Affectionately dubbed the “unofficial capital of Northern Queensland”, Townsville is a vibrant hub for the area. The local military population and huge waves of tourists means this is a city accustomed to catering to transients – it’s set up to be very accessible to newcomers, so it’s very easy to feel at home here. Enjoy the tropical vibes and get ready for some adventure when you visit Townsville. A local hub for plenty of attractions, you’ll want to get your hire car sorted fast so you can waste no time beginning to explore it all.
Beautiful billabong
Just 17 kilometres south of Townsville you will find the Billabong Sanctuary, a wildlife park that concentrates on rehabilitation and conservation for a wide range of Australian animals. You can hand-feed kangaroos here, along with koala and wombat cuddling for some holiday snaps that are sure to raise a few eyebrows. They also have crocodiles and an extensive collection of reptiles to learn more about too. There are animal shows throughout the day which give you a chance to see the keepers hard at work feeding and looking after all the delightful creatures housed here. The small family-run vibe of the place will have you feeling at ease immediately.
Tropical Museum Adventures
The Museum of Tropical Queensland is an intriguing place to visit with a wide range of exhibits sure to pique your interest. With a strong focus on Natural History, the museum showcases its enormous collection of taxidermy and skeletons. The museum’s activities are very friendly family with an exciting program, especially during School Holidays, so your little budding naturalists will be very well entertained here.
Under the Sea
While many visitors to Townsville use the city as the launchpad to begin their explorations of the Great Barrier Reef, You don't have to go out to sea to make marine discoveries here. At the ReefHQ Aquarium you will find over 100 types of coral, fish, sea urchins and other marine life to explore. This is the world’s largest living coral aquarium, featuring many of the corals native to the Great Barrier Reef, so it is a fantastic way learn more about them.
King of the Castle
Castle Hill is a Heritage listed pink granite monolith, which really has to be seen to be believed. Soaring 286 metres above sea line it dominates the skyline of Townsville and it is one of the most distinctive features of this area. On it there are a number of amazing lookouts, bushwalks and other activities to enjoy. Hop in your Hertz hire car and enjoy the winding road to the top of the hill, or for a more athletic challenge take on the “Goat Track” - a 758 stair climb that is sure to test your stamina.
