The Strand (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is The Strand?
What makes it 75% Baby-Friendly: Pram mats, level paths, baby swings and change tables suit infants, and the rockpool has a gentle ramp; lack of formal nursing rooms and strong sun require planning so suitability is good not perfect.
Positives:
- Free Entry: Access to the promenade, water park and rockpool is free.
- Lifeguard Supervision: Lifeguards patrol the beach, rockpool and water park daily.
Challenges:
- Stinger Net Schedule: Beach access mats and stinger nets are in place only Friday 10:30 am to Saturday 3 pm.
- No Dedicated Nursing Rooms: Use family or accessible toilets for privacy and changing needs.
What is The Strand?
- A 2.2 km palm-lined promenade that follows the foreshore of Townsville’s Cleveland Bay
- A coastal parkland precinct that combines golden-sand beach, saltwater rockpool lagoon and landscaped gardens
- A public waterfront open space punctuated by sculptural art, water-play installations and picnic lawns
What is so special about The Strand for with baby?
- Sealed, shaded promenade ideal for strollers
- Free water-play at The Strand Water Park
- Shallow, baby-safe entry at the rockpool
- Beach access mats for pram access to sand
- Picnic spots and baby-friendly cafés nearby
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to enjoy the water park, rockpool, promenade strolls and a picnic without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in The Strand
Stroller-friendly Promenade:
Walk along the sealed, flat path lined with palms and benches.
Tip: Bring your stroller and pause at shaded benches every 100 m to rest.
The Strand Water Park:
Let your baby splash in tipping buckets and gentle fountains.
Tip: Visit outside peak hours for fewer crowds and active lifeguard coverage.
Rockpool Paddle:
Enjoy the salt-water pool with a gently sloping entry perfect for babies.
Tip: Bring a baby swim vest and move to nearby shade between paddles.
Picnic Under Banyan Trees:
Spread out on the grass in Anzac Memorial Park’s shaded areas.
Tip: Pack a blanket and snacks; use nearby toilets with change tables.
Baby-friendly Café Stop:
Choose from cafés offering high chairs and baby-change facilities.
Tip: Check opening times and call ahead to reserve a high chair.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Strand
- Arrive Early: Get there before 10 am to secure shade and find free parking nearby.
- Plan for Mats: Time your beach play on Friday and Saturday when pram mats are installed to reach the water easily.
When is the best time to visit The Strand (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
From November to May stinger season applies. Swim only in netted areas at the rockpool and water park. Consider a full-body stinger suit for any open-water play.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic supplies | AUD 15 |
| Café snack & drink | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 35 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Strand
Address: The Strand, Townsville QLD 4810, Australia
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