People's Choice Award - Tours, Attractions and Experiences
Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive
Be mesmerised by the wonders of the Central Great Barrier Reef, with Townsville's most awarded tour operator. We have been sharing the wonder of the Central Great Barrier Reef since 1987, offering tours and courses to help you see the Reef, whether you’re a beginner, an experienced diver or seeking your own dive qualification. We are the only snorkel and dive operator to travel directly from Townsville and Magnetic Island to the Great Barrier Reef. Being based in Townsville, we are perfectly situated to access premier snorkelling and diving attractions, including the Museum of Underwater Art at John Brewer Reef, the iconic S.S. Yongala Wreck, and more.
Aquascene Magnetic
Personalised tours full of stunning scenery, stories and unique places. Our crew are passionate Island residents that love being on the water, sharing a story or two and absolutely love what they do.
Big Mama Sailing
Big Mama Sailing is owned and operated by a small family (Stu, Lisa, Fletcher and boat dog Coco). They offer a personalised and memorable sailing experience for small exclusive groups on a Half Day, Full Day Tour, Sunset Sailing and Private Charters. They operate from both Townsville and Magnetic Island on board their three sailing vessels, Big Mama (60ft) and Ragamuffin 111(48ft) & Samurai(60ft). Bring your own alcohol is welcome is welcome all vessels. Big Mama is a beautiful and well maintained Adams Ketch. Both Stu, Lisa and boat dog Coco live on board, so they are welcoming you into their home. Big Mama has plenty of deck space to relax in a bean bag, a comfortable inside saloon area or join in the fun and action of sailing and other water activities. Big Mama offers catering on her tours. Ragamuffin 111 (Fletcher's home), & Samurai, have a colourful history of racing, well known for her involvement in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, other offshore racing but now focus on supporting local Queensland yacht racing. Both, vessels have been restored and offers a unique experience for small groups, water activities included and bring your own beverages and nibbles is welcome. Big Mama Sailing offers an unforgettable experience!
Billabong Sanctuary
Locally owned and operated for 40 years, Billabong Sanctuary is Australia's best interactive wildlife experience. At Billabong, you can get up close and personal with our Koalas, Wombats, Cassowaries, Saltwater Crocodiles or the elusive Greater Bilby. Our knowledgeable rangers provide daily presentations and feeding shows for our visitors with an emphasis on learning about the unique characteristics that our animals have developed to live in the amazing Australian bush. Our rangers are passionate about providing the vital conservation message, beit tailored to one of our private school educational tours or sharing their knowledge with an international guest. We feature the opportunity for visitors to feed Meerkats or Crocodiles, hold a koala or be photographed with a lizard or snake. We have an ongoing mission to tread lightly on the planet by encouraging environmental responsibility, whilst teaching our visitors about the amazing animals in our park and working actively to assist in breeding of endangered
CopperString Experience Centre
The CopperString Experience Centre brings to Townsville an immersive engagement hub exploring the electrical superhighway of the North. Educating and inspiring the next generation of energy workers, this state-of-the-art facility boasts 8 educational zones with interactive exhibits for hands-on learning. Discover the history of energy in Queensland, explore the largest economic development project in the North and North West, and uncover the pivotal role of renewable energy in Queensland’s future. A unique experience awaits with each visit, as School Holidays Programs and special weekend events offers something new and unforgettable.
Hidden Valley Cabins & Tours
Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours is Australia’s first solar-powered, off-grid resort. We offer short stays, tailored itineraries, and wildlife tours focused on edutourism and STEM programs. Experience the stunning Australian bush and ancient rainforests, all while enjoying adventure, relaxation, and education. Family-owned, just 1.5 hours from Townsville and Ingham.
Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre
Welcome to Ingham, the gateway to the Hinchinbrook region. The Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre is located conveniently on the Bruce Highway on the southern side of Ingham. This fully accredited centre is operated by friendly staff brimming with local knowledge. Immerse yourself in interactive displays showcasing the wonders of the TYTO Wetlands. Browse the curated section of souvenirs, postcards and locally sourced products. Make the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre your first stop in Ingham and the key to 'Find Your Hinchinbrook Way'.
Magnetic Island Tours
With its idyllic location amidst Australia's breathtaking landscapes, Magnetic Island has captivated travellers for centuries. Their knowledgeable local guides will take you on a journey through time and nature, revealing the island's fascinating past and abundant wildlife. The tour includes a relaxing hour at Horseshoe Bay for a self-catered lunch, giving you plenty of time to savor the island's delights at your own pace. After the tour, you can choose to stay and explore or head back to the Ferry Terminal, knowing that you've experienced the irresistible allure of Magnetic Island firsthand.
