Townsville

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Townsville

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Townsville is a popular destination for sun seekers and provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. Situated in the dry tropical region, Townsville serves as a gateway to the Outback, wet tropical rainforests, and wetlands teeming with birdlife. A number of tropical islands can be easily reached from Townsville. Boasting a 2.2-kilometre beachfront area known as The Strand, it is an exciting and vibrant city to visit.

The City

Townsville is a city on the north-eastern coast of Queensland. It is Australia's largest urban centre north of the Sunshine Coast and is considered the unofficial capital of North Queensland by locals. Townsville City takes its name from Robert Towns, a merchant and businessman who was a pioneer financial supporter of pastoral development around the Ross River area. The central business district (CBD) is a strip of land along Ross Creek at its mouth at the Coral Sea. It is overlooked to the west by Castle Hill, a popular tourist attraction. The CBD offers a vast array of world-class bars, restaurants, hotels, and shops. It also houses the world-renowned Reef HQ Aquarium — the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium, currently closed for renovation until 2026. Townsville City is located in the traditional Wulgurukaba Aboriginal country.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

There is plenty to do and see in and around Townsville. The tropical climate is perfect for numerous water-based activities, such as the free water park and swimming pools. The wreck of the SS Yongala, just off the Queensland coast and measuring more than 100 metres, has been labelled one of the world’s top 10 diving sites. Additionally, just 135 kilometres to the southwest is Charters Towers, a living history site established during the gold trade in the late 1800s, which today contains a number of superb historic buildings. For families and nature lovers, there is Billabong Sanctuary, home to wombats and koalas. Culture is catered for with several art galleries and the Townsville Heritage Centre in the West End.

The Strand

Townsville’s beachfront promenade is a 2.2-kilometre stretch of parkland dotted with barbecue and picnic areas, exercise facilities and restaurants — offering fun for the whole family. The free water park delights adults and children alike. With its beautiful views the spot is also a great choice for a romantic stroll. At the northern end of …

Mount Stuart

The amazing views from Mount Stuart's lookout point stretch over Townsville all the way to Magnetic Island. This point above the clouds can be accessed via Mount Stuart Road from Stuart Drive in Roseneath. Mount Stuart is a popular outdoor recreational area, including trail running, mountain biking and rock …

Queensland Museum Tropics

Queensland Museum Tropics holds information about natural history, archaeology and history. At this museum, local history is put in a global context with world-class artefacts and replicas. Learn about the Mutiny on the Bounty, the story of the Pandora, the efforts of the Royal Navy to recover the 'pirated' ship and bring the mutineers to …

Cape Pallarenda

The Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park is a 44-hectare protected conservation park 10 kilometres northeast of Townsville. The park offers 15 walking and mountain biking trails of varying lengths and difficulty, fishing and boating, bird watching and shell collecting. Cape Pallarenda was a strategic defence location in World War II and structures from that era …

Alligator Creek

Bowling Green Bay National Park is home to Alligator Creek, which flows between Mount Elliot and Saddle Mountain. The lookout spot and bathing area are located about 5 kilometres along Alligator Creek Road. For a more active day and a more private bathing experience, hike into Alligator Creek falls. Be sure to bring plenty …

Street Art Trail

Townsville Street Art Trail takes you through 15 works of art hidden in alleys, laneways and on warehouse walls. Head into the city centre for the biggest concentration of murals. The oldest and most well-known piece of guerrilla street art is the ‘Saint’ on Castle Hill — painted in the 1970s in the early hours …

Magnetic Island

Escape to a tropical island, nearby Magnetic (or “Maggie” to locals). The island offers a wide range of activities for a perfect day off. Hop on the ferry and spend the day swimming, sun bathing or just relaxing at one of the many beautiful bays or beaches on Magnetic …

Great Barrier Reef

Discover the magical colours of the tropical marine fish and coral of the Great Barrier Reef. Departing from Townsville, it takes only 2 hours to get there. A full day adventure takes you to the crystal clear waters and includes snorkelling, glass bottom boat tours, a marine biology presentation and a scrumptious buffet lunch. There …

Townsville Heritage Centre

The National Trust of Australia Heritage Centre consists of three quaint Queensland houses dating from the last 150 years. All are furnished in the fashion of the period when they were built. The collection of preserved materials from the past, as well as the annual Heritage festival, present an interesting part of local history …

Billabong Sanctuary

Crocodiles, snakes, wombats, and koalas call Billabong Sanctuary their home just 17 kilometres south of Townsville. The sanctuary offers a chance to experience reptile handling shows, wombat and koala petting and a dip in a resort-sized pool. Explore the diverse fauna and take a picture with these unique …

Charters Towers

Just a 90-minute drive from Townsville lies a spot where in 1871 gold was discovered by an Aboriginal boy named Jupiter. Today, the town called Charters Towers has 10,000 inhabitants and has some beautifully preserved 19th and early 20th century buildings from its heyday. It is well worth a visit for architecture …

