Islands, Reef, Rainforests, and Waterfalls Galore: The Underrated Region QLD’s Hiding from Us

We Are Explorers acknowledges that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Wulgurukaba, Bindal, Girrugubba, Warakamai, and Nawagi Peoples who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Quick Overview of Townsville

A coastal city with a population of 179,000 (2021 census), Townsville city finds itself in North Queensland, technically in the dry tropics fringed by the Great Barrier Reef and a handful of neighbouring islands. Although, you don’t have to venture far inland before you find yourself in the wet tropics, where sections of the rainforest are some of the oldest in the world.

About Townsville

Approximately 1,350km north of Brisbane and 350km south of Cairns, Townsville lies within the shallow Cleveland Bay. The city’s climate is characterised as tropical savanna with a distinct long dry season and short wet season.

There aren’t many cities that can boast more than one World Heritage site at its doorstep. With unique positioning, Townsville North Queensland has a plethora of natural wonders both on land and on the ocean — and numerous national parks too. One of my faves — and perhaps the most obvious — is the highly conspicuous (read: in your face) Cutheringa/Castle Hill, which attracts walkers and runners any time of the day.

Read more: After 5 Days in Townsville, I’ve Found Your Must-Visit Spots

History of Townsville

Originally inhabited by the Wulgurukaba, Bindal, Girrugubba, Warakamai, and Nawagi Peoples, it wasn’t until 1819 that Europeans arrived in the region. In the early days, gold mining and sugar cane farming boomed.

During WWII, the town was significantly important for battles in the Southwest Pacific, when a large contingent of United States and Australian armed forces based operations from several airfields in the region; and Townsville continues to be Australia’s largest military base.

How to Get to Townsville

There’s nothing quite like an Australian road trip, am I right? Driving to Townsville certainly isn’t out of the question, especially if you live in Queensland or anywhere north of Sydney.

As far as drives in the Lucky Country go, you’d end up taking in some incredible parts of Queensland’s coast with the bonus of heading inland to some lesser-known national parks, waterfalls, and Indigenous sites.

Otherwise, you can fly directly from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, and Gold Coast (thanks to Bonza) and indirectly (one quick stop) from Hobart.

Where to Stay in Townsville

Aptly titled the capital of North Queensland, Townsville is afforded all the perks of a major metropolitan area, meaning the variety and cost of accommodation are impressive.

Shoredrive Motel

Looking for somewhere affordable but with an amazing location? The textbook answer to this is the Shoredrive Motel. Just across from the beach, only a stroll into the city centre, and with easy access in and out of the city, this is a great place to base yourself. One of my all-time favourite budget stays.

Hotel Grand Chancellor

For those of you seeking a little extra something, the Hotel Grand Chancellor offers a convenient and comfortable experience right in the heart of Townsville. It has all the usual modern amenities like a pool (good for if you’re visiting in stinger season), gym, restaurant, and bar. Also, there are wonderful views of Castle Hill!

Dandaloo Gardens

Over on Yunbenun/Magnetic Island, the options don’t let up. If you’re looking for the middle ground again, be sure to check out Dandaloo Gardens. Set on manicured grounds, these one-bedroom chalets are everything you could need. For larger groups, the two-bedroom house is ideal. The mini resort enjoys a great central location with regular bus services. The Arcadia Village Hotel is only a short walk away, and if you time your visit right, you can partake in the world-famous Wednesday night toad races.

And don’t forget! There’s a considerable list of campgrounds in and around the nearby national parks that you can stay at too.

Where to Eat in Townsville

Happy Place Café

Tucking into a loaded acai bowl with a beach view is one of the best ways to start the day. This beachfront café focuses on health-driven eats with more than enough smoothies, juices, vegan bites, and delicious hot classics even for the most fussy discerning eater. Make it your one-stop spot in Townsville to fuel yourself for a day of expelling lots of energy.

Frosty Mango

I personally consider it a crime to not drop by this iconic highway road stop. The premise is simple: they make delectable sorbets and ice creams from local fruits and produce grown in their on-site orchards. You can also take some small goods home with you, like jams and chutneys. If you’re doing day trips to Paluma or Wallaman, Frosty Mango makes for a great mid-afternoon treat.

Shorehouse

After a full day of burning calories, why not go the extra mile and enjoy some incredible fusion flavours at Shorehouse? The setting is excellent, the drinks are moreish, and the menu blends great local produce with clever, tasty Asian recipes ideal for sharing — that’s if you want to share.

