Feeling the freeze at home? If midyear is approaching, it’s time to escape for a winter getaway in the Townsville region. Here you can forget the frost and embrace the islands, waterfalls, hikes, and world-class events that a Townsville winter is known for.

Townsville winter? You’re joking, right?

For those used to dusting off their winter coats and gloves, you might feel a tad dubious hearing us in Townsville use the word ‘winter’ and well, you might have a point. Across June, July, and August our winter days are, well, …glorious. With highs of 25 degrees Celsius, night-time lows in the mid-teens and approximately one day of expected rain across the entire season, it’s safe to say that a Townsville winter is the perfect place to get away from the cold and wet version down south. Read on to discover exactly how to make the most of a winter escape to Townsville.

Island winter paradise

If you’ve started your research into your Townsville winter escape, you’ll already know there is a number of gorgeous island paradises just waiting here. From the all-inclusive and luxurious Orpheus Island (best visited via a scenic 30-minute helicopter ride), its neighbour Pelorus Island (home to 1,100 different fish species), the adventurous Hinchinbrook Island and the local’s favourite Magnetic ‘Maggie’ Island, there is an island for every type of traveller. Thanks to the Townsville region’s famous sunny winter days, stock up on your supply of Vitamin D (but remember to always be sun smart) and just try to not feel too sorry for your colleagues trudging through another winter day back home as you soak in island life.

What a time to hike!

Take advantage of Townsville’s fresh winter temperatures by getting out on the trails where there are a number of fantastic hikes to explore. Take on the famous Wallaman Falls, located near Ingham, a 2.25-hour drive north of Townsville city. Here you can admire the falls from above before making the 3.2km return Djyinda walk to its base.

If you like the idea of combining hiking and waterfalls, hit Townsville’s waterfall trilogy. Found in Paluma Range National Park, 90 minutes north of Townsville city, the Townsville waterfall trilogy consists of Ethel Creek Falls, Diorite Falls and Triple Falls. These individual hiking trails range from a 2-3 hours return (Ethel Creek Falls and Triple Falls) to 6-10 hours return (Diorite Falls). While appropriate hiking fitness is required, the cooler temperatures and the fresh rainforest air will make the hike all the more enjoyable. 

A sky full of (winter) stars

Those who love astrophotography know the best time to see the Milky Way in full form in Australia is during the crisp and cloudless winter nights. Escape the light pollution of the cities and head out to the outback. Whether you’re a photographer or not, there is just something so awe-inspiring looking up over an seemingly infinite blanket of twinkling stars and that’s what you get when you visit Charters Towers. 

Take in the million-star view by setting up camp at Charters Towers Tourist Park or the Big4 Aussie Outback Oasis Holiday Park (both also have ensuite cabins available for those who prefer a little more comfort). While you’re here admiring the stars, don’t forgo the classic outback experiences Charters Towers is known for like exploring Queensland’s longest surviving battery, the Venus Gold Battery, gold panning at the Miner’s Cottage, and the ‘Texas in the Outback’ experience at the Texas Longhorn Tours.

Winter Events in the Townsville Region

Townsville North Queensland is famous for its world-class events. So, you’ll want to time your Townsville winter escape with one of the many events happening across the season.

If visiting Townsville early in winter, make sure you visit Ingham. Located a 1.25 hours’ drive north of Townsville city, half of Ingham’s population identifies as Italian or of Italian descent, which makes it the perfect place to host the Australian Italian Festival each winter. Enjoy authentic home-cooked Italian food, workshops, displays and even eating competitions.

If your Townsville winter escape is closer to the end of winter, the Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week is not to be missed. Combining competitive sailing, community and a vibrant atmosphere, this weeklong event is open whether you’re a sailing pro or just want to party at the evening events.

More into events held on dry land? The Townsville 500 is one for the bucket list. Held each winter in Townsville, enjoy a family-friendly weekend of racing, aerial displays, stunt shows and incredible motorsport skills on show.

Wanting to tie your winter escape with more epic Townsville events? We have you covered: Townsville North Queensland events you simply cannot miss.

With all this sunshine and perfect temperatures, it would be rude not to share it. Leave the cold, grey and dreary behind and make your escape this winter to the fresh, sunny days waiting for you in Townsville North Queensland.