With over 200,000 residents, Townsville is Australia’s largest urban centre north of the Sunshine Coast, and it’s easy to see why so many people call Townsville home. The city basks in an average of 320 days of sunshine annually, has exclusive access to Magnetic Island and is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. A Townsville holiday is perfect for exploring tropical islands, wetlands and rainforests. Its warm tropical weather is ideal for relaxing on the beach. And with a fascinating historical mix of epic gold rush tales and armed forces connections, Townsville’s many attractions will keep you enthralled for the entirety of your stay. So pack your bags and head to Tropical North Queensland; you won’t be disappointed.
We begin our journey with a three-night stay inTownsville, experiencing all the region has to offer. Get up close to thespectacular Texas Longhorns, a bovine experience like no other. Next we travelto Magnetic Island to explore the wonders and history of the island. Biddingfarewell to Townsville, we journey to Airlie Beach for a two-night stay. Enjoya scenic cruise to the famous Whitehaven Beach and an extraordinary adventureon a Whitsunday Crocodile Safari. Our final nights are spent in Mackay, touringFinch Hatton Gorge with a local nature guide and lunch at One Hungry Mumma.Finally, we enjoy a guided tour of Sarina Sugar Shed.
On arrival, you’ll find a lively city with many Townsville attractions to fill your sun-soaked days. Start with a bird’s eye perspective by making the 268m climb up Castle Hill. It's hard work, but the journey up this massive pink granite rock will reward you with 360-degree views over the city and Magnetic Island.
A short 20-minute ferry ride takes visitors to the untouched paradise of Magnetic Island. Spend your days hiking, sailing, kayaking, or snorkelling the pristine fringing coral shoals. If you’re not so keen to get wet but still want to see the reef, pop into Reef HQ, the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium. This 2.5 million litre exhibition and sea turtle rehabilitation centre are world-class.
Native wildlife encounters are offered at Billabong Sanctuary with the resident dingoes, echidnas, saltwater crocodiles and cassowaries. Or take an hour’s drive to Paluma Range National Park in the very south of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area to explore the lush rainforest and swim below pristine waterfalls.
Townsville’s refurbished 19th-century city centre provides an ever-increasing collection of cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and galleries for urbanites. The beachside promenade, The Strand, is ideal for a stroll and watching the world go by.
Although you can visit Townsville anytime, some find the hot, humid summers uncomfortable. As a result, most visitors choose a Townsville holiday in winter, taking advantage of warm days and cooler evenings.
You can fly into Townsville from any major city in Australia. From Brisbane, it takes just two hours. It’s a bit longer by road, with a 1300 km journey taking you north along the ever-changing Queensland coast. Consider letting someone else do the hard work by booking a train ride on the Spirit of Queensland or a Townsville tour.
Townsville is known for its stunning coastline, tropical climate, and vibrant cultural scene. It serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including snorkelling, diving, and exploring nearby islands.
Townsville is known for its stunning coastline, tropical climate, and vibrant cultural scene. It serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including snorkelling, diving, and exploring nearby islands.
Naturally, the best way to experience Townsville’s natural beauty is on our Queensland Coastal Collection eight-day tour.
But this bold state has far more to offer. Explore our complete list of Queensland coach tours for over-50s travellers!
Townsville has a population of approximately 179k people.
Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.