Nestled on the northeastern side of Queensland, Townsville is a charming Australian metropolis and a fantastic coastal paradise. The Strand esplanade is a world-class mecca packed with beaches, oceanfront dining, nightspots, a water park, and walkway paths. If you wish to discover the beauty of The Great Barrier Reef, The Reef HQ Aquarium is the place to go. It houses corals and marine life from the biggest reef system in the world. A short drive south of the city will lead you to Billabong Sanctuary, a must-visit park of Australian wildlife. Once done indulging Townsville’s abundant offerings, you might want to plan exciting out-of-town adventures. To help you plan your escapade, browse through this list of day trips from Townsville, Australia.
1. Yongala Wreck (from USD 224.9)
If you’re an adventure-seeking traveler and a certified diver, this Yongala Wreck Dive Trip by GetYourGuide is perfect for you. In this tour, get to visit one of the world’s best diving spots in Townsville and discover the breathtaking marine life Australia has in store for visitors. Besides the colorful corals and fishes, you’ll get to see a magical shipwreck that will make you feel like Ariel in her treasure trove.
The cost of this 10-hour tour includes tank and weights, admission fees, and transport services. You can bring your diving gear or rent one from the marina.
From Townsville or Magnetic Island: Yongala Wreck Dive Trip
Duration: 10.0 hour
2. Museum Of Underwater Art and The Great Barrier Reef (from USD 192.86)
For tourists who wish to see the beauty of The Great Barrier Reef but don’t know where to start, this tour package by GetYourGuide is for you. This day trip lasts for nine hours, and you will be journeying to the Central Section of Australia’s most famous reef - where you will be scuba diving (or snorkeling) to your heart’s content.
You will also get to visit the Museum Of Underwater Art, where you can marvel at the beauty of different underwater creatures, learn about the conservation of the reef, and see the submerged masterpiece called The Coral Greenhouse.
Museum Of Underwater Art & Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
Duration: 10.0 hour
3. Orpheus Island
Can’t get enough of the sea and water sports? Plan a day trip to Orpheus Island and discover the beauty and tranquility of this Great Barrier Reef paradise. The island is home to the lush and secluded Orpheus Island National Park, a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and swimming with manta rays, turtles, and whales.
The island also houses Orpheus Island Lodge, which offers upscale tropical accommodations with breathtaking sea views.
Orpheus Island
Address: Orpheus Island, Hinchinbrook Area QLD 4850, Australia
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Magnetic Island (from USD 28.0)
Located 8 km (5 mi) away from Townsville, Magnetic Island is another destination you should not miss. With the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island National Park within an arm’s reach, plenty of outdoor activities await. You can enjoy scenic walks to Hawkings Point and Rocky Bay, horseback riding in Horseshoe Bay Ranch, and snorkeling escapades at Nelly Bay.
For a more convenient getaway, join this Magnetic Island tour package by Viator, which takes care of round trip transport and itinerary. This is a full-day trip, so you can maximize your time amidst nature.
Magnetic Island Round-Trip Ferry From Townsville
Duration: 20 minutes
5. Big Crystal Creek
A paradise with outstanding beauty, Big Crystal Creek boasts a dreamy setting in Paluma Range National Park. It has a campsite where you can pitch a tent in case you feel like staying overnight. Permits and fees apply.
A short stroll from the camping area can take you to enchanting waterfalls and freshwater swim holes with rock slides. While swimming, you might catch sight of little turtles lurking in the water.
Big Crystal Creek
Address: Crystal Creek QLD 4816, Australia
6. Jourama Falls
After days of exploring underwater worlds, you might be interested in an adventure above ground. Why not check out the enchanting Jourama Falls? While the journey to the falls might cost you an hour (or two), the beauty of the destination is worth the effort.
This 99-m (325-ft) cascade in Paluma Range National Park offers a dreamy setting and swimming holes that delight visitors. In case you feel like staying overnight, there are plenty of campsites nearby.
Jourama Falls
Address: Bruce Hwy, Yuruga QLD 4850, Australia
Website: Jourama Falls
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Kickstart your adventure from Townsville
Townsville is a gorgeous city packed with exciting attractions for almost all types of adventures. Besides destinations within the city, there are nearby paradises that you should not miss on your visit. Use this list of the best day trips from Townsville as your guide when curating your itinerary.
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