Townsville

Townsville is the stepping stone to Magnetic and Orpheus Islands - visually stunning islands yet not overcrowded by tourists and commercialisation. With white sandy beaches and gently warmed waters lapping at the shoreline you'll feel the first breath of paradise. Exotic fish and birds can be found if you quietly observe them and the colours of the aquatic life and surrounding flora and fauna are exquisite. Diving and snorkelling day trips and tours are available in abundance, or try your hand at fishing and catch a sumptuous reef fish for your supper.

Back on the mainland, Townsville will spoil you for choice with its eateries, bars, clubs and entertainment. There are multiple food and drink festivals including the Australian Italian Festival which offers up tasty samples of many varieties of food. Also worth a visit is the Pacific Blue Winery where you can sample local speciality wines.

Castle Hill is another gemstone in Townsville's treasure chest - a red rock monolith in the centre of Townsville where panoramic views of the city are laid out before you.