Fritzjames Stephen
The area of Townsville offers many attractions for the visitor. Here you will find an array of interesting things to do for visitors with many different preferences, such as those listed below.
No visit to Townsville would be complete without experiencing the many attractions of Magnetic Island. This lovely island is only a short distance away from the mainland and can easily be reached by boat. Magnetic Island offers many features of interest including pretty beaches, many kinds of wildlife, secluded bays, an array of walking paths and a convenient location in the midst of an attractive marine park. You will find a number of walking trails of varied difficulty and distances on the island; visitors will also have the opportunity to engage in a number of water activities including swimming and snorkeling.
Visitors with an interest in sea creatures and the marine environment will be enthralled by this remarkable aquarium. Reef HQ has the distinction of being the world's biggest aquarium to feature a functioning coral reef. It offers a splendid showcase of the magnificent Great Barrier Reef for persons who are not avid divers. The highlight of the aquarium is naturally the principal coral reef feature which showcases a wide variety of marine life. This provides a lifelike representation of the reef environment, as opposed to other aquariums which segregate marine life into separate tanks. You will also have the chance to enjoy a number of shows relating to marine life at this aquarium.
There is no doubt that the splendid Great Barrier Reef is one of Townsville's most significant attractions. This remarkable creation of nature is widely considered to rank amongst the world's most important natural wonders. If you are a proficient diver you will have the opportunity to experience an array of outstanding diving locations in the area by joining a tour of the local diving spots. Visitors will be able to choose from options such as exploring a challenging wreck, experiencing shallower canyons and reefs or venturing into more testing depths. You will have the chance to observe fascinating marine creatures such as rays, turtles, corals and many kinds of fish.
The Strand is Townsville's well-known promenade on the beachfront which is a popular destination for outdoor fun and entertainment. Stretching along an extent of more than 2 km, this popular leisure area offers facilities such as playgrounds, barbeque areas and cycling and walking tracks. You will be able to replenish your energies at one of the restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars that not only provide excellent food and drink but are also great places for watching people. As you enjoy the attractions of The Strand and other local highlights, stay at a quality accommodation Townsville offers such as the Oaks M on Palmer, located within easy reach this locale.
Many cities have a lookout point that offers outstanding views and in the case of Townsville this will undoubtedly be the renowned Castle Hill. In fact Castle Hill is located within the city's CBD itself, and it is a prominent sight with its reddish colour and lofty height. This hill is a popular hiking / walking location and from its summit offers spectacular panoramic views over the city and the Cleveland Bay in the distance. It is also a splendid location at which to take photographs and is frequented by many visitors to Townsville. You will find numerous viewing platforms at various positions on the hill which provide amazing sights in different directions.
