Townsville Trip Ideas
Explore the Great Barrier Reef
Ah, the Great Barrier Reef. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and the only living thing on Earth visible from space. Any trip to Australia would not be complete without visiting the Great Barrier Reef and Townsville is one of the most popular places to enjoy a day trip from. It only takes two hours to get to the Great Barrier Reef from Townsville following which you can enjoy this unique underwater world by snorkelling or diving. Get ready to see reef sharks, sea turtles and huge Maori Wrasse fish. Everyone needs to visit the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime!
DAY TRIP TO MAGNETIC ISLAND
One of the best things to do in Townsville lies just off the coast, a short twenty minute ferry ride away. Magnetic Island, or ‘Maggie’ as it’s often called by locals, is simply stunning with its empty white sand beaches, crystal clear seas, historic WWII walks and resident koalas. We hired a topless car (barbie car) on the island and drove ourselves around exploring basically living the dream for just one day. If you’ve more time to spare, I’d highly recommend staying on Maggie for longer and really sinking into its laid back rhythm.
Explore Hinchinbrook Island
Pack your backpack for four days of hiking through wild landscapes on Hinchinbrook Island's Thornsborne Trail. Prefer to relax? Soak up the sun on Lucinda Beach and Forrest Beach, before throwing out the picnic blanket at peaceful Tyto Wetlands.
Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise
Prepare to be spellbound as you set sail into the vast expanse of the ocean, seeking out majestic humpback whales on their annual migration journey. Feel the thrill of anticipation as the crew guides you to prime viewing spots, where we attempt to spot these gentle giants breaching, tail slapping, and frolicking in their natural habitat. Keep your cameras ready as we encounter a diverse array of marine wildlife, graceful sea turtles, and magnificent seabirds soaring overhead. Learn fascinating insights about these incredible creatures from our knowledgeable guides, who are passionate about marine conservation and eager to share their expertise with you. As we navigate the pristine waters, soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery and pristine beaches that adorn our route. Whether you are an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable oceanic experience, our Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise promises an unforgettable journey.
CASTLE HILL
At just under 1,000ft, Castle Hill dominates Townsville’s skyline. Only a few feet away from being classified as a mountain, you can’t visit Townsville without experiencing this giant pink granite monolith which reminds me so much of the Rock of Gibraltar. It splits the city in two with most of Townsville’s attractions lying between Castle Hill and the coast. If you have a car, you should definitely drive the 2.6km road winding up Castle Hill to the summit so you can soak in those magnificent views across to Magnetic Island and beyond. For those with a good level of fitness, you can take the Goat Track that consists of 758 steps up the steep slopes! Either way, those 360° views from the top are more than worth it.
STREET ART
Townsville’s street art scene was far more eclectic that I imagined. The local council encourages the painting of murals across the city with a walking trail created to ensure that you don’t miss any of the highlights. I wrote in a lot more detail about street art in Townsville but I’d highly recommend grabbing a map from the visitor information centre and taking some time to explore the city streets looking for the best artwork. The majority of the artwork is situated on Sturt and Ogden streets.
VISIT WALLAMAN FALLS
Just over 2 hours drive away, in the Girringun National Park, lies Australia’s tallest single drop waterfall. Australia is full of amazing waterfalls, but Wallaman Falls is the best of them all, cascading 268 metres down a sheer cliff face. If you’re able to, descend via the tough Djyinda Track to the bottom of the waterfall for epic views and amazing photo opportunities. It’s a tricky hike but very much worth it.
Museum of Underwater Art
Located in Townsville in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, MOUA is a series of installations by world-famous underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor that highlight reef conservation, restoration, and education, and a deep connection to the community. Though it looks like the stuff of your most surreal dreams, MOUA is not only a uniquely beautiful spectacle, but an innovative blend of art, marine science and culture.
