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Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine each year and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, there’s no shortage of things to do in Townsville, North Queensland.
From the underwater spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef to the vast landscapes of the outback and lush tropical rainforest, a world of whimsy awaits to intrigue and enchant.
Townsville North Queensland is the home of regional Australia’s best live events. From the roar of the Supercars Townsville 500 to the excitement of the Magnetic Island Race Week to the vibrant Northern Australian Festival of Arts, Townsville is the place to experience world-class events in the most jaw-dropping of settings.
Locked in your Ville vaycay? Here’s a handy guide of some of the best things to do once you’ve checked in and soaked in that view.
Stretching 2.2km along the coastline, The Strand is Townsville’s iconic beachfront promenade — a vibrant hub of palm-lined pathways, safe swimming beaches, waterfront dining, playgrounds and the much-loved Strand Water Park. Whether you’re jogging at sunrise, relaxing by the water or soaking up the views across to Magnetic Island, The Strand offers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation for all ages.
Get up close with Australia’s iconic native wildlife at Billabong Sanctuary, just outside Townsville. Interactive shows, feeding experiences, and ranger-led talks create unforgettable encounters, while the sanctuary’s strong commitment to animal welfare ensures a responsible, educational experience. Recognised by Australian Traveller as one of the top things to do in Townsville, Billabong Sanctuary is an award-winning destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
SeaLink North Queensland is the islands connecting passenger ferry, making 17 daily trips in 20 minutes on their high-speed catamarans. The Breakwater Terminal in Townsville has a car park for a daily fee. SeaLink is easily accessible by car, taxi, Uber, bus, or Townsville City Shuttle.
Magnetic Island Ferries is the island’s only vehicle barge, meaning you can bring your car to the island on their eight departing daily services. The trip on the barge takes roughly 40 minutes, and there is the option to be a walk-on passenger. The Townsville terminal has a secure car park for a daily fee. To get to the Townsville terminal, you will need to drive a taxi or Uber.
Located just 8km offshore from Townsville, Magnetic Island is home to over 20 bays and beaches, extensive walking trails and one of Northern Australia’s largest wild koala populations. With more than half of the island protected as national park, Magnetic Island offers a diverse mix of natural beauty, coastal recreation and accessible island experiences just a short ferry ride from the mainland.
Located just steps from the CBD, Breakwater Marina offers a secure and welcoming base for cruising travellers visiting Townsville. With 325 berths for vessels up to 45m, flexible short and long-term stays, a 24-hour fuel wharf and convenient marina facilities, it provides everything needed to experience the North Queensland lifestyle with ease.
Located on the waterfront in Townsville, Queensland Museum Tropics showcases the natural and cultural heritage of North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef region. The museum features permanent and touring exhibitions, including displays on tropical ecosystems, marine science and the HMS Pandora shipwreck, offering an educational and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Located on Ross Creek in Townsville, the Maritime Museum of Townsville explores the region’s rich seafaring history through engaging exhibits and preserved vessels. The museum showcases stories of North Queensland’s naval, commercial and coastal heritage, offering visitors an insight into the city’s longstanding connection to the sea.
Located in the rural outskirts of Townsville, Texas Longhorn Tours offers guided experiences on a working cattle property, home to one of Australia’s largest herds of Texas Longhorn cattle. Visitors can learn about the history of the breed, station life and outback heritage while enjoying an authentic North Queensland farm experience.
Tour Townsville offers guided sightseeing experiences showcasing the highlights of Townsville and its surrounding region. From local history and iconic landmarks to scenic coastal views, the tours provide visitors with an informative and convenient way to explore the city and discover its unique North Queensland character.
Aquascene Charters operates from Townsville, offering guided marine tours and snorkelling adventures on the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding waters. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter tropical marine life, and enjoy an immersive reef experience led by knowledgeable local guides.
Showcasing Townsville City, Cape Cleveland and beautiful Magnetic Island to the jewel-like archipelago of the Palm Island Group and magnificent Hinchinbrook Island, our range of helicopter scenic flights in the Townsville region will take your breath away – experience the difference with Nautilus Aviation.
