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Top things to do in Townsville

Attractions, tours and activities in Townsville

About Townsville

Including tips for the best time to visit Townsville

Located in the state of Queensland, Townsville is a coastal city adjacent to the centre of the Great Barrier Reef. Peppered with islands, rainforests and national parks, it is home to plenty of indigenous marine life and wildlife – from corals to koalas.

A few miles off the coast of Townsville lies Magnetic Island, a little piece of unspoilt land with peaceful beaches, hiking trails and a national park. This is a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving amidst the colourful fish, sea turtles and historic shipwrecks of the Great Barrier Reef. If you’d rather stay dry, you can opt for a sunset sail around the island. Back in town, the Strand is a seaside promenade that offers picturesque beaches, a water park and sweeping views over the bright blue Coral Sea.

For an introduction to Australia’s most adored residents, make some time to visit the Billabong Sanctuary in Townsville. Here, you can feed kangaroos, hug koala bears and catch an interactive show or two. Marine life enthusiasts should head to the Reef HQ Aquarium – the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium. For a more relaxed experience, you can take a scenic stroll along Riverway, an 11-kilometre stretch along Ross River that boasts emerald lagoons, lush parkland and an arts centre.

Tonight

From per night

This weekend

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Next weekend

From £192 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency AUD 10 = £5.17
Language English
Average weekend price £75 per night
Average weekday price £80 per night
Typical stay 1 night

Townsville reviews

What other travellers say about Townsville

8.0

Loved the area with friendly people everywhere.

23 January 2024

Loved the area with friendly people everywhere. Went to the Museum which my Great nephew really loved. All hands on. Went to Kirwan Bowling and had a great time with all our extended family. Also went to the Tavern and had a wonderful meal which didn't cost too much. Spent time on The Strand at the Waterpark and all the kids had a ball splashing around.

Suzanne
Suzanne Australia
8.0

It is a nice city surrounded by some rainforest, farmland...

18 January 2024

It is a nice city surrounded by some rainforest, farmland and bush. Lots to see and do. I loved the museums. I loved the botanical gardens; the hill overlooking Townsville is five minutes drive away from the hotel and you can drive or walk up it. The esplanade is worth the walk. Lots of places eat and drink along it.

Banks
Banks
8.0

Townsville is a relaxed, growing city with good restaurants...

28 November 2023

Townsville is a relaxed, growing city with good restaurants in Palmer Street and along the Strand. Easy to get around and always peaceful on the water front. Magnetic Island is a quick ferry ride away.

joanne
joanne Australia
10

Beautiful town, friendly people, stunning views and amazing...

20 October 2023

Beautiful town, friendly people, stunning views and amazing beaches. So much to see and do in the area and just didn’t have enough time to do them all, definitely making another trip as soon as I can.

Emma
Emma Australia
8.0

I live in the area and I feel it has a lot to offer by way...

10 October 2023

I live in the area and I feel it has a lot to offer by way of sun and beaches or beautiful rain forest with gorgeous fresh clean cool sometimes cold running waters at your fingertips to enjoy . Shopping and night life at bars cinema cafe restaurants or theatre, your choice . Also NRL football stadium

Colleen
Colleen Australia
8.0

A good tip for a stay in Townsville is to try and stay...

14 September 2023

A good tip for a stay in Townsville is to try and stay around The Strand, even if a business traveller, if you have a car. If you're a tourist wanting to chill out you don't really need a car. It's a couple of klms out of the City but it has everything you need and is pleasant with the sea close by and a walkway for walking, runners and even dogs are very well catered for! (Drinking bowls, walkies and cafes accept them). Lots of restaurants and cafes. However, try to stay at the City end of the Strand if you aren't a great walker or if you have difficulty with mobility. Having said that, the walkway along the sea (from one end of The Strand to the other) is flat and OK for wheelchairs I would think.

Christine
Christine New Zealand

Popular places to stay in Townsville

Stay in some of the best accommodation Townsville has to offer