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Peak season
The unofficial capital of Queensland, Townsville attracts visitors from all over the world for its prime location near the Great Barrier Reef and for beautiful Magnetic Island, a world heritage national park with pristine beaches and bush where you can swim all year round. Townsville makes a good base for day trips to Cairns, Paluma, Jourama Falls, Charters Towers, and once you’ve explored the city attractions. The peak tourist season in Townsville is from May to September characterised by cooler temperatures, clear blue skies and gentle tropical breezes. Christmas, Easter and mid-year school holidays are busy periods to note when booking flight tickets.
Off Season
The hot, wet months from November to March are not generally considered the best time to visit Townsville. Daytime temps average 30C to 33C and there is a good chance of cyclones from January to March. However if you’re into sport and outdoor adventure, then Adventure thon at the end of March is a good reason to book flights to Townsville.
Due to its position on the east coast of Queensland, Townsville experiences less rainfall than other parts of the region and has over 300 sunshine days per year. The best time to book cheap flights to Townsville is any time during spring, winter and autumn. Travel during these seasons and you’ll enjoy more settled weather, temps averaging 25C to 27C and prime time snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. Avoid the hot and sticky summers bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms and the possibility of tropical cyclones.
Flights from Sydney to Townsville – 2 hrs 43 mins
Flights from Melbourne to Townsville – 3 hrs 10 mins
Flights from Brisbane to Townsville – 1 hr 59 mins
Flights from Perth to Townsville – 3 hrs 40 mins
Jetstar operates direct flights to Townsville from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, while Qantas operates direct flights from Brisbane, Cairns and Darwin. Other domestic airlines that operate flights to Townsville and offer direct or connecting flights are: Virgin Australia, JetGo, Regional Express, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand and American Airlines.
Townsville Airport (TSV) is located approximately 5 km from the city centre. There’s an Airport Shuttle bus that does drop-offs to various hotels and motels, the Strand and city. Taxis are available, as well as several car rental companies situated in the airport. Magnetic Island and Palm Island are connected to the mainland by regular ferry service.