Local guide · Pimlico, Townsville
Explore Townsville
Things to do in Townsville, from our favourite local cafés to The Strand, Castle Hill and Magnetic Island — to help you make the most of your stay at Freda Apartment.
Coffee & breakfast
Coffee and breakfast close by
Pimlico is a great base for exploring Townsville, with local cafés, restaurants, shopping and the city centre close by.
49 French Street, Pimlico
Bloom Espresso
A great local coffee stop and one of the closest options to the apartment — perfect for a morning coffee and something to eat before heading out.
Gill Park, Pimlico
The Coffee Tree
A relaxed local coffee spot that’s particularly handy for a morning takeaway.
Bayswater Road, Hyde Park
Green Mug Cafe
A popular local café for breakfast, brunch and coffee — a good choice for a leisurely sit-down breakfast.
Also try Fat Dogz Cafe on Hammett Street, Currajong, and Pedlar Project on Flinders Street in the city.
Places to eat
Easy dinners and dining with a view
French Street, Pimlico
Dumplings & bao
A fantastic nearby option for an easy dinner — very convenient if you don’t want to travel far after a busy day exploring.
The Strand
The Watermark
Dinner or drinks with beautiful waterfront views, right on The Strand.
Flinders Street, Townsville City
The Balcony Restaurant
A relaxed city dining option that’s particularly nice for breakfast or lunch.
Heading into the city? Flinders Street offers plenty of choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Townsville must-dos
The Strand, Castle Hill and Magnetic Island
Beachfront promenade
The Strand
Walking and cycling paths, swimming areas, picnic spots and views across to Magnetic Island. Take a morning walk, swim at the Strand Rockpool or stay for sunset.
Lookout & walking tracks
Castle Hill
Drive to the lookout for 360-degree views over Townsville, the Coral Sea and Magnetic Island. Please follow current track signage on the walking tracks.
A short ferry ride away
Magnetic Island
Beaches, walking tracks, wildlife, snorkelling and relaxed island cafés. Visit Horseshoe Bay and look out for koalas and rock wallabies — allow a full day.
Tip: early morning and late afternoon are cooler times to explore. Check ferry times and consider booking ahead for Magnetic Island.
Gardens, wildlife & history
More things to do in Townsville
Australian wildlife
Billabong Sanctuary
See koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, wombats and many other native animals, with animal presentations and close-up encounters.
Anderson Park · Queens Gardens · The Palmetum
Botanic gardens
Lovely for a relaxing stroll, photography or a quiet morning away from the busier attractions.
Northern end of The Strand
Jezzine Barracks & Kissing Point
A historic precinct combining military history, coastal walks and beautiful views — an easy addition to a visit to The Strand.
Also worth exploring: Pallarenda and the Town Common, the Paluma Range rainforest, Queensland Museum Tropics, the Museum of Underwater Art and Great Barrier Reef experiences. Please check opening hours and tour availability before heading out.
Handy to know
Local tips for your stay
Close to Pimlico
Castletown Shoppingworld
Useful for groceries, shopping, takeaway food and everyday essentials during your stay.
Townsville CBD
Visitor information
The Townsville Visitor Information Centre can provide maps, brochures, bookings and local advice.
Tropical living
Local tips
Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, carry water, pack insect repellent and have a wet-weather plan — museums, cafés and shopping are great alternatives.
Slow down, enjoy the sunshine and make the most of your time in North Queensland. Enquire about staying at Freda Apartment