There’s a massive misconception about Townsville and everything it has to offer, but it couldn’t be further from the truth.While some Aussies and tourists alike write it off as just an overnight stopover to Magnetic Island, there’s so much more to this coastal city than you may think. Townsville, known as the unofficial capital of North Queensland, is packed with hidden gems that go beyond hotspots like The Strand.The 2.2km beachfront promenade is filled with restaurants and bars that serve up spectacular water views – but if you venture beyond the palm tree-lined stretch, you’ll be surprised what you can uncover.“We know that our locals love exploring their own backyard and we’re seeing that same enthusiasm from visitors,” Townsville enterprise director of Visitor Economy and Marketing, Lisa Woolfe, said. “During a recent campaign, we saw interstate visitor expenditure up by more than 20 per cent, while visitation from New South Wales grew by 30 per cent.” She said visitors are quickly discovering that the North Queensland hotspot offers far more than they expected. “Whether it’s reef experiences, island escapes, outback adventures or vibrant city experiences, it’s a destination that continues to surprise visitors,” Ms Woolfe told news.com.au.She said Townsville has a real “underdog advantage”, adding it’s often a destination people discover by chance, “but they leave wondering why they didn’t visit sooner”.It boasts some under-the-radar treasures, from hidden rainforest waterfalls and speak-easy bars to offshore art installations. Take the Paluma Range National Park, for example. It’s located just an hour drive north, and offers secluded swims at Triple Falls and Ethel Creek Falls, as well as platypus spotting.If you want to get your heart pumping, the JCU Stairs will do exactly that for you. It’s on the Douglas Hills James Cook University Walking Track and involves 493 steps, serving stunning panoramic views of Mount Stuart and the ocean.Of course, a visit to the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) is a must. You can dive or snorkel at John Brewer Reef to see the spectacular underwater gallery. “For those seeking a truly one-of-a-kind experience, the MOUA offers an unforgettable blend of art, conservation and tourism,” Ms Woolfe said. It’s created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, where the “Coral Greenhouse” and “Ocean Sentinels” beautifully merge art with marine science.“We have all the charms and benefits of the iconic tropical holiday destination, but without the cookie cutter experience,” Ms Woolfe said.“Here, you’ll fall into step with locals and experience real North Queensland.” Magnetic Island is just a 20-minute ferry ride from the mainland, and is a must if you’ve never been, but ensure you add a few extra days to your stay to uncover all the other hidden gems. “Visitors can enjoy an island escape at their own pace,” Ms Woolfe said. “Whether it’s snorkelling the secluded bays, spotting wildlife, taking a sunset walk along the beach or adding a little adventure with a jet ski tour, there’s something for every type of traveller.“From northern Australia’s largest colony of koalas on Magnetic Island to the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef and the awe of the Outback, Townsville North Queensland really does offer something special for visitors to explore.”To help getting there without having to break the budget, Queensland is now on sale with Jetstar flights from $53. Sydney (Western Sydney) to Gold Coast. Sale ends 11:59pm AEST Sunday, June 28, 2026, unless sold out. One-way, excludes checked bags. Travel dates and conditions apply.