Townsville city

Explore Townsville City: Your Gateway to Adventure

Welcome to Townsville City, the vibrant heart of North Queensland and a premier destination for visitors seeking a mix of urban charm and spectacular natural excursions such as the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef and the rainforests behind the city. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast, Townsville City offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit every taste.

Uncover the Magic of Townsville City

Townsville City, perched on the edge of the Coral Sea, serves as the perfect base for exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the enchanting Magnetic Island, easily accessible via a short, scenic ferry ride or a day tour. As the largest urban centre near the Central Section of the Reef, Townsville provides unique opportunities to explore tropical islands, marine biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage.

Things To Do in Townsville City

• Helicopter Rides: Take to the skies with breathtaking helicopter rides offering panoramic views of the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island, and the picturesque North Queensland coast. This is a must-do so you may see the reef from above and below the water’s surface.
• Scenic Flights to Magnetic Island: Embark on a scenic helicopter flight to Magnetic Island for stunning aerial views of this lush tropical paradise. These flights provide a unique perspective of the island’s rugged coastline and secluded bays. Land on the island and have a look around before returning to Townsville.
• Diving Adventures: Dive into the deep blue to explore historic shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs around Townsville. The renowned SS Yongala wreck is a highlight, offering one of the best wreck dives in the world.
• Sailing and Charter Boats: Set sail from Townsville City to discover remote islands and secluded beaches. Choose from luxury yacht charters, catamarans, or traditional sailing boats for a custom sea adventure.
• Museum of Tropical Queensland: This museum is a treasure trove of information about the region’s natural and human history, including artifacts from the famous HMS Pandora.
• The Strand: This sweeping beachfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk, with stunning views, cool sea breezes, and plenty of cafes to unwind in.
• Castle Hill: Offering sweeping 360-degree views of Townsville and beyond, a hike or drive-up Castle Hill is a perfect way to watch the sunrise or sunset over the city.
• Museum of Underwater Art: A unique underwater attractions blending art with marine conservation awareness. Perfect for both snorkellers and scuba divers. Fondly called MOUA.
• Townsville Cultural Festivals: Participate in vibrant local festivals celebrating everything from the arts to the rich Indigenous heritage of the region

Best Time to Visit

Townsville City’s sunny weather almost year-round makes it an ideal destination at any time. However, the winter months of May through September offer cooler temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions.

How to Get There

Townsville City is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Townsville Airport offers frequent flights to and from major Australian cities, making it a convenient gateway for domestic and international travellers. The city is also a pivotal stop on the Queensland Rail network and easily accessible via the Bruce Highway. 

Townsville is located about 350 kilometers (approximately 217 miles) south of Cairns. This distance is typically covered by a 4 to 5-hour drive via the Bruce Highway, or about an hour by flight.

From Townsville to the Whitsundays, the distance is around 270 kilometers (about 168 miles) to the south. This journey can take approximately 3 to 4 hours by car, also via the Bruce Highway. If you're planning to travel to the islands of the Whitsundays, additional travel by boat from places like Airlie Beach will be necessary. Or fly into Hamilton Island airport.