The best things to do in Townsville for first timers

Townsville’s islands are legendary – each with their own personality and adventures to match. Put island hopping right at the top of your itinerary

• Magnetic Island: Just 20 minutes from the mainland, this island getaway is perfect for families and adventure-seekers alike. Rugged coastlines, golden beaches, a koala park and top-notch snorkeling spots make it a must-visit.
• Hinchinbrook Island: A World Heritage National Park further up the coast, with epic hikes, untouched beaches, and wilderness waiting to be explored.
• Orpheus Island: For those craving five-star luxury and total privacy, this exclusive island escape is all about the finer things in life.

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 35 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, sparkling ocean views, and golden sand - no first-timer’s trip to Townsville is complete without a stroll along The Strand. This 2.5km promenade hugs the tropical coastline, lined with cafés and restaurants serving up epic views of Magnetic Island. With a dedicated water park for the kids, direct beach access, and a scenic walking and running circuit, The Strand packs a serious punch, perfect for families, fitness fans, or anyone just chasing some good vibes.

Day trip west

First-timers to Townsville shouldn’t miss a trip into the lush Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Just a couple of hours from the city, you can experience towering waterfalls, ancient rainforest hikes, and crystal-clear swimming holes.

• Wallaman Falls, Girringun National Park: Marvel at Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall and cool off in its prehistoric-looking pools.
• Paluma National Park: Hike scenic trails through ancient rainforest and get goosebumps from the amazing mountain views. Don’t leave before taking a dip in Crystal Creek and Jourama Falls. You’ll kick yourself if you forget your swimsuit. 
  

Experience the magic of the Reef

If it's your first time 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 ride from town you’ll be able to submerge yourself in the coral at neighbouring Magnetic Island. Go solo or join the team at Pleasure Divers for an adventure. Or join a Eco Discovery Cruise with Aquascene led by Master Reef Guides.
• Dive the SS Yongala. This historic shipwreck is considered to be one of the best preserved diving offerings, and stretches across 107 metres and lies 30 metres below the surface. An advanced dive, it’s best guided by the experts – turn to the likes of Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive and Yongala Dive.
• Prefer to see it from above? Climb aboard Townsville Helicopters or Nautlius Aviation for a bucket list-worthy ride. 

Soak up the culture

Townsville is bursting with art, culture, and stories waiting to be discovered.

• Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA): Even the sea bed is a canvas here, with large-scale sculptures both underwater and along the shoreline by world-famous Jason deCaires Taylor. It’s an unforgettable experience for budding or pro divers alike.
• Street art trail: Wander the city centre and admire vibrant murals that bring Townsville’s streets to life. Follow this walking trail and prepare to be wowed. 
• Indigenous culture: Get hands-on with ancient traditions, hear stories of the land, and connect with First Nations people. Visit Mungalla Station for a cultural tour, live music, and a traditional kup murri feast. Check out the Umbrella Studio in town for workshops and Perc Tucker Regional Gallery for roving exhibitions. 

Feast Your Way Through Townsville's epic dining scene

From beachfront breakfasts to laneway cafés, Townsville’s foodie scene is straight up drool-worthy. Whether you’re fuelling up for adventures or just soaking up the vibe, the city serves up flavours worth lingering over.

• Hoi Polloi Café: Melbourne-meets-Townsville charm at this quirky spot with ultra smooth coffee and delicious baked treats. 
• Longboard Bar & Grill: Tacos, wings, margaritas with Magnetic Island views! This is casual eats done right on The Strand.
• JAM: Modern Australian with a Townsville twist. Think: local ingredients, Chef’s Hat-worthy dishes, and must-try highlights like BBQ scallops, and blood orange cannoli.
• Shorehouse: Snag a table on the deck and tuck into modern Asian-fusion eats in a coastal-chic setting. 
• The Quarterdeck: Set within The Ville Resort-Casino, sip cocktails, slurp oysters and feast on melt-in-your-mouth steaks at lunch and dinner.

Where to stay in Townsville