Townsville, Queensland

Located on the north-eastern coast of Australia, Townsville is the unofficial capital of North Queensland and one of the fastest growing regions in Australia. Situated on Ross Creek and overlooked by the 290m-high Castle Hill, Townsville is a thriving metropolis.

Townsville offers visitors a world of new experiences - from the Great Barrier Reef and its tropical islands through to the historic outback and the lush rainforests, waterfalls and world heritage listed national parks in the surrounding region.

From diving in the Great Barrier Reef, trying your luck at the Casino, rafting white water rapids or simply lazing on golden beaches, Townsville offers the best of all worlds.

The city and its precincts are continually evolving. Discover the latest redevelopment along Flinders Street East - a mix of funky nightclubs, bars and restaurants housed in beautiful heritage buildings. Dining is a serious business in Townsville. Take a wander down Palmer Street and find restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, prepared using the freshest local seafood and produce. The city is the perfect stepping-off point to experience the wonders of the region - the outback, rainforests, magnificent waterfalls, tropical islands and of course, the Great Barrier Reef.

The city has two botanical gardens. The old Queens Gardens, a 4 ha park with extensive stands of tropical trees and flowers, is located 2 km from the city centre with the main entrance being from Paxton Street. 6 km from the city centre in the suburb of Mundingburra is the new Anderson Park Botanical Gardens covering 32 ha including a lagoon, conservatory and a number of picnic places.

Townsville's many attractions include the world's largest living coral reef aquarium, an Australian native wildlife sanctuary, art galleries, museums, parks, restaurants and the spectacular Strand beachfront promenade. The Strand is a world-class beachfront promenade custom-built for enjoyment. Along this palm tree studded stretch are bike and rollerblade paths, safe swimming beaches, pretty picnic spots, a water park and chic restaurants and bars with to-die-for water views.

Townsville is also one of Queensland's premier event destinations, with an exciting annual line up of sporting, aquatic, historical and cultural events. Using Townsville as a holiday base, visitors can experience the natural wonders of the diverse North Queensland region through day tours, cruises or adventure excursions - all operating out of the city.

Townsville is also encircled by other interesting towns and places to see, such as Charters Towers, a scenic gold mining city that is big on history and character just 90 minutes south-west of Townsville. Around 80 Kms south of Townsville at the heart of one of the most productive sugarcane-growing areas is Ayr, a typical thriving coastal town.

Townsville Hotels and Accommodation

Townsville has many great hotels and resorts, perfect of a romantic getaway, weekend escape or family vacation. Click through the list below to check availability and pricing.