Maritime Museum of Townsville

The Maritime Museum is a relatively small local museum with an eclectic collection of incredibly detailed model ships, memorabilia, artefacts, and informative displays about the seafarers' lifestyle of the past. There are lots of interesting facts to discover for adults and great fun for kids, …

Mission Beach

Mission Beach is a small coastal town about 240 kilometres north of Townsville. For visiting beach lovers, it offers a beautiful stretch of sand for all sorts of activities. Besides the obvious sunbathing, you can go skydiving or kayaking. Paddle from South Mission Beach along the coast, passing golden sandy beaches and rocky headlands. …

Castle Hill

Castle Hill, with its lookout, is a popular tourist site which offers some of the best views over the city of Townsville. You can drive up there and park at the top. From there you can continue walking or cycling for an even more amazing view over the city and the surrounding …

Paluma & Crystal Creek Rainforest

Paluma and Crystal Creek Rainforest is a hidden gem and a lovely cooling spot where you can escape the hot summer days and enjoy some tranquillity. After the hike to the creek, take a plunge into the refreshing waters, have a picnic or barbecue, and just enjoy your day in these beautiful …

Palmetum

The Palmetum in the suburb of Annandale is one of three botanical gardens of Townsville. Walk around these lovely surroundings with a rainforest feel and enjoy the tranquillity and the variety of plants from different environments, such as rain forest, lagoon, desert and much more. The park offers lots of little out of the …

Riverway

Riverway is a modern development project that offers a combination of residential, commercial, cultural, sports and leisure activities. It has two huge swimming lagoons, Pinnacles Gallery art space, the Riverwalk walking tracks, public art, a restaurant and lush green parkland. Come here with the whole family, swim in the lagoons, make yourself comfortable in …

Dining

Townsville boasts three fine dining precincts: on Palmer Street you’ll find various cuisines from Greek, Italian, Asian to French and traditional Australian. Townsville’s waterfront esplanade, the Strand offers a string of waterfront cafes with stunning views, fine restaurants, and the famous Seaview Hotel Steakhouse. Finally, Gregory Street offers fine coffee and light al fresco dining. Flinders Street also offers a range of eateries for those out to experience Townsville’s nightlife.

Masala Indian Cuisine

Everything you expect from a good Indian restaurant can be found here. The atmosphere is low-key restaurant and the wood-accented interior creates a cozy mood. Good ambience and good place for family or friend …

Cactus Jack’s

Cactus Jack’s is a Mexican restaurant which offers mouth watering starters and juicy steaks to die for. Flavourful chicken wings and crispy potatoes are also on the menu. With its huge range of imported and local beers, Cactus Jack’s is the place to …

Gyo Japanese Tapas Bar Restaurant

GYO is a Japanese tapas restaurant with a menu that ranges from small courses, such as edamame beans, to big sushi platters. The menu is well selected and includes lunch, dinner and snack options. End your meal with the tempura ice-cream is a decadent …

A Touch Of Salt

A Touch Of Salt has a spacious indoor and outdoor area for warm summer nights and cosy evenings. The menu is contemporary and eclectic, and if you have a hard time choosing what to take then ask the knowledgeable waiter, who will gladly help …

Townsville Brewing Co.

Townsville Brewing Co. is housed in the building that used to be the city's old post office and was later re-built into a brewery, restaurant and event centre. The food is varied and tasty, and the entrees, including Crispy Coconut Prawns and Beef Tataki, are some of the best in town. The beer and …

Jam Corner

Jam Corner is serves creative Modern Australian fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You are welcome to try their tasting menus served all day in a stylish setting. Seasonal fruits, seafood and meat options are all included in the menu. The outdoor seating allows you to enjoy the beautiful view over the river and …

Garden of Eating BYO

The Garden of Eating has an Australian menu where you can choose from many unique combinations of delicious meals to enjoy indoors and outdoors in a cosy backyard with fairy lights and lush greenery. The atmosphere is just as laid back and relaxing as the Australians themselves are. The guests remark that their vegan …

Rambutan

Located in the resort of the same name, Rambutan's restaurant offers a wide range of selected Mediterranean flavours and World cuisine. The rooftop setting offers plenty of seating available, and you have the privilege of enjoying the spectacular views of the Ross River and Flinders Street restaurant and nightlife …

Shop Six Pasta Bar

Shop Six Pasta Bar is a funky little restaurant on the Strand with inside and out seating. Beautiful big tree out the front with views to the ocean. The place itself looks pretty fancy but the prices are super affordable and the staff are very friendly and helpful. As can should be expected, their …

Cafes

No matter where you choose to enjoy your coffee and snack, you will not be disappointed with Townsville's great selection of cafes and bakeries. Nothing is as relaxing as sipping on a latte in this lovely atmosphere surrounded by friendly people and great weather.

