North Shore: Nature, Community & Modern Living
Updated: August 3, 2026
Discover Townsville's northern heart, where wetlands meet world-class leisure facilities.
The Great Outdoors
Explore Burdell Forest trails and enjoy over 42km of walking and cycling paths that wind through bushland and coastal wetlands.
Family & Leisure
The Northern Beaches Leisure Centre offers an Olympic-sized pool, water slides, and a splash park — perfect for families year-round.
Local Flavors
North Shore Marketplace is the local hub for groceries, cafés, and services. The North Shore Tavern is a favourite for relaxed meals and live sport.
Burdell Forest & Wetlands
Tucked behind the newer estates, the Burdell Wetlands are one of Townsville's best-kept secrets for birdwatching and nature photography. Early mornings bring a chorus of brolgas, jabirus, and kingfishers across the still water.
The flat, well-maintained boardwalks make it accessible for all fitness levels. It's also a dog-friendly area (on lead), so bring your four-legged walking partner along for a peaceful morning loop.
♿ 100% Paved & Flat. Excellent for prams and mobility aids.
Trail Guide
Bohle River Wetlands & Forest Trails
The primary trailhead is at Erskine Place. Park at the Northern Beaches Leisure Centre or Northshore Skate Park; the paved path begins at the northern edge of the parkland.Open Trailhead in Google Maps
Accessibility Tip
This is a 100% pram and wheelchair-friendly loop. For the best birdwatching, head toward the Main Street bridge section at sunrise.
Pro-Tip: Gateway to the North
North Shore is the perfect staging point for a day trip to Saunders Beach or Toolakea—just a 15-minute drive further north.
Seasonal Tip
The Wetlands Loop is at its absolute best through the dry season. The early-season lushness mellows into crisp, clear mornings, and the brolgas and jabirus are incredibly active at sunrise. Cool dry-season mornings are perfect for the 3.5km loop before the UV index climbs.
Dog Owners (Dry Season Tip)
Those cooling dry season breezes make the North Shore trails ideal for larger breeds. Just a reminder to keep dogs on-lead through the Bohle River Wetlands to protect the nesting brolgas.
Northern Beaches Leisure Centre
With an Olympic-sized pool, water slides, a toddler splash park, and a gym, this is North Shore's flagship community facility. It's busy on weekends but quieter during weekday mornings — a local favourite for lap swimmers.
View on Google MapsPro-Tip: The Local's Pool
If the ocean is a bit rough or you're keeping an eye on stinger season, this is the local's alternative. With four pools and plenty of shade, it's a high-quality facility that feels like a resort but functions like a community hub.
Winter Swim Tip
With the dry season in full swing, the Northern Beaches Leisure Centre is the local's go-to for a worry-free swim on a sunny winter afternoon — the slides are a hit with the kids while the lap pool stays quiet on weekday mornings.
North Shore Marketplace
The social hub of North Shore — home to a Woolworths, specialty shops, medical services, and a growing café scene. It's where locals grab their morning coffee and weekend supplies.
View on Google MapsPro-Tip: The Coffee Tree
The Coffee Tree is the heartbeat of the morning here. It's a great 'Quiet Business' spot to sit with a laptop or meet a friend before heading to the nearby markets.
View our full Townsville Accessibility Guide for more mobility-friendly locations.
Getting There
North Shore is a 15-minute drive from the Townsville CBD via the Stuart Drive / Woolcock Street corridor. Free parking is available at the Leisure Centre and North Shore Marketplace.
View on Google Maps🏟️ Dry Season Home Games at QCB Stadium
The North Shore Tavern is the local heartbeat for Cowboys home games through the dry season. Catch upcoming fixtures at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on the big screens, or make it your pre-game lunch stop before walking down to the Stampede.
Read the Cowboys GuideExplore More of Townsville
North Shore is just one part of the story. Discover beaches, food, and events across the city.
About this guide
Written by Duncan Ross
Duncan has lived in Townsville since 2023 and writes Townsville Guide using local knowledge and carefully checked information.
This guide is based on research and official information. It does not claim firsthand experience.
Last checked: August 2026
This article primarily contains local observations and general visitor advice.
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