THINGS TO SEE AND DO - TOWNSVILLE
Townsville is a vibrant coastal city in North Queensland that offers a blend of nature, culture, and outdoor adventure—making it an ideal holiday destination for all kinds of travellers. Magnetic Island Just a short 20-minute ferry ride from the city, Magnetic Island is a local favourite. With 23 beaches, walking trails through national park, and plenty of wildlife including koalas and rock wallabies, it’s perfect for day trips or overnight stays. Castle Hill Rising above the city, Castle Hill provides sweeping views over Townsville and out to the Coral Sea. You can drive to the top or take on the popular walking tracks that wind around the hill—ideal for sunrise or sunset. The Strand This scenic beachfront promenade stretches along the coastline and is perfect for walking, swimming, or relaxing. It features cafes, playgrounds, and water parks, making it especially popular with families. Billabong Sanctuary Located just south of the city, Billabong Sanctuary is a great way to see native Australian animals up close. You can feed kangaroos, hold a koala, and learn about crocodiles in a relaxed, natural setting. Museum of Tropical Queensland This modern museum offers interactive exhibits focusing on North Queensland’s natural history and maritime heritage, including artefacts from the HMS Pandora shipwreck. Flinders Street and City Lane Townsville’s central hub is home to shopping, local eateries, laneway bars, and weekend markets. It’s a great place to enjoy live music, grab a bite to eat, or explore local businesses. Whether you're chasing adventure, keen to relax by the water, or wanting to explore North Queensland's culture and history, Townsville has something for everyone.
The Strand Water Park
The Strand Water Park is ever popular with families with kids. Kids will have a blast cooling off in the water park, with slides, water cannons and much more to enjoy. Facilities Children’s water park Junior children’s playground Toilets (male, female and disabled access) BBQ/picnic facilities Outdoor showers Parking available along The Strand promenade (including four (4) disabled parking bays)
The Strand
The Strand is a 2.2km world-class beachfront promenade custom-built for enjoyment. Along this palm tree lined stretch are bike and walkway paths, safe swimming beaches, picturesque picnic spots, playgrounds, exercise stations, a water park and restaurants and bars with to-die-for water views.
Castle Hill
Just metres short of a mountain, Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that stands proud in the centre of Townsville - a perfect place for visitors to orientate themselves. Castle Hill offers vehicle access as well as a number of popular walking tracks, which are frequented by more than 2,500 locals a day! The 360-degree views of Townsville at the top are well worth the journey. Be sure to have a camera on hand, particularly for sunrise or sunset as these are photo opportunities that shouldn't be missed.
Queensland Country Bank Stadium
North Queensland Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium primarily used for rugby league, located in Railway Estate, a suburb of Townsville, Queensland, Australia. It is the home ground of the North Queensland Cowboys of the National Rugby League competition.
Queensland Museum Tropics
The Townsville Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s history through a wide range of exhibits. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and equipment that showcase life in Townsville from the 1800s to today. It’s an engaging place to learn about the region’s cultural, technological, and social heritage.
Big and Little Crystal Creek (Paluma Range National Park)
About an hour’s drive from Central Holborn, Big and Little Crystal Creek in Paluma Range National Park offer beautiful natural spots to relax and explore. Big Crystal Creek features the popular Paradise Waterhole, perfect for swimming and picnics surrounded by lush rainforest. Little Crystal Creek is known for its historic stone bridge and peaceful waterfalls with clear swimming holes. Both spots have picnic facilities and provide a refreshing escape into nature just outside Townsville.