Uncover the Best of Townsville’s Hidden Treasures

Known as one of the major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, Townsville, the largest city in northern Australia, is a thriving coastal port city and one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional centres. Townsville has a robust and diverse economic base, including mineral processing, agriculture, mining, manufacturing, healthcare, defence, and tourism. Here’s our ultimate guide to the top things to do in the coastal hub that is Townsville.

Where to Eat

When thinking of Townsville, you may not think of it as a ‘foodie’ destination. But from City Lane, a sophisticated dining precinct, inspired by New York City complete with edgy street art, to Flinders Street East, known as the restaurant and nightlife precinct of Townsville you’re sure to find something to tantalise your tastebuds.

A Touch of Salt
Located in the heart of Townsville’s CBD is where you’ll find A Touch of Salt, boasting stunning views of Ross Creek, A Touch of Salt offers eclectic modern Australian cuisine, and is the perfect spot to enjoy dinner on a balmy summer evening in Townsville. When dining at A Touch of Salt, you can’t go wrong with the Moreton Bay bug arancini, followed by the honey-roasted duck.

Jam Corner
Known as one of Townsville’s favourite dining spots, Jam Corner overlooks the CBD and Ross River. It offers a seasonal menu featuring the finest produce and ingredients the North Queensland region has to offer. Our favourite dishes are the Seafood caserecce pasta featuring local Townsville prawns, completed with the banoffee basque cheesecake.

Miss Songs
Located within the beautiful surrounds of The Ville resort is where you will find Miss Songs, an Asian fine dining experience, that will take you on a journey to the Orient. Treat yourself to a banquet featuring Miss Songs’ peaking duck pancakes and the customer favourite, salt and pepper calamari.

Marmor
If it’s surf and turf you’re after, Marmor is the place for you, offering beef from Australia’s premium cattle producers, and the freshest seafood caught on the North Queensland coastline. Located within the beautiful Ardo Hotel, Marmor offers amazing views and a menu, if you have a hankering for a steak, we recommend the Black Opal wagyu, produced in the nutrient-rich pastures of Victoria and Tasmania or if you’re craving something from the sea, we can’t go past the spanner crab spaghettini, featuring crabs from Fraser Island.

Shorehouse
Nestled along Townsville’s scenic waterfront, Shorehouse offers a vibrant dining experience with lovely views and delicious dishes. Enjoy seafood like freshly shucked oysters and grilled tiger prawns or indulge in their tamarind-roasted pork belly. With a relaxed, coastal atmosphere, it’s perfect for enjoying both casual bites and elevated meals like their tonkatsu glazed beef short rib or duck mapo.

Where to play

The Strand
The Strand, Townsville’s beautiful beach foreshore is a 2.2km beachfront, palm tree-lined promenade built for enjoyment and relaxation. The Strand offers something for everyone, featuring bike and walking paths, picnic spots, and spectacular views of Magnetic Island. Our favourite spots on The Strand are the water park, open till 7 pm daily during the summer months and the rockpool, a stinger-resistant seawater pool.

Museum of Underwater Art
Explore the wonders of the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), the only underwater art museum in the Southern Hemisphere. Divers and snorkellers can explore the Guinness World Record holder, the Coral Greenhouse, the largest underwater art structure in the world, is an impressive 12m high marvel, featuring sculptures modelled on local school children, a reminder of the importance of protecting the environment for future generations. A short swim from the Coral Greenhouse is where you will find the Ocean Sentinels, a series of sculptures, each representing a renowned marine scientist or conservationist. Viewable from The Stand is the Ocean Siren, an illuminated sculpture inspired by a young indigenous girl from the Wulgurukaba tribe, serving as a warning signal about the threat of warming seas to the Great Barrier Reef.

Riverway Lagoons
Overlooking the Ross River, and nestled in a beautiful rainforest setting, is where you’ll find the Riverway Lagoons. Featuring two lagoon areas, the upper lagoon includes an area for swimming laps, while the lower lagoon is a family-friendly lagoon, where you can lounge on the timber decks and enjoy the shade.

Black River
If fishing is your thing, then you’ll love Black River a hidden fishing spot found just north of Townsville, is the perfect spot to find salmon, grunter, crabs, barramundi and golden snapper, and is easily accessible without a boat.

Platypus Safari
A short drive from Townsville is Hidden Valley Cabins, voted one of the top five places to see platypus in the wild by Australian Geographic, their Platypus Safari is a must-do activity for anyone wanting to cross spotting a platypus off their bucket list.

Texas Longhorn Tours
Known as Australia’s ‘Texas in the Outback’ experience, Texas Longhorn Tours is a unique experience. Get up close to the magnificent herd of Texas Longhorns, as well as view Asian Water Buffalo, American Bison, Mexican Sardo Negro, African Ankole Watusi and Scottish Highland cattle.

