Bunbury isn’t just about pretty beaches and laid-back charm; it’s a hub for memorable tours and experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re eager to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat, indulge in local wines, or explore the city’s historic sites on foot, Bunbury offers something real and engaging. One of our favorite options is the Koombana Bay Dolphin Eco Cruise, which gets you up close to Bottlenose dolphins without getting wet — perfect for families or those who prefer a relaxed day on the water. The marine life viewing opportunities here are second to none, with wild dolphins playing, hunting, and socializing in calm waters.
Bunbury’s great for outdoor lovers and curious explorers alike. The city’s varied tours—from scenic runs and historic walks to immersive wine and food tours—highlight its natural beauty and local culture. Whether joining a guided dolphin eco-cruise, exploring the Ferguson Valley’s wines, or discovering Bunbury’s historic landmarks, each experience offers a genuine taste of what makes Bunbury unique.
Quick Overview
Our list covers diverse tours and experiences including eco cruises, walking runs, wine and food tours, and marine encounters. For a close-up with dolphins, the Dolphin Eco-Cruise and Swim With Dolphins stand out for their natural encounters. History buffs will enjoy the Leschenault Inlet walk, while wine lovers should consider the Geographe Wine Region Tour. For outdoor activity seekers, the 10km Running Tour and the Forest, Wine, and Brewery Tour offer active ways to explore.
- Quick Overview
- 1. Koombana Bay: Dolphin Eco Cruise
- 2. Guided Dolphin Eco-Cruise in Koombana Bay
- 3. Historic Leschenault Inlet & Dolphin Sundowner Run – 5K ish
- 4. Marine Discovery Centre
- 5. Discover Bunbury Geographe and Harvey Region
- 6. Swim With The Dolphins Experience in Bunbury Australia
- 7. Bunbury: Swim with Dolphins Tour
- 8. Bunbury Geographe Forest, Wine and Brewery Tour
- 9. Geographe Wine Region Tour
- 10. Port and Dolphin Cruise Bunbury Tour
- 11. Spoken Streets 10km Running Tour of Bunbury
- How to Choose the Right Bunbury Tour for You
- Final thoughts
1. Koombana Bay: Dolphin Eco Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the Koombana Bay Dolphin Eco Cruise, which earns a 4.6/5 rating from 124 reviews. This 1.5-hour cruise takes you on a gentle tour within Koombana Bay, designed to bring you as close as possible to wild bottlenose dolphins without getting wet. It’s a perfect outing if you want to see these playful creatures in their natural environment—watching them hunt, socialize, and sometimes even sleep.
What makes this tour special is the combination of marine life education and relaxed sightseeing. The vessel is crafted to maximize dolphin sightings, and guides share insights about their behavior and lives, making it both fun and informative. Meeting point is at the Dolphin Discovery Centre, with check-in at the customer service desk. This tour is wheelchair accessible, and you’re advised to bring warm clothing, sunscreen, and a camera. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.
Bottom line: If you want a reliable, family-friendly dolphin experience with scenic views, this cruise hits the mark for its close encounters and knowledgeable guides.
2. Guided Dolphin Eco-Cruise in Koombana Bay
Holding a perfect 5.0/5 from 36 reviews, the Guided Dolphin Eco-Cruise offers a shorter, more intimate encounter—around 75 minutes—that’s ideal for those wanting a quick but meaningful dolphin experience. This tour guarantees sightings of residential bottlenose dolphins, and if no dolphins are spotted, you can go again for free, emphasizing the tour’s confidence in its success.
Led by a licensed, eco-certified operator, this tour focuses on observing natural dolphin behavior such as feeding, hunting, or socializing, with plenty of close-up moments. The guide’s commentary is friendly and highly knowledgeable, adding depth to the experience. Price-wise, it’s very accessible at around $46.62 per person, making it a manageable addition to your Bunbury itinerary. Many reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the abundance of dolphins seen, and the tour’s small group setting keeps it personal.
