Townsville

Fill your days exploring by land or sea or stick to the town’s treasure trove of activities.

Magnetic Island tempts visitors daily courtesy of a 20-minute ferry to its coral-fringed sands. Grab a snorkel and explore the kaleidoscopic colours of the Great Barrier Reef, alongside the bounty of national park reserves, hidden beaches, and palm trees that call the island home.

But visitors to Townsville also have a chance to get to know the natural wonder without getting their feet wet – the town is home to the much lauded Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium. The world’s largest living coral reef aquarium, this educational centre boasts a 2.5 million litre exhibition, and a rehabilitation centre for sea turtles. The reef also brings the Museum of Underwater Art’s inaugural sculpture “Ocean Siren” to life, which can be seen from The Strand Jetty as it changes colour according to the temperature of the water.

Back in town, there’s more than enough offerings to keep guests entertained. Days can be spent trawling the main drag’s increasing collection of cafes, restaurants, boutiques and galleries, or at beachside promenade The Strand, a favourite of families thanks to its free water adventure playground. It’s no walk in the park, but the trek up to the top of Castle Hill is well worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded after an adventurous schlep up the 268-metre-tall iconic centrepoint (just metres short of mountain status) with 360-degree views and the chance to enjoy a particularly memorable sunset.