Where to shop

Cotters Market
Townsville’s iconic Cotters Market is the largest marketing in North Queensland, held every Sunday in the heart of the city’s CBD filled with a diverse selection of vendors offering, fresh produce, arts, crafts and food trucks, it’s a perfect place to spend a Sunday morning in Townsville.

Townsville Shopping Centre
Located in the suburb of Aitkenvale, Townsville Shopping Centre is your one-stop shop for all your shopping needs. Here you will find Woolworths, Myer, numerous dining options, and several banking and financial services, all under one roof.

Strand Night Markets
Held on the first Friday of every month (February – December) it’s the perfect place to unwind after the working week. With over 180 stalls selling a diverse range of fashion, homewares, local arts and crafts and Townsville’s favourite food trucks, there’s no better place to end the week.

Castletown Shopping Centre
Castletown Shopping Centre in Townsville is a vibrant shopping destination, offering a mix of fashion, food, and lifestyle options. Shoppers can explore popular stores like Big W, Best & Less, and Coles, while also enjoying a range of specialty retailers like Ringers Western and Commonwealth Bank. Whether you’re picking up groceries, updating your wardrobe, or grabbing a bite to eat, Castletown has something for everyone.

Magnetic Island Markets
The Magnetic Island Markets, held every Sunday offers a vibrant mix of local craftsmanship, fresh produce, and unique finds, set against the island’s stunning natural backdrop. From handmade jewellery to fresh tropical fruits, there’s something for every taste and style. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these markets provide the perfect opportunity to experience the island’s creative spirit and laid-back charm.

Gregory Street
Gregory Street in Townsville is a charming shopping hub, brimming with boutique stores, cafes, and vibrant street art. Whether you’re hunting for unique fashion at local boutiques or enjoying a coffee at one of the trendy cafes, this lively strip offers a perfect blend of style and culture. A stroll down Gregory Street promises a delightful mix of shopping and relaxation in the heart of Townsville.

Renegade Handmade Market
Renegade Handmade Market is a vibrant and creative marketplace celebrating local artisans and makers. It’s a hub where unique handmade goods, art, and fashion come together, offering a lively atmosphere for all to enjoy. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind pieces or simply soaking up the community spirit, this market promises an unforgettable experience. Visit and support the talent of independent creators while discovering something special at every corner.

Where to adventure

Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island, just a short ferry ride from Townsville, is a tropical paradise offering stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you’re hiking through picturesque trails, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or simply relaxing in a peaceful cove, the island is a haven for adventure and relaxation. With its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, Magnetic Island is the perfect escape from the everyday.

Castle Hill
Castle Hill in Townsville is an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city, the Coral Sea, and Magnetic Island. Whether you’re hiking up the trails for a scenic adventure or enjoying a leisurely stroll, the hill provides stunning vistas at every turn. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone seeking a moment of tranquillity.

SS Yongala
The SS Yongala, a legendary shipwreck off the coast of Townsville, is one of the world’s best dive sites, teeming with marine life and history. Scuba divers flock to explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea creatures that have made the wreck their home. With its rich history and underwater beauty, the SS Yongala offers an unforgettable adventure for divers and history enthusiasts alike.

Wallaman Falls
Wallaman Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall in Australia, is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the heart of the Wet Tropics. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the falls plunge 268 meters into a pristine gorge, creating a spectacular sight. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails or simply enjoying the view, Wallaman Falls offers an unforgettable experience in North Queensland’s stunning wilderness.

Hinchinbrook Island
Hinchinbrook Island, a hidden gem off the coast of North Queensland, is a paradise of pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and lush rainforests. The island offers unforgettable adventures, from hiking the famous Thorsborne Trail to exploring its untouched shores and diverse wildlife. With its natural beauty and seclusion, Hinchinbrook Island is a true escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Charters Towers
Charters Towers, a historic gold mining town in North Queensland, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its well-preserved heritage buildings and rich history. Explore the iconic Venus Gold Battery, stroll through the charming streets, and discover the town’s vibrant cultural scene. With its unique blend of history, heritage, and small-town charm, Charters Towers is a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventurers alike.

Think Townsville may be the city for you? With its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and tropical climate, it’s the perfect base for those seeking adventure and work. Just a short drive from some of Queensland’s most lucrative mining operations, Townsville offers great opportunities for those looking to build a career in the resources sector, all while enjoying the vibrant city life and natural beauty nearby.

Explore our range of mining courses and kickstart your career in Townsville.

About Civil Safety
Civil Safety is a leading Registered Training Organisation (RTO 32381) for the mining, civil and construction industries, with operations across Queensland and Western Australia. We provide safety and operational training to thousands of people every year from a diverse range of backgrounds. Our highly experienced trainers bring real-world experience to the classroom – ensuring our students graduate ready for work with the skills, confidence and qualifications required for safe and compliant operation in dangerous environments.
With a vast range of courses, plus a variety of learning methods including face-to-face, blended and online – we can help you gain the skills you need to enter a new industry or upskill in your current career.

Find out more information on the range of courses we offer in Townsville, or give our Townsville team a call on 07 4722 9100.