Bottom line: For an affordable, confident, and eco-conscious dolphin watch, this tour offers a brief but high-quality experience perfect for families and small groups.
3. Historic Leschenault Inlet & Dolphin Sundowner Run – 5K ish
Number 3 is the Leschenault Inlet & Dolphin Sundowner Run, which combines a scenic 5K run with storytelling and local history, rated 5.0/5 from 10 reviews. This unique experience offers both exercise and education, starting at the inlet and moving through areas rich in stories, including the shipwreck history and natural landmarks.
Highlights include running along the Mangrove Boardwalk and enjoying views of Koombana Bay, all with a local guide who shares fascinating insights about Bunbury’s past. The tour concludes with evening refreshments at The Parade Hotel, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect. The route is manageable for most fitness levels, and the small-group format ensures a personal experience.
Bottom line: If you appreciate combining a light workout with storytelling and scenic views, this tour delivers a relaxed, informative experience perfect for active travelers.
4. Marine Discovery Centre
The Marine Discovery Centre is Australia’s only dolphin-dedicated facility, rated 4.3/5 from 38 reviews. It offers a full day of engaging marine wildlife education, including 14 aquaria, live feeding sessions, a 360-degree cinema, and interactive exhibits. This experience is ideal for families, school groups, or anyone wanting a comprehensive look into local aquatic life without getting wet.
What sets it apart is its focus on educational content about dolphins and marine ecosystems, plus its accessibility for all ages and physical abilities. Visitors can explore the discovery pool, watch 3D and 2D movies, and learn about indigenous history linked to the sea. It’s a great indoor alternative if weather hampers boat trips or simply if you prefer a more hands-on educational experience.
Bottom line: For those with children or anyone interested in marine life, this centre offers a full day of learning and discovery in a relaxed, interactive setting.
5. Discover Bunbury Geographe and Harvey Region
Our number 5 spot, the Discover Bunbury Geographe and Harvey region, ranks high for its well-rounded, full-day experience at $143.45 per person. It combines visits to boutique wineries, local cheese farms, and historic sites, making it ideal for food and history enthusiasts.
Highlights include touring Henton Cottage, the Harvey River Estate vineyards, and sampling local wines and cheeses. The tour also features a stop at Gnomesville, with over 5,000 gnomes creating a whimsical scene. The itinerary balances cultural and culinary experiences**, with admission included at key stops and a scenic drive through lush countryside. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of the region’s food, drink, and history in just one day, with excellent value for the multiple tastings and visits.
6. Swim With The Dolphins Experience in Bunbury Australia
For around $99.64, the Swim With The Dolphins Experience promises a 4-hour encounter face-to-face with wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment. Rated 4.5/5 from 22 reviews, this tour is perfect for those eager to swim alongside playful dolphins.
Led by marine biologists, the tour offers opportunities to see dolphins hunting, socializing, and even calves with their mothers. The guide shares insights into dolphin behavior, adding educational value. You’ll need to bring swimwear, towels, and waterproof gear. The experience is designed for comfort and safety, with a focus on eco-friendly interaction.
Bottom line: For anyone wanting an immersive, active experience swimming with wild dolphins, this tour delivers on both excitement and education, especially suited for confident swimmers.
7. Bunbury: Swim with Dolphins Tour
The Bunbury Swim with Dolphins offers a 4-hour guided eco-tour for those ready to snorkel and swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. With a 4.2/5 rating and a focus on wild bottlenose dolphins, this experience emphasizes eco-consciousness and personal interaction.
Starting at the Dolphin Discovery Centre, the tour combines boat trips, snorkeling, and marine life education. It’s suitable for swimmers comfortable in the water, and children over 8 are welcome. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge help make the encounter memorable. The itinerary includes observing dolphins feeding, playing, and socializing, with a chance for plenty of close-up wildlife viewing.
Bottom line: This activity suits adventurous travelers wanting a hands-on, eco-friendly dolphin encounter in a guided, small-group setting.
