Townsville combines the lure of the tropics with the attractions of a major city. From diving in the Great Barrier Reef, trying your luck at the Casino, rafting white water rapids or simply lazing on golden beaches, Townsville offers the best of all worlds.

Located in North Queensland's "dry tropics," Townsville and Magnetic Island boast an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. Combining this glorious sunshine with a relaxed lifestyle and a diversity of attractions, Townsville is the perfect choice for a North Queensland holiday experience.

The city and its precincts are continually evolving. Discover the latest redevelopment along Flinders Street East - a mix of funky nightclubs including the The Sovereign, gay owned and operated hotel/nightclub. You'll also find bars and restaurants housed in beautiful heritage buildings.

Dining is a serious business in Townsville. Take a wander down Palmer Street and find restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, prepared using the freshest local seafood and produce.

The Strand is a world-class beachfront promenade custom-built for enjoyment. Along this palm tree studded stretch are bike and rollerblade paths, safe swimming beaches, pretty picnic spots, a water park and chic restaurants and bars with to-die-for water views.

Townsville is also one of Queensland's premier event destinations, with an exciting annual line up of sporting, aquatic, historical and cultural events.

Using Townsville as a holiday base, visitors can experience the natural wonders of the diverse North Queensland region through day tours, cruises or adventure excursions - all operating out of the city.

Townsville's many attractions include the world's largest living coral reef aquarium, an Australian native wildlife sanctuary, art galleries, museums, parks, restaurants and the spectacular Strand beachfront promenade.

Townsville is also a vibrant region that encompasses beautiful coastal towns, rainforests, rugged Outback and country terrain. Appreciate the beauty of the city and nearby Magnetic Island from Castle Hill, the rugged mountain that gives Townsville a unique rustic appeal. But the charm of this lovely region expands further from the city of Townsville - head in any direction and you'll be rewarded.

The Great Barrier Reef sprawls to the east, the Outback beckons to the west, islands and rainforest entice to the north while sugar cane and mango farming communities tempt in the south.

The Townsville region's national parks are home to rare butterflies and birds, kangaroos, platypus and ancient trees. Many of these also boast beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes, exquisite areas that are reminiscent of a bygone era.

There is also a rich history in this region that has been shaped by Aboriginal tribes, miners, pastoralists and war. Remnants of these bygone times are still evident in the beautiful colonial architecture, historic pubs, museums and displays of old gold mining machinery and cottages.

The opportunities for exploration in the Townsville Region invite you. The city is the perfect stepping-off point to experience the wonders of the region - the outback, rainforests, magnificent waterfalls, tropical islands and of course, the Great Barrier Reef.