Top Townsville Outdoor Activities

Check an item off your bucket list by snorkeling or scuba diving on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On this tour from either Townsville or Magnetic Island, you’ll take a custom-built boat with a professional crew to Lodestone Reef, home to stingrays, sea turtles, reef sharks, tropical fish and more. Lunch, drinks and equipment are included. You have three options when booking: snorkeling, two certified dives or an introductory dive with an experienced instructor.

Looking for a new underwater challenge? Embark on an unforgettable full-day scuba diving adventure in the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, open only to certified divers. Dive amid schools of tropical fish, manta rays and sea snakes; explore the remarkably preserved SS Yongala shipwreck and spot sea turtles and whale sharks. This small-group tour has a maximum of 21 participants and includes two open-water dives, lunch on-board and transport from either Townsville or Magnetic Island.

There’s no better way to enjoy the natural landscapes of Hinchinbrook Island than during a scenic helicopter ride from Townsville. From above, you’ll absorb spectacular aerial views of the prehistoric paradise, characterized by dense rain forest, mangroves, white-sand beaches, and secluded coves, while listening to commentary from your pilot. Choose between morning or afternoon departure, and relish personalized attention on this small-group tour, limited to four passengers.

Experience the magic of a sunset in Australia’s tropical north, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef. Set sail from Townsville and watch the color of the sky change to hues of pinks, yellows, and oranges as the sun sets over the azure waters.

Soar over the city landmarks and natural wonders of Townsville or Cleveland Bay on this exhilarating helicopter tour. Choose a 10-minute flight over the city and take in unrivalled views of Castle Hill, the beaches of the Strand and the lively Townsville Port. Alternatively, upgrade to a 30-minute flight and enjoy magnificent aerial views of Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island as you swoop over the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Make your experience of Townsville truly special by taking a 45-minute scenic helicopter ride over Cape Cleveland. In a group limited to four passengers, you’ll soar over Townsville’s coastline, the Cape Cleveland Lighthouse, and the Bowling Green Bay National Park. Absorb the region’s natural landscapes from above while your polite provides commentary via headsets. Choose between a morning and afternoon departure.  

If you’re seeking a unique sightseeing experience of Palm Island, look no further than this scenic helicopter ride from Townsville. In a small group limited to four passengers, you’ll glide over Magnetic Island before tracing the trail of Palm Island’s archipelago. Listen to commentary delivered by your pilot via a headset and gain a holistic picture of the iconic Great Barrier Reef National Park.

Enjoy an exhilarating scenic flight followed by a luxurious small-group sailing experience showcasing spectacular Magnetic Island. The flight departs over Townsville's waterfront and picturesque Cleveland Bay before taking in the pristine beaches, turquoise waters and fringing reefs that surround this laid back island paradise. On touchdown at Magnetic Island, join the team at Pilgrim Sailing for a cruise to one of the islands many secluded bays. While at anchor enjoy time to swim, relax on the giant inflatable mat or simply chill out on-board and soak up the tropical warmth. A delicious seafood lunch is provided including a selection of complimentary beverages. This magical day out concludes with a short ferry ride back to Townsville.

Listen and learn from your passionate, experienced guide Take in Townsville's most iconic sights Learn about Townsville’s early and recent history Delight in all the benefits of a personalized, small group tour

Experience life on a live-aboard boat during this fun overnight trip. You'll spend a couple of hours sailing around, then put anchor to watch the sunset. Bring your own alcoholic drinks to enjoy. After a serene night at sea, wake in time for a glorious sunrise and recharge with breakfast. An easy way to have a sailing adventure if you don't know how to sail.