Townsville is one of Queensland's major cities and a place that is often overlooked. In reality, Townsville is a place that’s easy on the eye and with plenty going on. It’s home to an endless esplanade, with attractive views out to sea and some stunning islands only a short ferry ride away. What’s more, the city is also pedestrian friendly, which means it can be explored easily on foot. The city is home to one of the best aquariums in Australia, as well as meticulously restored 19th-century buildings that exude charm.
One of the must-dos when in town involves joining the masses of people climbing up Castle Hill, the heritage-listed red granite monolith that dominates the city. A climb to the top offers stunning views of the surrounding coast and islands. After descending, why not take a walk along The Strand, Townsville’s waterfront promenade complete with incredible views of the Coral Sea.
Townsville’s Riverway complex offers varied recreational facilities for all ages, including a swimming lagoon with a toddlers pool, as well as an arts centre and boardwalk. To learn about the cultural and natural heritage of Townsville and Queensland, head for the Museum of Tropical Queensland. Here you’ll encounter all manner of things, including the remains of the sunken British warship, HMS Pandora, which sank in 1791. It’s one of the most significant shipwrecks in the southern hemisphere.
If you fancy getting up close and personal with some local native wildlife, here to the Billabong Sanctuary where you can cuddle a koala, hold a wombat, and stroll among the kangaroos and wallabies.
Aside from the surrounding natural beauty, Townsville is also home to a lively, youthful population, with thousands of students, members of the armed forces, fly-in-fly-out mine workers, and backpackers. All of these people, combined with Townsville’s 320 days of sunshine per year creates an energetic atmosphere and boisterous nightlife.
If you’re looking to explore all that Queensland has to offer, Townsville is the perfect launch pad. Scenic delights abound in this sunshine-soaked coastal city, from the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to idyllic beaches and lush national parks. Visitors will find much to enjoy in the city itself, with beachside cafes, laneway dining and boutique shops all within easy strolling distance.
With so much to see and do, you’ll want to pack in all you can during your stay. The Strand Night Markets are held on the first Friday of the month – take the family and enjoy the wide range of stalls, including gourmet food and live entertainment.
Townsville is close to a number of spectacular islands. Magnetic Island is a 20-minute ferry ride away, or you can take a short helicopter flight to Orpheus Island, a stunning national park. For the big kids, Magnetic Island’s Full Moon Down Under is sure to be a night to remember. The popular monthly beach party runs from July-January.
Hire a rental car from Hertz and set out to explore Townsville at your own pace.
