Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 500 m
Frequently asked questions
The Strand Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
The Strand Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
The Strand Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
The Strand Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 2 500 metres.
The Strand Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May, June. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is June. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
The Strand Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
The Strand Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (in season). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
The Strand Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
The Strand Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
The Strand Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Harold-s Seafood on The Strand, Bridgewater Restaurant + Botaniq Bar, Townsville Brewing Co. Cuisines available: Seafood, Modern Australian, Pub. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
The Strand Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Stinger suit (in season), Water, Cash.
The Strand Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best to swim in the morning before 11:00, when the water is calmer and fewer people. During jellyfish season (November–May) swim only in netted areas or the Rockpool.
The Strand Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
During jellyfish season (November–May) swim only in stinger nets or the Rockpool. Dogs are prohibited on the beach. Do not leave litter.
The Strand Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
The Strand Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to safe swimming areas with stinger nets, the free Strand Water Park, the Rockpool saltwater pool and numerous parks and playgrounds. Suitable for active holidaymakers: running, cycling, SUP. Not suitable for surfers — there are virtually no waves, or for those seeking solitude.
The Strand Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of the lively Strand promenade with the free Strand Water Park, the Rockpool saltwater pool and scenic views of Magnetic Island. It is one of the few places in North Queensland where you can safely swim in the sea year-round thanks to stinger nets.
The Strand Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Very long promenade (2.5 km), Lifeguards on duty daily, Stinger nets in season (November–May), Free Strand Water Park, Rockpool saltwater pool, Well-developed infrastructure: cafes, restaurants, parks, Scenic views of Magnetic Island, Free entry. Cons: Crowded on weekends and holidays, Little natural shade at midday, Jellyfish risk in season (November–May), Traffic noise, Parking can be full in peak season, Limited surfing infrastructure.
The Strand Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Magnetic Island, Rockpool, Strand Water Park, Jezzine Barracks, Castle Hill. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
The Strand Beach: how do I get to the city of Townsville?
The beach is located near the city of Townsville. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Townsville.