning Tea covers natural landscapes and history with a knowledgeable guide. Those seeking a relaxing day on the water will love the Lunchtime Sailing Cruise, especially if you enjoy marine life and gourmet food.
If your priority is a private, tailored experience, the Private Tour with Koalas provides a customizable adventure with wildlife encounters. On the other hand, if you want a peaceful, scenic moment at sunset, the West Point Sunset Safari offers quick, beautiful views in a comfortable setting.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the private guided experience or sunset safari, which can fill quickly during peak seasons. Also, consider the timing—some tours are best suited for mornings, afternoons, or evenings—so plan according to your itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Nelly Bay and the surrounding Magnetic Island are packed with diverse tour options that cater to different interests and budgets. For a genuinely personal wildlife experience, the Behind the Scenes Tour is hard to beat, especially if you’re a fan of wildlife and local stories. If you prefer a rundown, the Guided Bus Tour with Morning Tea offers a relaxed way to see the island’s highlights. For a luxurious day on the water, the Lunchtime Sailing Cruise provides a memorable blend of scenery, wildlife, and gourmet food.
For those seeking exclusivity, the Private Guided Tour including Koalas guarantees a tailored experience, while the Sunset Safari offers a beautiful, short evening escape. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will ensure you get the most out of your time in Nelly Bay.
Enjoy exploring this stunning island, and don’t forget—early bookings often mean better choices and availability, so plan your adventures well in advance.