C Bar

C Bar built its reputation on quality service, great coffee and food, including varied international flavours, and prime waterfront location. The two C Bars occupy a prime space in the Twin Cities. Relish the spectacular views from the bar all day …

Herveys Range Heritage Tea Rooms

If cups of tea are your cup of tea, you can always head out to the Heritage Tea Rooms — a fully restored Cobb & Co era building offering the great Aussie cuppa. The Heritage Tea Rooms offer a great taste of historical Australiana combined with the great tastes of traditional Australian …

Barefoot Art Food Wine

Good food, great art, fine wine. The owners of Barefoot merged their passions for dining and all things artistic to create a wonderful cultural mix. Located on the beachfront on Horseshoe Bay, there’s also a well-stocked art gallery for diners to peruse at their …

Odyssey on The Strand

Odyssey on The Strand is a great place to stop for a snack when you are out shopping. Ideally located on The Strand, overlooking the rock pools, this Mediterranean style cafe offers breakfast and lunch every …

Juliette's Gelateria

Juliette's Gelateria is a great place for a delicious gelato after a walk around the town. You can choose among vegetarian-friendly options and a big selection of excellent coffee. Sit outside and take in the sun and the spectacular view over the …

Coffee Dominion

Dominion is a cute boutique coffee roaster serving espresso drinks and fragrant pastries in a simple cafe with outdoor seating. The variety of espresso coffee blends, filter and plunder coffee, as well as decaffeinated coffee guarantees that every single whim of yours will be satisfied by the skilled …

Vitti Cafe on Gregory

Vitti Cafe on Gregory is a place where you can taste quality coffee or a delicious homemade cake in a pleasant atmosphere. The breakfast and lunch meals come with healthy vegetables like avocado, tomatoes and potatoes. …

Hoi Polloi Cafe

Contrary to what its name suggests, Hoi Polloi Cafe stands out of the crowd. The concept of being is quite non-standard character-full. Drop in and you might just catch a nonchalant Jazz jam, cute latte art, and orange dinosaur, and definitely lots of wall and street …

Born Wild Wholefoods + Espresso

Drop by Born Wild Wholefoods + Espresso and get a reviving smoothie for a more energized morning. For all who want to start their day with coffee, check out the menu and find your perfect coffee match. The cafe also serves freshly cooked food, as avocado on toast, chicken schnitzel and lamb, and the …

Bars & Nightlife

Being the largest tropical city in Australia, Townsville tends to be very laid back, but don’t let that fool you as there is a hot music scene, as well as plenty of clubs and places where you can dance till dawn. Home to a large student and army population, Townsville’s largest contingent of night spots is found on Flinders Street East.

Heritage Exchange

Heritage Exchange is a trendy bar which is very popular among locals, and it is ideal for late-nighters. The party here starts in the late afternoon and it continues all night long. The good food, the great drinks and the nice music promise a high quality …

Townsville Brewery

Townsville Brewery is an internationally recognised, award winning brewery producing and distributing eight brands of beer and six alco-pops. Some of the best beer brands in the area are featured on the menu, and are well worth a try. The pub offers dining options as well, including some local …

Flynns Irish Bar

An Irish pub that tends to get loud, especially when big games are broadcast or live music performances are on — there is usually one of those every night. You can show off your skills at Irish pool, and for the brave ones, there is also a weekly karaoke …

Seaview Hotel

With its spotless reputation and both casual indoor and outdoor seating areas, wood tables and potted plants, this hotel bar is a favourite weekend spot. Their menu includes seafood dishes, but also wood-fired pizza and hearty pub …

Centenary Hotel

Located away from the main tourist haunts is the Centenary Hotel, popular among locals for its food and drinks, as well as its great outdoor play area for kids. You will find an extensive menu, which includes varied food selections, such as Thai beef salad, lasagna and …

The Australian Hotel

Located inside the Australian Hotel, this bar is one of the town's favorite spots for dining, which also features multiple large screens which are perfectly fit for watching sports and events. The steaks offered are quite popular and deserve a try. Grab a couple of drinks with your friends and make yourselves …

Hooch & Fellow

Hooch & Fellow is a trendy bar where you can find a wonderful selection of drinks. The bartenders craft brilliant drinks made right, with no fruit juice in sight. They care about the ingredients and how each drink is made. Indulge in the cosy and intimate atmosphere with an elegantly served …

Shaw & Co

Shaw & Co is a place which exudes charm and warmth. The best way to appreciate this hidden gem is to visit it when you are really hungry for lunch or dinner. You can choose from among a variety of snacks, salads, sandwiches, chicken wings and some delicious fruity …

Shopping

There are a number of shopping malls and plazas in Townsville where you can visit department stores, specialty shops, boutiques and cafes. Cotters Market on Flinders Street is also very popular weekend shopping spot.