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Nestled along Queensland’s stunning coastline, Townsville boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in Australia. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a snorkeling adventure, or the perfect spot to soak up the sun, the best beaches in Townsville offer something for everyone. From the golden sands of The Strand to the crystal-clear waters of Magnetic Island, this tropical paradise is a dream destination for beach lovers. Get ready to explore the top coastal gems that make Townsville a must-visit for sun, sea, and serenity.
10 Best Beaches In Townsville
Discover the 10 best beaches in Townsville for a relaxing day by the sea on your next trip to Australia:
1. Bushland Beach
Photo: Geoff Wols / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bushland Beach is a wide sandy beach where families and friends come to relax. The water is shallow, making it safe for kids to swim. People often bring picnic baskets or cook at the BBQ facilities. There is a small café nearby where you can grab fish and chips. You can also find a playground, toilets, and a boat ramp.
Location: Northern Townsville, 25 minutes from the city centre
How To Reach: Drive via Bruce Highway and take the Bushland Beach exit
Things To Do: Swimming, fishing, beach walks, picnicking, and playground activities
2. Saunders Beach
Photo: u_9bqda8jcnc / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Saunders Beach is long and clean, perfect for walking or swimming. The water is clear, and there are shaded picnic areas with BBQ facilities. There is a small takeaway shop selling snacks and cold drinks. It is one of the top beaches in Townsville where locals go fishing. You can visit Rollingstone Creek for a freshwater dip.
How To Reach: Take the Bruce Highway and turn off towards Saunders Beach Road
Things To Do: Swimming, fishing, BBQ, picnicking, and walking trails
3. Toolakea Beach
Photo: Fabian Wiktor / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Toolakea Beach is a long stretch of sand where people enjoy beach walks and fishing. The beach is usually quiet, making it a nice place for a picnic. BBQ areas and toilets are available. There are small food stalls nearby selling burgers and ice cream. The sunrise view is beautiful, and the sound of waves relaxes the place. It is one of the famous beaches in Townsville, especially among fishing enthusiasts.
How To Reach: Drive along Bruce Highway, then take Toolakea Beach Road
Things To Do: Walking, fishing, swimming, and BBQ
4. Toomulla Beach
photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Toomulla Beach is a quiet beach with a wide stretch of sand. It is a great spot for fishing, with many people using the boat ramp. BBQ areas and picnic tables are available for visitors. There is no shop nearby, so people bring their own food and drinks. The beach is surrounded by trees, providing shade on hot days. It is one of the best beaches in Townsville if you want a simple day by the water. You can visit Crystal Creek nearby for a freshwater swim.
Location: 47 km north of Townsville
How To Reach: Take Bruce Highway, then turn onto Toomulla Beach Road
Things To Do: Fishing, walking, BBQ, and relaxing
5. Balgal Beach
Photo: Infotechmonkey / Wikimedia Commons
Balgal Beach is one of the top beaches in Townsville for swimming and fishing. The local café serves fish and chips, cold drinks, and snacks. BBQ areas and picnic tables are available for families. The beach is wide and sandy, with a few trees providing shade. You can visit the Paluma Range National Park for a nature walk nearby. The early morning breeze here feels refreshing, making it a great place to start the day.
How To Reach: Drive along Bruce Highway and take the turn-off towards Balgal Beach Road
Things To Do: Swimming, fishing, BBQ, and picnicking
6. Secret Beach
photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Secret Beach is hidden from the main roads, making it one of the famous beaches in Townsville for those who like quiet places. The sand is soft, and the water is usually clear. There are not many shops or facilities, so visitors need to bring their own food and water. People often bring snacks like sandwiches and fruit for a day out.
Location: Close to Pallarenda, near Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park
How To Reach: Drive towards Pallarenda, then walk a short trail to the beach
Things To Do: Swimming, walking, and enjoying a quiet beach experience
7. Bluewater Beach
photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bluewater Beach is a long sandy beach where people go fishing, swimming, and relaxing. There is a shaded picnic area with BBQ facilities and toilets. The beach is dog-friendly, so many people bring their pets for a walk. It is one of the best beaches in Townsville for those who like a quiet and open space. A small food truck sometimes sells snacks and cold drinks near the car park.
How To Reach: Take Bruce Highway and turn onto Bluewater Drive
Things To Do: Fishing, dog-walking, BBQ, and picnicking
8. Jalloonda Beach
photo: Pok Rie / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Jalloonda Beach is one of the top beaches in Townsville that is not crowded. The sand is soft, and the water is usually calm, making it good for swimming. There are no cafes or shops, so visitors bring their own food and drinks. Some people bring small BBQ grills to cook fresh seafood. The nearby Rollingstone Park has picnic spots and walking trails.
Location: Near Rollingstone, north of Townsville
How To Reach: Drive along Bruce Highway and follow signs towards Rollingstone
Things To Do: Swimming, relaxing, and long beach walks
9. Pallarenda Beach
photo: ravelizard / Wikimedia Commons
Pallarenda Beach is a popular spot for outdoor activities. It is one of the famous beaches in Townsville, close to Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park. There are walking trails leading to old war bunkers and viewpoints. The beach has BBQ facilities, toilets, and picnic areas. A small café nearby sells coffee, sandwiches, and cold drinks. People enjoy swimming here, and some bring kayaks to explore the water.
Location: 7 km from Townsville city centre
How To Reach: Drive towards Cape Pallarenda Road
Things To Do: Swimming, fishing, hiking, and BBQ
10. The Strand
photo: Hector Garcia / Wikimedia Commons
The Strand is one of the best beaches in Townsville, located in the city centre. It has a long walkway, playgrounds, and safe swimming areas with stinger nets. Many cafes and restaurants are nearby serving seafood, burgers, and cold drinks. People often enjoy fish and chips while sitting by the water. BBQ areas, picnic tables, and toilets make it a great place for families. The nearby Jezzine Barracks offers historical sites and walking trails.
Location: Townsville city centre
How To Reach: Easily accessible by car, bus, or even walking from central Townsville
Things To Do: Swimming, dining, cycling, and playground activities
The best beaches in Townsville have something for everyone, from quiet spots to family-friendly areas with BBQs and picnic tables. Some beaches have good fishing, while others are great for swimming and walking. You can also enjoy fresh seafood and local food at nearby cafes. Plan your visit now with TripXL and explore these coastal gems for a relaxing day out.
Cover Photo: Hector Garcia / Wikimedia Commons
