With an average of 320 days of sunshine each year, Townsville feels like summer all year round – making it the perfect spot for a family getaway. Whether you’re looking to explore wildlife, enjoy outdoor adventures, or soak up some culture, Townsville has something for everyone.
Here’s our list of the 9 top things for families to do in Townsville!
1. Splash Around at The Strand Waterpark
The Strand is a fantastic family-friendly destination in Townsville. This 2.2km beach foreshore offers scenic views of Magnetic Island, playgrounds, outdoor gym equipment, and plenty of walking paths.
Top Attraction: The Strand Waterpark – a free, fun-filled water playground featuring slides, water cannons, and the always popular tipping bucket! It’s the perfect spot to cool off and let the kids play for hours.
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Location: The Strand, Townsville
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Opening Hours: Strand Waterpark is closed every Tuesday for maintenance, excluding Queensland State School holidays public holidays. See schedule for when lifeguard is on duty.
2. Visit Magnetic Island for the Day
Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island offers a wealth of outdoor adventures for families. Spend the day exploring secluded bays, hiking through beautiful bushland, and spotting wildlife like the famous rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay in the evening.
Things to Do:
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Swim in pristine waters
- Explore the self-guided Magnetic Island snorkel trail
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Hike through the island’s scenic trails
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Spot the rock wallabies in the evenings at Geoffrey Bay
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Ferry Information: Depart from Breakwater Ferry Terminal, just a short walk from Mariners North Holiday Apartments. Ferries run daily. Check ferry schedules for times.
3. Explore the Maritime Museum of Townsville
Step back in time and learn about Townsville’s maritime history at the Maritime Museum of Townsville. This fascinating museum is home to a collection of artifacts, photographs, model ships, and relics that tell the story of North Queensland’s maritime past.
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Location: 42-68 Palmer Street, Townsville
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Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 1:30 pm (Closed Sundays, Australia Day, Easter Friday, Anzac Day, and between Christmas and New Year)
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4. Visit Billabong Sanctuary
Just 20 minutes from Townsville, Billabong Sanctuary is an incredible wildlife experience. Set in lush natural surroundings, the sanctuary allows visitors to get up close to iconic Australian animals like kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and crocodiles!
What to Expect:
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Meet native Australian animals up close
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Explore a range of habitats including eucalypt forests, wetlands, and rainforests
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Enjoy informative wildlife talks and demonstrations
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Location: 2 Muntalunga Drive, Nome (17 km south of Townsville)
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Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Closed Christmas Day)
5. Discover Queensland Museum Tropics
Formerly known as the Museum of Tropical Queensland, this museum offers a fascinating look at North Queensland’s natural and cultural heritage. With exhibits on World Heritage-listed rainforests, coral reefs, and the tragic story of the HMS Pandora shipwreck, there’s something for everyone at Queensland Museum Tropics.
Key Highlights:
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Explore permanent and visiting exhibitions
- Discover the diverse landscapes of North Queensland, from the depths of the ocean to the peaks of its rainforests, from the ancient era to modern times
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Visit the onsite café for a break
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Location: 70-102 Flinders Street, Townsville
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Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
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Admission: Free for general entry, charges apply for special exhibitions.
6. Visit Perc Tucker Regional Art Gallery
Set in a charming colonial building from 1885, the Perc Tucker Regional Art Gallery showcases works by local artists as well as national and international exhibitions. You’ll find everything from oil paintings and sculptures to ceramics and photography.
Don’t Miss:
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Touring exhibitions showcasing different art styles
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Exhibition performances and talks
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Location: Corner of Flinders and Denham Streets, Townsville
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Opening Hours:
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Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
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Closed Mondays, public holidays, and during exhibition changeovers
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Find out what’s on at Perc Tucker Gallery.
7. Climb to the Top of Castle Hill
Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith in the heart of Townsville. Offering sweeping 360-degree views of the city and surrounding areas, it’s a great spot for a family hike. Choose from several walking tracks that lead to the summit, or drive to the top for an easier option.
Things to Do:
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Hike or drive to the top for breathtaking views
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Take photos at one of the most iconic spots in Townsville
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Enjoy the facilities including car parking, amenities, and shaded seating areas
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Location: Central Townsville
8. Explore the Great Barrier Reef & Museum of Underwater Art
No visit to Townsville is complete without a trip to the Great Barrier Reef! Take a day trip to explore this natural wonder with a guided snorkel tour that also includes visiting the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA).
What to Expect:
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Snorkelling at some of the reef’s most beautiful spots
- Visit to MOUA
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An educational and family-friendly experience
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All snorkelling equipment provided including long length protection suits
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Full demonstration and instruction on snorkel techniques
- Morning tea, cold buffet lunch, afternoon tea, cold water, cordial, tea and coffee provided
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Minimum Age: 6 years old
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Duration: Full-day tour
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Booking: Book your tour in advance to secure a spot. For more information visit Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Trip.
9. Family Dining in Townsville
After a day of exploring, it’s time to relax and enjoy a delicious meal with the family. If you’re staying at Mariners North Holiday Apartments, you’ll have access to your own fully equipped kitchen and onsite BBQs. However, Townsville is home to plenty of great dining options, so if you feel like eating out, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Check out these great places to eat in Townsville.
Why Stay at Mariners North Holiday Apartments?
As the only absolute oceanfront accommodation in Townsville, Mariners North Holiday Apartments is the perfect base for your family holiday. Located on The Strand, one of Townsville’s most exclusive areas, every apartment features stunning ocean views, private balconies, and fully equipped kitchens. You’ll also have access to fantastic facilities, including a large saltwater swimming pool, tennis court, BBQ area, and free WiFi.
Perfect for Families:
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Ocean views from every apartment
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Onsite saltwater swimming pool, tennis court, and BBQ facilities
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Fully equipped kitchens for self-catering
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Free WiFi for the entire family
Plan Your Family Adventure in Townsville Today!
With so much to see and do, Townsville is a fantastic destination for families. Whether you’re splashing around at The Strand Waterpark, exploring Magnetic Island, or hiking to the top of Castle Hill, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant Queensland city. Book your stay at Mariners North Holiday Apartments and create lasting memories with your family!
Photo credit: Nelly Bay Magnetic Island thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland.