About Townsville
June to August is the best time of year to visit; withaverage temperatures of 24 degrees, clear blue skies and gentle tropical breezes.
Townsville enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year and offers easy access to beaches, rainforests and the outback right in the very heart of the tropics.
Itis the largest city in Northern Australia and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state with a population exceeding 185,000.
Located about halfway between the tip of Cape York and Brisbane, Townsville stretches across 3,736 square kilometres and is nestled on the shores of Cleveland Bay. Traditional owners, the Bindal and Wulgurukaba peoples, are the first known people to have lived in the Townsville region. The city was founded in 1864 and declared a city in 1903.
Character & Climate
Townsville is characterised by its relaxed, tropical lifestyle created out of the beauty and charm of the city's natural surrounds. With the idyllic paradise of Magnetic Island right on its doorstep, a diverse mix of rainforest, sandy beaches, world-class heritage reef and diving experiences, outback bush and big city benefits, Townsville has something for every holiday itinerary.
With glorious sunny winter days, every day is an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of experiences this vibrant city has to offer. Winter in North Queensland is a delight, and the temperate climate offers the perfect escape from the cold winters down south. Picturesque swimming locations and well-shaded parks and gardens offer endless recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike.
City Precincts
Flinders Street Central has undergone a major upgrade and refurbishment program and traffic passes through the former mall for the first time in almost three decades breathing new life into the city heart. Flinders Street is home to a wide variety of retail shops and service providers and is also the venue for the award-winning Cotters Markets which are held every Sunday.
Flinders Street East boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and wine bars. The strip is not only the nightlife precinct of the city, it is an emerging hot spot for diners before meeting friends for an evening out on the own.
Palmer Street is located on the south bank of Ross River in the CBD and captures the essence of international cuisine and metropolitan accommodation. Boasting award-winning restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Palmer street offers mouth-watering flavours guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you fancy Indian, Asian, Italian, Greek, French, Mexican, modern Australian or locally-caught seafood, a visit to Townsville's premium eat street is a must. The central location offers proximity to public transport, the city's vibrant nightlife hub and gorgeous views across Ross Marina.
Gregory Street in North Ward offers a cosmopolitan village atmosphere adjoining the Strand. With exclusive boutique shopping and open air cafe dining it is the perfect stop for lunch or coffee and cake.
Bowen Road is a hub of hotel and motel accommodation located within a 10 minute drive of the city centre. Conveniently situated a close distance to both the city and the highway, Bowen Road is a well-located area to find accommodation in Townsville.
Townsville's Most Popular Destinations
The Strand is one of Townsville's great community highlights. This spectacular waterfront promenade is perfect for families or for those wishing to soak up Townsville's laid back tropical atmosphere. This 2.2km palm tree-studded stretch is adorned with bike paths and walkway, safe swimming beaches, picturesque picnic spots, a water park and chic restaurants and bars with breathtaking views. You can enjoy the free family fun of the Water Park, fish off the pier, dine at one of the many eateries or restaurants, or simply laze on the multi award-winning beach and enjoy the million dollar view to Magnetic Island.
Riverway is a hidden gem 20 minutes from the city centre. Located on magnificent Ross River frontage, Riverway Lagoons cover an area the size of more than three Olympic swimming pools, nestled among shady raintrees. Swim in the lagoons, walk the shaded boardwalk and pathways along the river, visit Pinnacles Gallery, have a meal at the restaurant, cook a meal on the gas barbecues provided, or catch a show at the Riverway Arts Centre.
Castle Hill is a red rock monolith in the heart of Townsville offering panoramic views, and a slice of military history. There is a popular walking track for locals, with a rocky ‘goat track' a favourite for fitness fanatics. A road offers access for vehicles and pedestrians.
For more information on what's happening in Townsville visit: www.sealinkqld.com.au
