Townsville, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Guide to Townsville & Magnetic Island

High season: Winter (June to August)
Low season: Summer (December to February)

Welcome
Getting to Townsville and Magnetic Island
When to visit

Townsville is one of the major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, with the natural wonders of Magnetic Island a short boat ride away.

The coastal hub of Townsville is an ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the southernmost rainforests of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and the Queensland outback. Take the time to explore this vibrant city before joining a Great Barrier Reef tour or taking the 25-minute ferry ride to Magnetic Island, where secluded beaches and abundant wildlife await.

You can fly directly into Townsville Airport from Brisbane, Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Melbourne airports.

Townsville Airport (TSV) is 5km (3mi) from the city
To continue on to Magnetic Island, catch a ferry with SeaLink Queensland or Magnetic Island Ferries (pre-booking is essential)

Getting around Townsville and Magnetic Island is made easy with both destinations providing public transport, car hire services, scooters, bicycles, taxi services and local tours ready to show you around.

Many Aussies flock to Townsville during winter and spring (June to November) to escape the cold, as the city and Magnetic Island have incredible sunny weather all year round. The best time to visit would be autumn (March to May) as there is less rain than the summer but the waterfalls are still teaming with water and wildlife from the rainfall.