What to know before you go
Where is Townsville?
Townsville sits in the heart of North Queensland. It's about a 4.5-hour drive (350km) south of Cairns and around 3.5 hours (275km) north of Airlie Beach in The Whitsundays.
What airport do I fly into to visit Townsville?
Townsville Airport (TSV) is the main hub, located just 10 minutes from the city centre. You can grab a taxi, rideshare or hop on a local Kinetic bus service to town.
How to get around Townsville?
Townsville is easy to explore by car, with well-connected roads and parking. Public buses service major hubs including the CBD, suburbs, and the ferry terminal to Magnetic Island.
What’s the climate of Townsville?
Expect a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot and humid, with daytime temps averaging 25–32°C.
- Autumn (Mar–May): Things cool slightly to 21–29°C. Perfect for island escapes and reef adventures.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Dry, sunny and glorious, with temps around 15–26°C. This is peak season for hiking, festivals and day trips.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Enjoy average temps of 20–31°C. A great time for shoulder-season savings and fewer crowds.
When is the best time to visit?
Townsville shines year-round, but May to October is the sweet spot – think warm days, blue skies and perfect weather for beach trips and island hops. The wet season (Nov to Apr) brings tropical rain which means lush green landscapes and gushing waterfalls. Want fewer crowds and better deals? Travel just outside peak season.
Time your trip for local events like Australian Festival of Chamber Music, Supercars, Townsville Running Festival and Magnetic Island Race Week. See what's on.
What is there to do in Townsville?
From city to reef to rainforest, there’s plenty to pack in. Explore tropical islands, hit the rainforest trails and dive the Great Barrier Reef. Back in town, enjoy dining, local brews and don't miss a Cowboys NRL game.
Is it safe to swim in Townsville?
Always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches and check signage for stingers or crocodiles, especially in the warmer months.
What are the best beaches in Townsville?
Right in town, The Strand delivers beachside vibes with a protected swimming area and oceanfront rockpool. Over on Magnetic Island, swim at Horseshoe Bay, snorkel at Nelly Bay, or spot rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay. Head north for quieter beaches near Rollingstone and Lucinda.
Can I visit the Great Barrier Reef from Townsville?
Absolutely - there are many reef day trips available. Magnetic Island’s fringing reef is perfect for families, while divers can explore the famous SS Yongala shipwreck or Museum of Underwater Art. Want a reef stay? Orpheus Island and Pelorus Private Island are as luxe as it gets. Plan your reef trip here.
Where can I see wildlife in Townsville?
Meet native species at Billabong Sanctuary. Magnetic Island is known for its wild koalas (especially along the Forts Walk) and rock wallabies near Arcadia. You might even spot cassowaries in the rainforest a few hours north of the city, or see platypus in Paluma Range National Park – Hidden Valley is a top spot.
Where to eat in Townsville?
Head to The Strand for waterfront dining, or try the laneway bars and restaurants in City Lane. Ardo offers rooftop cocktails and modern flair, while Magnetic Island dishes up fresh seafood with a view. Check out the best places to eat in Townsville and Magnetic Island.
What can I do with kids in Townsville?
Families love The Strand for splash parks and the rockpool, or go swimming in natural rock pools up at Paluma Range. Ride the ferry to Magnetic Island for wildlife spotting and beach play. Don’t miss the Maritime Museum or hands-on fun at the Queensland Museum Tropics. Fancy a road trip? Head to Charters Towers and pan for gold. Here’s what to do.
Where should I stay in Townsville?
Whether you're here for a weekend or winding down island-style, there's a stay to suit your vibe. Choose from resort-style hotels like The Ville or Ardo, family-friendly holiday parks, or beachy self-contained apartments. Magnetic Island has it all from glamping to boutique hotels. For the ultimate retreat, book Orpheus Island or go luxe with your own island at Pelorus. Here’s your Townsville and Magnetic Island accommodation guide
What are the best day trips from Townsville?
- Magnetic Island: Just 20 minutes by ferry for beach hopping, wildlife and island walks.
- Paluma Range National Park: Cool off under waterfalls in the rainforest.
- Wallaman Falls: Hike to the base of Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall.
Discover more Townsville day trips.
Do I need a car on Magnetic Island?
Not essential, but handy. You can hire cars (including topless ones!), scooters or use the local bus service to explore.
Can I take my own car to Magnetic Island?
Yes, Magnetic Island Ferries offer vehicle transport options from Townsville.
Note: SeaLink ferry is passenger-only.
How long should I spend in Townsville?
Give yourself at least 3 days to soak in the city, Magnetic Island and surrounding nature spots. Got more time? Stay longer and dive deeper.
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