Visit Townsville for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere and easy access to the natural attractions of northern Queensland.
Start your visit by getting a bird’s-eye perspective of Townsville and its surrounds from Castle Hill, the pink granite monolith rising 938 feet (286 metres) from the heart of the city.
Back in the city centre and take a walk along The Strand, a 1.3-mile (2.2-kilometre) promenade. Here, you can enjoy views of the ocean, find grassy spots for picnics,or visit some of the popular cafés and restaurants. If you need to cool off, take a dip at the Strand Beach, a great spot for swimmers of all ages. This beach has calm water as it is sheltered by Magnetic Island, which lies just 5 miles (8 kilometres) off shore. Maggie, as locals call the island, is nearly 70 percent national park and is just 25 minutes away from Townsville by fast passenger ferry service. There’s also a car ferry service to the island.
Explore more of the surrounding marine environment during a diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef or the wreck of the Yongala passenger ship. You’ll find several diving companies around town, with most offering packages for novices and pros alike. To see what’s under the waves without getting wet, visit Reef HQ, one of the world’s largest living reef aquariums. It has shows and presentations, including Turtle Talk during which you can visit the aquarium’s turtle hospital.
Take in some local history at the Museum of Tropical Queensland and the National Trust Heritage Centre. Military history enthusiasts will want to visit the Army Museum of North Queensland and the Royal Australian Air Force Townsville Museum.
Townsville is the gateway to northern Queensland. You can reach it by plane, bus or train from Brisbane and Cairns. Once in the city, get around using the public bus service, Sunbus, or taxis. Consider renting a car if you plan to explore the surrounding attractions, such as the longest single-drop waterfall in Australia, located in the Girringun National Park.
Townsville
Townsville Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Townsville
North Ward
North Ward is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to The Strand Beach and Strand Park while you're in town.
South Townsville
Visitors highly recommend South Townsville for its abundant dining options, and you can make a stop by Maritime Museum of Townsville while you're in town.
Kirwan
If you're spending some time in Kirwan, 1300SMILES Stadium and Aboriginal Reserve are top sights worth seeing.
Annandale
If you're spending some time in Annandale, Murray Sporting Complex and Townsville Palmetum are top sights worth seeing.
Railway Estate
While visiting Railway Estate, you might make a stop by sights like Townsville 400 Racetrack Start / Finish line and Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
West End
Travellers like the historical sites in West End, and Castle Hill is a top attraction you might want to visit.
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Popular places to visit
Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal
This easy-to-navigate and very scenic transport hub is the gateway to the beaches, bush walks and wildlife of one of Queensland’s most idyllic islands.
Castle Hill
Catch the sea breezes on this pink granite landmark in the city’s heart and enjoy 360-degree views of the city’s harbor and across to Magnetic Island.
The Strand Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at The Strand Beach during your travels in The Strand? While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Strand Park
Explore the great outdoors at Strand Park, a lovely green space in The Strand. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its charming cafes.
Museum of Tropical Queensland
Set out on a discovery tour of the cultural and natural heritage of North Queensland in this interactive waterfront museum with ever-changing exhibits.
Queens Gardens
Walk beneath ancient hoop pines, navigate a maze, see the Australian cockatoos or have a picnic in the lush setting of these tropical gardens.