Best 1-2 Day Road Trips in and Around Townsville

Why Townsville Is the Perfect Base

Townsville isn’t just the gateway to North Queensland — it’s a vibrant city in its own right, and the perfect launchpad for exploring the region’s rainforests, waterfalls, historic towns, and tropical islands.

With a Redspot rental car, you’ll have the flexibility to set your own pace, take the scenic routes, and discover hidden gems that tour buses often miss. Whether you’ve got one day to spare or an entire weekend, these six road trips from Townsville promise unforgettable adventures.

1. Magnetic Island – Beaches, Wildlife & Sunsets (1 Day)

Distance: 20-minute ferry + 10 km drive on the island

Just offshore, Magnetic Island (“Maggie”) is Townsville’s tropical gem. Taking your rental car across on the ferry means you can explore the island’s 23 bays and beaches without relying on limited local buses.

Highlights

Horseshoe Bay – Bustling with water sports, cafés, and beachfront bars.
Forts Walk – A 4 km return hike through WWII ruins with panoramic island views. Keep an eye out for koalas along the trail.
Alma Bay – A safe, family-friendly swimming spot.
Geoffrey Bay Rock Wallabies – Feed these friendly locals at dusk for a unique wildlife encounter.

👉 Redspot Tip: Book a small SUV or hatchback to make island exploring easier — the roads are sealed, but parking at beaches can be tight.

2. Paluma Range National Park – Rainforest Escapes (1 Day)

Distance: 80 km (1.5 hours each way)

Head north to the cool-climate rainforests of Paluma Range National Park. With waterfalls, swimming holes, and a laid-back village atmosphere, it’s a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat.

Highlights

Little Crystal Creek – Swim beneath a picturesque stone bridge surrounded by lush rainforest.
Big Crystal Creek & Paradise Waterhole – Perfect picnic and swimming spots.
Paluma Village – A tiny rainforest hamlet with walking trails, cafés, and birdwatching.
Cloudy Creek Walk – Short but scenic, ideal for stretching your legs.

👉 Redspot Tip: A compact SUV gives you comfort on winding mountain roads and space for picnic gear.

3. Charters Towers – Step Back in Time (1–2 Days)

Distance: 135 km (1.5 hours each way)

Known as the “World” in the gold rush era, Charters Towers offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and Outback hospitality.

Highlights

Stock Exchange Arcade – Once the stock trading hub of North Queensland.
The Miner’s Cottage – Try your hand at gold panning.
Towers Hill Lookout – Panoramic views, WWII bunkers, and stunning sunsets.
Texas Longhorn Tours – See impressive cattle breeds and learn about the region’s rural heritage.

👉 Stay Overnight: Heritage hotels like The Royal Private Hotel or quaint B&Bs add old-world charm.

4. Hinchinbrook Lookout & Forrest Beach – Scenic Seclusion (1 Day)

Distance: 120 km (1.5 hours each way)

Drive north to the Hinchinbrook region, where you’ll find postcard-perfect views and peaceful beaches.

Highlights

Hinchinbrook Lookout – Uninterrupted views of Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest island national park.
Forrest Beach – A quiet, unspoiled stretch of sand ideal for a relaxed swim or picnic.
Lucinda Jetty – At 5.76 km long, it’s the Southern Hemisphere’s longest service jetty and an impressive sight.

👉 Redspot Tip: Ideal for couples or families wanting a low-key coastal escape. A fuel-efficient compact rental makes the trip easy.

5. Ayr & Alva Beach – Diving and Coastal Fun (1 Day)

Distance: 90 km (1 hour each way)

South of Townsville lies Ayr, the heart of the Burdekin region, famous for sugar cane fields and its spectacular dive site.

Highlights

Alva Beach – Great for beach driving, fishing, and kite surfing.
SS Yongala Dive Site – Consistently rated one of the top 10 wreck dives in the world.
Burdekin Bridge – An engineering marvel known as “The Silver Link.”
Local Culture – Check out the Burdekin Theatre or catch a film at Delta Cinemas.

👉 Redspot Tip: If you’re a diver, plan this as a full-day trip. SUV rentals are handy for carrying dive gear.

6. Wallaman Falls – Australia’s Tallest Waterfall (1–2 Days)

Distance: 275 km (3 hours each way)

For a longer adventure, head north-west to Wallaman Falls in Girringun National Park. At 268 metres, it’s Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall.

Highlights

Wallaman Falls Lookout – A jaw-dropping view from the top.
Djyinda Walk – A steep, challenging hike to the base of the falls.
Camping & Wildlife – Spot cassowaries, platypus, and possums if you stay overnight.

👉 Redspot Tip: Consider a 4WD rental for this trip, especially in wet conditions.

Driving Tips for Townsville Road Trips

Pack for the tropics: Even in winter, Townsville stays warm — bring sun protection, swim gear, and plenty of water.
Check ferry bookings: If taking your car to Magnetic Island, book the ferry in advance.
Fuel up early: Some regional stops have limited fuel stations, so top up in Townsville before heading out.
Watch for wildlife: Especially at dawn and dusk on rural highways.