The coastal towns of Queensland
Discover Queensland's inspiring coastal cities.
Queensland is unique amongst the Australian states in that it has a number of genuine coastal capitals. This sense of individuality has made cities like Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay, Bundaberg and Maryborough independent centres which do not rely on Brisbane. It has also ensured that rural Queenslanders don't see Brisbane in the same way that people in New South Wales, for example, regard Sydney.
Cairns
Cairns is a modern, sophisticated city, and is an ideal base to explore the wider Tropical North Queensland region with front door access to World Heritage listed Reef, Rainforest and Outback.
The city itself is where much of the accommodation is situated close to international standard restaurants, boutique shopping, modern art galleries and evening entertainment. All the attributes of a world class modern city are to be found in Cairns: International air access, rail systems, high-standard accommodation facilities, an art gallery, botanic gardens, university, a casino and a convention centre. Read more about Cairns.
Rockhampton
Rockhampton is situated on the Fitzroy River, and lies 40 kilometres inland from the beautiful Capricorn Coast beaches. The City is surrounded by the Berserker Ranges and Mount Archer, posing an impressive backdrop for the vibrant City centre, coast and the outback beyond. Read more about Rockhampton.
Townsville
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. Read more about Townsville.
Townsville is also encircled by other interesting towns and places to see, such as Charters Towers and Ayr.
It is impossible not to be impressed by Queensland's inspiring coastal cities. Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Mackay and Townsville all have a charming late-nineteenth century elegance about them.
Port Douglas, not too far from Cairns and well worth a visit.
Charters Towers is one of the most beautiful inland cities in Queensland.
The spectacular Burdekin Bridge, on the way to Ayr.