Magnetic Island: Snorkeling, Paddle Board & Secluded Bays Tour

Summary

Snorkel reefs paddle quiet bays connect with island stories

You’ll snorkel lively reefs, paddle into tucked-away bays most visitors miss, and share morning tea with guides who know Magnetic Island inside out. Expect hands-on help with gear, reef stories from Master Reef Guides, and time to relax on quiet beaches—plus those small moments that stick with you long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start my day on Magnetic Island by fumbling with a wetsuit in front of strangers, but there I was—awkwardly tugging at the zipper while Adam (our guide) grinned and handed out masks. The air smelled salty and a bit sharp, like sunscreen and wet rope. It was still early but already warm; a couple of lorikeets were squabbling in the trees near the dock. Adam pointed out the line of granite boulders along the coast and said something about them being older than Australia itself—honestly, I was too busy trying not to drop my fins overboard.

We slid into the water just off one of those quiet bays you’d never find on your own. The reef was right there—close enough that I could see tiny fish darting between coral fingers. Steph showed us how to float above without kicking up sand (I’m still not sure I got it right). At one point a parrotfish nibbled so close I almost laughed through my snorkel. There’s this hush underwater that makes everything else fade out; you just hear your own breathing and sometimes someone’s muffled “wow” nearby. We learned about the Great Barrier Reef from Steph—she called herself a Master Reef Guide and told us about sea cucumbers in a way that actually made them sound interesting.

Afterwards we paddled around on stand-up boards—I wobbled, obviously—and then sat on this floating pontoon for morning tea. Biscuits, cake, fruit… nothing fancy but somehow perfect after swimming. There was coffee too, which tasted better with salt still on your lips. Someone asked about whales (it wasn’t whale season but apparently July is wild here), and Adam told us a story about dolphins showing off last month. He knew everyone’s name by then.

I keep thinking about that moment sitting on the beach—feet half-buried in warm sand, sun on my face, listening to stories about Indigenous history while a curlew picked its way along the shore. It felt like being let in on some local secret, even though it’s just part of their day trip Magnetic Island routine. I’d go again if only for that quiet feeling after all the splashing stops.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Magnetic Island Discovery and Snorkeling

• Start 5-hour discovery tour
• Explore secluded bays and beaches
• Enjoy morning tea on beach
• Snorkel colorful fringing reefs
• Learn about Great Barrier Reef
• Meet marine and bird life
• Use stand up paddle boards
• Relax on floating pontoon
• Receive snorkel tuition
• Hear indigenous and reef stories

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included in this Magnetic Island tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided—including wetsuits or UV suits—and tuition is included if you need it.

How long does the Magnetic Island Discovery Tour last?

The tour lasts about 5 hours from start to finish.

Are stand-up paddle boards available during the tour?

Yes, stand-up paddle boards are free to use as part of the experience.

Is morning tea provided on this day trip?

Morning tea is included—expect biscuits, cake, seasonal fruit plus coffee and tea.

Can people with mobility challenges join this tour?

The tour is suitable for guests with mobility challenges or sensory needs; wheelchairs and strollers are welcome.

Do guides provide information about the Great Barrier Reef?

Yes, Master Reef Guides share educational stories about the reef during your trip.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Service animals are allowed during this Magnetic Island tour.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to where the tour starts.

What’s included

Your day includes free use of stand-up paddle boards and all snorkeling equipment (with lessons if needed), complimentary UV suits or wetsuits for comfort in the water, morning tea served on a secluded beach with biscuits, cake and fresh fruit alongside coffee or tea (just bring your own bottle for water refills), plus stories and reef education from experienced Master Reef Guides before heading back relaxed and sandy-footed.