MI Ride Discovery Tours
MI Ride Discovery Tours provides guided eco-friendly bus adventures on Magnetic Island, giving visitors unique access to the island’s natural wonders, World Heritage values, and hidden landscapes. As one of the island’s few land-based operators, we create sustainable, educational, and community-focused experiences that connect people to the true spirit of the island.
Mungalla Station
Discover Mungalla Station – A Journey Through Culture, History and Nature Come and meet the Nywaigi Aboriginal people, the Traditional Owners of the lands around Ingham in North Queensland. Immerse yourself in their rich culture and history, and learn about the often brutal conflict between the Nywaigi people and European settlers that helped shape the destiny of North Queensland. Explore Mungalla Station, first established by James Cassady, who fled the Irish potato famine to create a pastoral dynasty in the region. Visit the birthplace of the world-famous Droughtmaster cattle breed, step inside the original homestead, and see the resting place of James Cassady and his son. Wander through the Mungalla wetlands, restored from the devastation of introduced weeds, and marvel at the magnificent aquatic birdlife that now thrives there. Be moved by the remarkable story of the Aboriginal people from Mungalla Station and surrounding areas, who were once exhibited as “cannibals” and “savages” in 19th-century circuses and sideshows across Europe and America. This powerful history is brought to life in an award-winning pictorial exhibition, permanently housed in the historic homestead. Get hands-on with authentic cultural experiences. Try your skill at throwing a boomerang and making it return, join in a traditional underground cooking feast known as a Kup Murri, or enjoy one of our hearty country-style BBQs with your group.
Museum of Underwater Art
The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) is a major underwater sculpture installation on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. MOUA Ltd was established in early 2017 to provide governance and management support to the Museum and to work with agencies including the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to obtain permits for its installations. Later in 2017 with support from the corporate tourism sector and the Queensland Government, MOUA contracted acclaimed international artist Jason deCaires Taylor to develop an underwater museum on the Great Barrier Reef to ‘inspire reef conversations’ with the broader themes included reef protection, science, traditional owner culture and environment. MOUA continues to attract strong local, national and international visitors to its sites and exhibitions. Four commercial dive / tourism operators based in Townsville operate tours to the site. The site continues to adopt coral growth organically and continues to aggregate fish species.
Pilgrim Magnetic Island
Pilgrim Magnetic Island offers small, barefoot-luxury sailing experiences with a focus on gourmet food, premium local wines, and genuine hospitality. With small groups, eco-certified practices, and a classic yacht with a story, every sail feels effortless, personal, and unforgettable.
Pleasure Divers
Pleasure Divers Magnetic Island is the island's longest running dive centre, delivering safe, sustainable and world class scuba and snorkelling experiences for over 25 years. Guided by our values of professionalism, environmental responsibility and authentic island hospitality, we invite guests to leave the surface behind and discover the Great Barrier Reef with confidence. Recognised as leaders in our field, we combine expert training, local knowledge, and eco-conscious practices to create unforgettable experiences that protect and celebrate the reef.
Poseidon Adventures
Poseidon Jet Ski Tours is a premier adventure tourism operator offering eco-guided jet ski tours and hire in the Townsville region. We showcase North Queensland’s stunning marine environment through thrilling yet environmentally conscious experiences. Departing from Breakwater Marina, our tours explore spectacular locations such as Magnetic Island, Cape Cleveland, and Bay Rock, giving guests the opportunity to snorkel vibrant reefs, feed tropical fish, and discover hidden coves and beaches accessible only by water. With a commitment to safety, sustainability, and exceptional customer service, we provide a unique way for locals and visitors alike to experience the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Whether seeking an adrenaline-filled ride or a scenic marine wildlife encounter, Poseidon Jet Ski Tours delivers unforgettable adventures that highlight the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Townsville coastline.
Texas Longhorn Tours
Experience Australia’s “Texas in the Outback” — where the Aussie bush meets the Old West. Established in 2009, Texas Longhorn Tours brings history to life with one of the last remaining horse-drawn wagon ride adventures in Australia, along with the original Texas Longhorn Safari. Marvel at some of the longest-horned cattle in the world — direct descendants of the millions of Texas Longhorns that walked the great trail herds from Texas in the late 1800s — and discover how the legend of the cowboy was born. Get up close — and sometimes personal — with this magnificent herd of genuine full-blood Texas Longhorns. With more 100+ inch horned cattle on display than anywhere else in the world, including two world record holders, it’s a sight you’ll never forget. If you’re exploring North Queensland, this is an absolute must-see experience.
