Hotels in Townsville

Discover Townsville: Where River Meets Reef and Adventure Awaits

Discover Townsville, Queensland, a vibrant coastal city that seamlessly blends stunning natural beauty with rich cultural experiences. Bask in the sun on pristine beaches like The Strand, where palm-fringed shores meet the sparkling Coral Sea. Explore Magnetic Island's lush landscapes and iconic wildlife, just a short ferry ride away. Immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, or shop and dine along Flinders Street. With its picturesque riverfront, nearby national parks, and thriving marine life, Townsville offers an unforgettable escape for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. For the best hotel rates in Townsville, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Townsville

Some of the best places to stay in Townsville are North Ward, South Townsville and Kirwan. Townsville offers diverse areas for travelers. North Ward is ideal for those seeking beach access and vibrant nightlife. South Townsville features a mix of restaurants and cultural attractions, perfect for exploring local life. Kirwan provides a more suburban feel with family-friendly amenities. For first-time visitors, North Ward is the best choice, with easy access to the Strand and waterfront. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments, ensuring options for every traveler’s needs. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Townsville:

1. North WardOpens in a new window: North Ward is a vibrant area in Townsville, perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. With attractions like Queensland Country Bank Stadium for sports enthusiasts, Castle Hill for stunning panoramas, and The Strand Beach for family outings, it offers a diverse experience. Notable hotels include Rambutan ResortOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star property ideal for those wanting a premium vacation experience, and Hotel Grand Chancellor TownsvilleOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that caters to adventure seekers and families, offering business amenities and exciting on-site activities. Additionally, Quest Townsville on EyreOpens in a new window provides a blend of business and luxury themes, located conveniently in the city center.
2. South TownsvilleOpens in a new window: South Townsville is an outdoor lover's paradise, featuring attractions like Queensland Country Bank Stadium and the Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre, making it a hub for family entertainment. Grand Hotel and Apartments TownsvilleOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that focuses on adventure and business travelers, providing various recreational activities nearby. Allure Hotel & ApartmentsOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star hotel, caters to luxury and business needs with excellent facilities, while Park Regis AnchorageOpens in a new window offers thrilling adventure activities, perfect for those looking to explore the outdoors.
3. KirwanOpens in a new window: Kirwan is a family-friendly neighborhood that boasts attractions like James Cook University and Willows Shopping Centre, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. Cedar Lodge Motel TownsvilleOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.5-star motel offering entertainment options, while Vale HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, is ideal for families with its business amenities and child-friendly facilities. Additionally, Upper Ross HotelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, provides dining options and various entertainment activities, ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors.

Things to do in Townsville for first time

Three days in Townsville offers an exciting blend of sun-soaked beaches, lush parks, and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy swimming, diving, and boating in crystal-clear waters, while hiking through picturesque landscapes and camping under the stars. It's a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Townsville:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Jezzine Barracks, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Coral Sea and learn about the area's military history. After exploring the barracks, take a leisurely stroll down to Shelly Cove, a hidden gem perfect for a relaxing beach experience. Finally, make your way to Pallarenda, where you can unwind on the beach, take in the scenic views, and watch the kite surfers as the sun sets, providing a picturesque end to your day.
• Day 2: Start with a hike in Magnetic Island National Park, where you can discover beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. After your hike, head to Radical Bay, an idyllic spot for a swim or a picnic on the beach, surrounded by palm trees and clear waters. Conclude your day at Horseshoe Bay Lagoon Conservation Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the lagoon’s edge, taking in the natural beauty and perhaps spotting some local birdlife.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Horseshoe Bay Beach, where you can relax on the golden sand or take part in water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking. Afterward, venture to West Point, the most western point of Magnetic Island, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the natural surroundings. Wrap up your itinerary at Picnic Bay Beach, ideal for a late afternoon swim or a picnic, allowing you to bask in the beauty of the sunset as your Townsville adventure comes to a close.

5 tips to find a great Townsville hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Townsville is during February, October, and November, when hotel prices are more affordable. For international travelers, it's best to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure lower fares. To fully enjoy the main attractions, plan for at least 2-3 days in Townsville. Key highlights include the stunning beaches, picturesque islands, and beautiful natural parks, all of which offer great value for money for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for budget-friendly options in Townsville, last-minute deals can offer excellent savings on accommodations. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find reduced rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, increasing your chances of snagging a fantastic deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Townsville.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and nearby attractions in Townsville is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away, you can take advantage of various transportation options like a car, bus, bicycle, or walking to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Townsville and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Townsville

Here are some top-rated dishes in Townsville, Queensland, Australia:

• Barramundi: This iconic Australian fish is a must-try in Townsville. Known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture, barramundi is often grilled or pan-seared, served with fresh herbs and local vegetables. Many restaurants offer it with a side of tangy lemon myrtle sauce, reflecting the region's Indigenous culinary influences.
• Prawns: Freshly caught prawns are a highlight of the local seafood scene. They can be enjoyed grilled, BBQ'd, or in a classic prawn cocktail. The coastal waters around Townsville provide a bounty of these succulent crustaceans, making them a popular choice at casual beachside eateries or more upscale dining spots.
• Mud Crab: A true delicacy, mud crab is often prepared in a variety of ways, including steaming or stir-frying with spices. Enjoy it at local markets or restaurants, where it's typically served with a side of garlic butter, perfect for dipping.

Best time to go to Townsville

Townsville experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 66.7°F (19.3°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.6°F (27.0°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Townsville, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.