8. Bunbury Geographe Forest, Wine and Brewery Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from 1 review, the Forest, Wine, and Brewery Tour is a 6.5-hour deep dive into Ferguson Valley’s flavors and scenery. It’s ideal for those looking to combine nature and gastronomy in a leisurely day.
Highlights include visiting Gnomesville with thousands of gnomes, sampling wines and cheeses at local farms, and visiting a brewery and distillery. The trip takes you through Wellington National Park, showcasing its biggest mural and lush forests. With a maximum of 8 travelers, it offers a personalized experience and plenty of tasting opportunities at each stop.
Bottom line: Best suited for actively curious travelers who want an all-in-one day of wine, beer, cheese, and scenery with a small-group vibe.
9. Geographe Wine Region Tour
The Geographe Wine Region Tour is perfect for wine connoisseurs, rated 5.0/5 from five reviews. For around $157.79, this 4.5-hour tour explores boutique wineries like Green Door Wines and Talisman Wines, with a flexible itinerary that travelers can customize.
It features tasting sessions at multiple wineries, offering a chance to try local varietals like Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The tour includes a shared platter lunch and hotel pickup if needed, making it convenient. The focus is on personalized wine experiences with knowledgeable guides ensuring you get the most out of each stop.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a tailored, relaxed wine tasting day in a scenic region, with options to include local breweries.
10. Port and Dolphin Cruise Bunbury Tour
Rated the lowest at 1.0/5 from a single review, the Port and Dolphin Cruise is a one-hour boat ride that combines a visit to Bunbury’s busy port with wildlife spotting, including wild dolphins.
This tour provides a lively look at Bunbury’s working harbor, with opportunities to see cargo ships and marine life. It’s a quick, inexpensive option if you’re interested in both port activity and dolphin sightings, although the limited reviews suggest checking current availability and quality before booking.
Bottom line: Suitable for those seeking a quick, inexpensive harbor tour with some dolphin viewing but may require caution regarding reviews.
11. Spoken Streets 10km Running Tour of Bunbury
Finally, for the active traveler, the Spoken Streets 10km Running Tour offers a way to explore Bunbury’s famous waters while getting in some exercise. This 2-2.5 hour route takes you through key sites like the Mangrove Boardwalk and Jetty Baths, with stops for stories and photos. It’s perfect for those who want to combine fitness with cultural discovery.
The route includes climbs and varied terrain, making it suitable for active travelers comfortable with a bit of a challenge. It’s a cost-effective way to see the city from a different perspective, with the added bonus of local storytelling.
Bottom line: Best for energetic explorers eager to combine sightseeing and exercise, with plenty of opportunities to learn about Bunbury’s waters and history.
How to Choose the Right Bunbury Tour for You
Selecting from these diverse options depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If wildlife encounters are your priority, the Dolphin Eco-Cruise or Swim With Dolphins are excellent picks. For those interested in local wines and food, the Geographe Wine Region Tour offers a relaxed tasting experience, while the Forest, Wine, and Brewery Tour combines scenic nature and drinks in one day.
History and scenic walks are well covered with the Leschenault Inlet run, and active travelers can enjoy the 10km Running Tour. Budget-conscious visitors might prefer the shorter eco cruises or harbor tours, but if you’re planning a full-day adventure, the regional wine and food tours offer great value with multiple stops.
Book early, especially for the popular dolphin encounters and wine tours, to secure your preferred time slot. Consider the weather—many trips are best in clear conditions—and always check the cancellation policy in case plans change.
Final thoughts
Bunbury’s variety of tours ensures there’s something for every traveler. For wildlife lovers, the dolphin cruises stand out as top choices, while those interested in food, wine, and scenic landscapes will find plenty to enjoy. Active visitors will appreciate the running tours, and families can explore the Marine Discovery Centre.
No matter your preference, Bunbury offers authentic, engaging experiences that showcase its natural beauty and local charm. To get the most out of your visit, consider booking your tours early and picking activities that match your interests and energy levels. With the right planning, your Bunbury adventure will be memorable and satisfying.