Pristine immaculate coastline, endless lingering sunshine and bountiful local produce—Townsville has become a marvel of North Queensland for good reason, with a string of decadent new openings around the charming town awaiting exploration. Boasting an insane 300 days of sunshine per year, this charming seaside gem is definitely worth putting at the top of your travel bucket list for 2024.

To help build out that itinerary, we’ve teamed up with Townsville's hottest new opulent hotel destination Ardo hotel to curate everything to eat, sip and explore on your next luxe escape to tropical Townsville.

Stay

Image Credit: Ardo | Supplied

Ardo

Calm, warming neutral tones, terrazzo and concrete furnishings and spectacular waterfront views—a stay at Ardo is unparalleled in its stunning architecture and meticulous eye for detail that ensures beauty at every corner. Admire the yacht-dotted water from the rooftop infinity pool, rejuvenate among the decadent moody tones of Ardo Day Spa or simply explore the unlimited dining options at your disposal. Perched conveniently in the bustling heart of Townsville's coastal center, you’ll be able to explore endless local boutiques, cafes and sunset lookouts before heading back to your glorious home base.

Eat

Image Credit: Ardo | Supplied

Marmor

Step into the chic marbled minimalist interiors and unearth a culinary celebration of land and sea at the brand spankin’ new Marmor. Each morsel is meticulously sourced from only the country’s finest fresh produce—from prime cuts of beef from Australia’s most renowned cattle producers to the most delicate seafood treasures from across the rugged coastline of the region. Perfect for that magical romantic date night or simply an intimate drink with pals, this is an unmissable dining experience for seafood lovers and fine diners alike.

Terasu

For a lively take on casual Japanese dining that packs a punch, Terasu is a dreamy laidback spot for those wanting to transport their taste buds to the bright lights of Shibuya. Each dish is almost too beautiful to eat with colours bursting off the plate, with their premium offerings of sushi, sashimi, nigiri and ceviche rivaling those served up on the streets of Tokyo. Can’t decide on what to order? Opt for their Feed Me Menu letting the chef take you on a journey of their fave selections while you sip away at one of their luscious signature cocktails (the Tokyo Glow and Matcha Sour are our picks).

Ardo Rooftop

You could easily be mistaken that you’d sauntered out onto a whimsical Greek Island terrace somewhere in Paros as you reach Ardo Rooftop. With awe-inducing, unadulterated views of the sparkling Coral Sea, your picture-perfect sips and tunes are guaranteed as you soak in yet another divine North Queensland afternoon. If you’re a little peckish, grab one of their charcuterie platters, cheese boards or seafood tasters, then simply sit back and marvel in the paradise that surrounds you. 

Play

Image Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland | Supplied

Magnetic Island

With the majestic Magnetic Island only a short thirty-minute ferry ride away, you’d be mad not to spend a day exploring this remote island paradise. Completely untouched by the chaos of modern life, spend the morning hiking around the rocky outcrops, sandy bays and offshore coral gardens or if you’re a history buff, check out the Forts Walk dotted with World War II relics. Home to some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for a cheeky koala munching up in the trees or grab your snorkeling gear and try your luck finding Nemo across the glistening shoreline.

The Museum of Underwater Art

Dive into the enchanting world beneath the waves at the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA). Created by acclaimed artist Jason deCaires Taylor, these sculptures have evolved into living art, providing a unique habitat for coral and marine life. Explore this surreal underwater installation through snorkeling and diving tours offered by various operators, and witness the harmony between art and nature beneath the crystal-clear waters of our precious Great Barrier Reef.

The Ville

Perched next door to Ardo, The Ville offers up guaranteed good vibes for those looking for a seaside drink, swim or play. Test your luck with a bet at the casino, grab a pool pass at the Cabana Bar for a couple of cocktails, or make a reservation for a long lunch at one of their relaxed waterfront dining options.

Wallaman Falls

Adventure seekers, get ready to hit the road and head north west to experience the highest, permanent, single-drop waterfall in all of Australia at the enchanting Wallaman Falls. Home to some of the globe’s oldest living rainforests and most endangered creatures, this Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is a dreamy pit-stop for a refreshing midday cool down in the balmy tropical heat. 

Whether you’re searching for that idyllic romantic honeymoon getaway, a sun-drenched family holiday or an unforgettable seaside vacay with your besties, Ardo is the perfect base for experiencing the very best of paradise.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Ardo and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.

Image Credits: Ardo