Townsville accommodation from NZ$109

Plan Your Trip

You may be most looking forward to getting out on the water, but first, you’ll probably have to take to the air. You’ll return to earth at Townsville Airport (TSV), and from there, the world is your oyster—rock oyster, to be exact.

If you’ve got a late flight or a long trip, you’re in luck. From Townsville Airport, accommodation in downtown is just a few kilometres away.

If You’re Focused on Food

Ever eaten bugs? “Moreton Bay bugs”, which resemble lobsters, come straight from the sea and onto the grill at one of the many beachfront joints. Don’t be “shellfish”: Anyone can appreciate a fresh-cracked lobster tail washed down with a pint and a sunset view. These guys are caught right off the coast of Townsville—locally sourced crustacean. Mmm.

Are you a “cross that bridge when you come to it” kind of traveller? Well, accommodation in Townsville means you’ll have one bridge you should definitely cross. Head over the Victoria Bridge to South Townsville to explore even more culinary delights like steakhouses, modern Australian and Mexican dishes—all without the tourist crowds. After all, you’re not a foodie until you get off the beaten track.

If You’re Bringing the Family

Magnetic Island isn’t called that for nothing—it can definitely work some magic. Even Captain Cook felt the pull back in 1770 as he passed the island, and named it accordingly. If you’re wondering where to stay on Magnetic Island, just ask yourself what you want to do while you’re there.

Townsville hotels near the Nelly Bay ferry terminal are a good jumping off point for catamaran tours and activities. The ferry ride alone will thrill the young ’uns, and once you’ve docked, hop onto a catamaran tour to see sea eagles, dolphins and colourful reef fish.

For some peace and quiet, get a Townsville hotel room in Picnic Bay. It’s just as nice as it sounds: the fishing pier, gardens and two kids’ play areas are sure to have something for everyone in the family.

If You’re Feeling Adventurous

Adventurous types don’t need a Townsville travel guide to know their number one destination. We’re betting they already have their itinerary in mind, and the sweet diving at the SS Yongala wreck is definitely top of the list. Befriend barracuda, sharks, moray eels and if you’re lucky, a huge humphead wrasse named “VW”—because he’s as big as one!

Sound amazing? “Dive” right into Australia’s most famous shipwreck with Wotif’s hotels in Townsville near the Breakwater Marina, the jumping off point for loads of tour groups. Honestly, we’re a little bit jealous.

If You Came to Party

You may in be the “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef”, but watersports and marine life aren’t the only pursuits on the menu. This city knows how to get down, too.

Step one: Head to The Strand for sunset cocktails with ocean views. Better yet, just get started at lunchtime and spend the arvo on the beach until it’s time for a second round.

Step two: Get those feet moving to Flinders Street, where you’ll find live music, laid-back lounges and nightclubs bumping the latest hits. Ramble back to your Townsville accommodation, sleep till noon and do it all again! In a town that’s chockablock with college students, backpackers and travellers, you can rest assured you’ll have plenty of company.

Fun Festivals and More

You may not know it, but the Australian Festival of Chamber Music is kind of a big deal. Small groups of classical musicians playing together may seem like an unusual niche, but ticket sales in the ten thousands don’t lie. You can even pick up an instrument and give it a try yourself—perhaps you have a talent you don’t even know about! We wouldn’t “string” you along: Check for Townsville hotel deals in early August and get classical.

For something a little less, let’s say swanky, look no further than the monthly Full Moon Parties on Magnetic Island. Local and international DJs keep the groove tunes coming, and you’ll be dancing so hard, you won’t even notice the sun coming up!

Ready for a getaway that has a little bit of everything in a nice, sunny package? Check out Wotif’s awesome selection of hotels, or bundle your airfares and accommodation with our Townsville holidays. With all that extra money in your pocket, your only regret will be that you can’t stay longer.