The best things to do in Townsville for first timers

Magnetic, Orpheus, Hinchinbrook; the islands off Townsville are legendary. Just 20 minutes from the mainland, you’ll find the calm blue waters of Magnetic Island, with all the makings of a perfect island getaway with its rugged coastline, picturesque beaches and sensational snorkeling spots. Just further up the coast is Hinchinbrook Island; a world-heritage National Park with some of the best hiking and unspoiled beaches in the region. Orpheus Island, meanwhile, prescribes the finer things in life, boasting 5-star luxury and privacy to boot.

Rub shoulders with the locals

It’s not just the region’s great outdoors that’ll have your Townsville itinerary jam-packed; with a bursting annual calendar there’s no shortage of Townsville events to hit up if you’re visiting the city for the first time. The Australian Festival of Chamber Music has been delighting music lovers for 30 years, with its annual migration north performing songs of classical greats. Each July performances are held right across the city – including on the sands of Orpheus Island.

Climb Castle Hill

A striking icon jutting out of Townsville’s cityscape, Castle Hill is popular with locals and visitors alike, each looking to raise their BPM – and cop some of the best views in the city. Boasting multiple walking tracks to its summit, challenging BMX trails, and the city’s gorgeous botanical gardens at its base, this giant pink rock rewards visitors with 360-degree views out across the city and the Coral Sea. History buffs will get a kick out of the preserved World War II observation bunker: a nod to the city’s military history.

Cool off at The Strand

Palm trees, ocean-touching promenade and pristine sandy beach, no first-timer’s trip to Townsville is complete without a walk along The Strand. The 2.5km walkway hugs the city’s gorgeous tropical coastline, and is lined with cafes and restaurants, all boasting breathtaking views out to Magnetic Island. With a dedicated water park suitable for families, direct access to the beach, as well as a serving as a picturesque walking and running circuit, The Strand packs quite the punch.

Day trip west

If you can tear your eyes away from the magic of the Coral Sea coastline, a trip west into the region’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area will reap reward. Practically surrounded by National Parks, head just two hours north west to spend a day cooling off beside the prehistoric looking Wallaman Falls in Girringun National Park, or hike the trails of Paluma National Park and set up camp at Big Crystal Creek near Mount Spec. Don’t leave before taking a dip in Crystal Creek and Jourama Falls.

Experience the magic of the Reef

First-timer in the tropical north? Chances are you’re coming to visit the Great Barrier Reef. And you’ll be in the right place, too; access to the Reef from Townsville is unparalleled, with the reef practically right on the shoreline. Just a short boat trip out to Magnetic Island provides some of the best snorkeling in the Central Great Barrier Reef, while the iconic SS Yongala shipwreck is a firm favourite for divers. Day trips east will take you to some of the most magnificent, most remote coral reefs, making Townsville one of the best locations for exploring the Reef.

For a taste of the Reef without dipping so much as a toe in the water, first time visitors to Townsville must add Reef HQ to their itinerary. While the site is currently closed for refurbishments throughout 2021, the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium and national education centre for the Great Barrier Reef is something truly remarkable.

Soak up the culture

Townsville has carved out a reputation as regional Queensland’s emerging arts hub – but its history goes way back. Experience Indigenous culture first-hand, learn ancient traditions and hear stories about the land and its people to get a real feel of Townsville. Boasting a notable street art trail in its centre, and fostering the region’s influential Indigenous arts scene with a number of dedicated First Nations art galleries, the city has embraced local artisans and how they’re shaping the town.

Even the sea bed is a canvas in Townsville; the Museum of Underwater Art showcasing large-scale international and local sculptural works under the water and along the shoreline.

Dine in style

Whether you’re after a breakfast to fuel your adventures, or simply somewhere to soak up the atmosphere, Townsville’s dining scene punches well above its weight. A bustling new laneway precinct showcases the flair and passion of small businesses in the region, while The Strand provides options for all the family (with bonus Magnetic Island views).

A must-try on any Townsville foodie itinerary is The Ville - Townsville’s luxury hotel and casino - where diners are treated to some of the finest dining options in town. Trust us, you won’t want to skip a meal here.