Things to Do in Townsville, North Queensland

Magnetic Island

• Forts Walk, to spot koalas
• Balding/Radical Bay
• Reef snorkelling at Arthur/Florence Bay
• Check out rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay
• Magnetic Island Race Week – 29th of August – 4th of September 2024

Read more: 8 Ways to Minimise Your Impact While Snorkelling and Diving

Cape Pallarenda

• Mountain bike the Under the Radar Trail
• Walk the Shelly Cove Trail
• Wallaby, lizard, and birdlife spotting

Read more: How to Learn to Mountain Bike Without Breaking Yourself

Paluma National Park

• Jourama Falls
• Mount Spec
• Crystal Creek waterholes
• Birthday Creek Falls Walk

Read more: How To Stay Safe Around Swimming Holes & Waterfalls

Girringun National Park

• Nginba Warrgamaygan Ngarji/Wallaman Falls
• Wallaman Falls Campsite
• Wet Tropics Great Walk

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

Essential Gear for Townsville

• Sunscreen
• Wide brim hat
• Hiking shoes
• Long-sleeve shirt
• Breathable clothing
• Wet weather gear (if visiting in the wet season)
• 1-2L of water carry capacity
• Swimmers
• Stinger suit (if visiting between Nov-May)
• Insect repellent

Read more: What to Pack in Your Hiking First Aid Kit

What It’s Like to Visit Townsville

Whether you prefer your time by the coast or are happy getting lost in the bush, Townsville North Queensland, stupendously caters for both tastes with a multitude of options.

Seek Some Island Time: Magnetic Island and Hinchinbrook Island

Both of these islands are microcosms of Queensland’s famed coastal charisma. And I’d say make your way to at least one (if not both) of these slices of seclusion.

Firstly, Yunbenun/Magnetic Island – one of the few islands on the Great Barrier Reef with a postcode, and home to a residential population of over 2500 locals – offers you a chance to slow things right down and indulge in some neat little hikes and coral reef snorkelling. Customisable day trips are available on a 58-foot yacht or a fast, rigid inflatable boat with Pilgrim.

Read more: Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef Off of Townsville Blew All My Expectations

On the other hand, Munamudanamy/Hinchinbrook Island is uninhabited and offers an unrivalled off-the-grid island experience. Visitors are limited by permit access to the national park (which covers the entire island), but suppliers like Absolute North Charters can offer you all sorts of experiences and take care of everything for you.

Read more: The Thorsborne Trail – 4 Days of Tropical Island Trekking on Hinchinbrook Island

Get High at Paluma Range National Park and Wallaman Falls

Pulling yourself away from epic beaches and the Great Barrier Reef can be challenging – but when there are rainforest-clad hiking trails, pristine waterholes, and one of the country’s most dramatic geological features within striking distance, you’ll be more than prepared to leave the sand behind.

Explore Local Townsville History & Culture

For those who like to get under the skin of a place — and perhaps give the body a little rest between outdoor escapades — Townsville has plenty of historical and cultural attractions for visitors to really get the vibe of the thing.

NAFA (Northern Australian Festival of Arts) is an annual festival that entirely engulfs Townsville with colour and creativity for 2.5 weeks. Visit between 26th of September and the 13th of October 2024 and you’ll have your pick of comedy, dance, visual arts, music, theatre and circus shows to choose from.

Queensland Museum Tropics is a state-of-the-art trove of interesting exhibitions covering the city’s natural and cultural identity.

Anyone with a keen interest in seafaring will have plenty to take in at the Maritime Museum of Townsville. From the area’s nautical past, including colonial history, to the Battle of the Coral Sea and commercial shipping.

Local art is given a place to shine at Umbrella Studio where regular First Nations exhibitions are a highlight. PUNQ (Pop Up North Queensland) is Umbrella Studio’s premier festival, celebrating the most exciting performance and visual artists of North Queensland. Check out the full 2024 program now!

Tips for Visiting Townsville

• Observe the seasons and pack accordingly – winters are generally warm and dry, with summers hot and wet
• If you’re from further south, be sure to keep an eye on your hydration, particularly if you’re taking part in physical activities
• Read up on Australia’s part in WWII and the area’s significance during this period becomes all more interesting
• They’re an active bunch: be prepared to mix with locals late into the night with a few cocktails, but also expect to see them on the pathways and beach for a run or cycle first thing in the morning

Photos thanks to @ryanbaldwinnn