Car Hire in Townsville

Spend the Day at The Strand

If you're looking for a fun-filled day, then head to The Strand. This beachfront promenade has plenty to do for the whole family. Walk or cycle along the track and take in the picturesque views of the water. Or there are plenty of spaces to take a picnic, including The Strand Rockpool, which is a safe swimming spot to cool off. Another hot spot for the kids is The Strand water park. It will surely be a hit with plenty of fun water features and places to play. Additionally, there is also The Strand Park which has multiple playgrounds and a basketball court. When all the fun is done, head to one of The Strand's restaurants for dinner with an incredible sunset view over the water.

Billabong Sanctuary

Ready for an Australian wildlife adventure? Strap in for a fun-filled day where you can meet your favourite animals and even get up close and personal with them. Cuddle a koala, hang out with a python and hold a crocodile! There are plenty of shows and insightful talks to listen into and experiences, including feeding a cassowary, meeting a dingo, watching a crocodile leaping from the water for a treat, and you can get up close with and feed the cute turtles.

Hike up Castle Hill

Standing tall in the heart of Townsville is Castle Hill, a pink granite focal point with fantastic views from the top. Hike up to one of the lookout points at sunrise or sunset to catch breathtaking panoramic views of Townsville and the beautiful blue waters below.

Visit Magnetic Island

A few kilometres offshore from Townsville is Magnetic Island, a gorgeous tropical paradise. Accessible by ferry Magnetic Island boasts pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and fringes on the coral reefs. There is no shortage of adventure here, from sailing and snorkelling in the clear waters to paddleboarding and relaxing in the sun on the sandy beaches. Hire a jetski to experience the island from a different perspective, join a fishing charter for the day, hike up one of the many trails to see the rewarding views or explore the town. There is plenty to see and do at Magnetic Island.  

Charters Towers Ghost Tour

If you're a lover of all things spooky, then this one is for you. Located about an hour and a half's drive from Townsville is Charters Towers, a town with an eerie history. Spend the day exploring, then wait until after dark to see the town in a different light. Choose from one of the ghost tours and learn about the town's history and hear the hair-raising stories. But beware! This one isn't for the faint of heart.

Visit the Townsville Palmetum

The Townsville Palmetum is a tropical botanical garden that features only one family of plants throughout the entire park. There are approximately 300 different species of palms within the 17-hectare gardens, many of which are rare and others that are threatened in their original habitats. Wander through the gardens and admire the collection of palms that come from all over the world.

Jezzine Barracks

Jezzine Barracks is an important historical site for both the Australian military and Indigenous Australian people. The precinct commemorates both through public artworks, insightful signage and the restoration of the Kissing Point Fort complex. Stroll along the coastal boardwalks that connect Rowes Bay and The Strand and take in the fantastic views, admire the traditional paintings and commemorative artworks, and visit the military museum to learn about the history of Jezzine Barracks and Indigenous Australians. Be sure to head up to Kissing Point Fort to look out over the observation deck and see the stunning views of the water and surroundings.

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

The Perc Tucker Regional Gallery is home to a remarkable collection of North Queensland art. This heritage building is a hub for art lovers showcasing local and national artists. If you're looking for a relaxed activity for the soul, head to the gallery and immerse yourself in the exhibitions and collections of magnificent art. Be sure to check out any available workshops or other public programs on offer, including floor talks, lectures and performances.

Experience the Great Barrier Reef

Townsville is the perfect place to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Its close proximity to the reef means you're there in no time and can dive right in and waste no time exploring a selection of the 3,000 separate reefs. There are plenty of reef experiences to choose from, including snorkelling through the turquoise waters and exploring the colourful reef, diving, scuba diving, cruising along the waters, or if you don't want to get wet, you can see it from above in a helicopter.

Brewery Tour

If you love an ice-cold brew, then check out a brewery tour to sample the delicious brews from multiple craft beer and cider breweries around Townsville. Take a tour of a local brewery, learn about the process of creating wonderful beers and ciders and try some, too, while you're there.

Spend the day at Riverway

The Riverway precinct is a riverfront parkland based along the side of the Ross River. This awesome attraction boasts exciting water-based activities for all to enjoy. From exploring the parklands and bringing a picnic lunch to swimming in the two massive lagoons and relaxing in the water. There is even the Riverway Arts Centre and Pinnacles Gallery to wander through and explore. Riverway is a great destination to visit all year round, with holiday celebrations as well as food, wine and sporting events taking place at the parklands. Be sure to see what's on so you don't miss out.

Anderson Park Botanic Gardens

Wander through this stunning showcase of flora, fauna, and magnificent manicured gardens. The Anderson Park Botanical Gardens hosts a huge variety of tropical trees, palms and pandanus species for all to enjoy. Stroll through the Queensland Rainforest Collection, Tropical Fruit Orchard or the Cape York Peninsula Collection to see the beautiful displays of diverse flora. Or sit under a tree with a picnic by the Lotus Pond for a stunning backdrop to your lunch.

Stand-Up Comedy

If you're in need of a laugh, be sure to check out the local stand-up comedy scene in Townsville. Multiple venues host comedy nights that are sure to provide belly-aching laughs and a night of quality entertainment from funny local comedians.

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