The Strand (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Strand?
What makes it 84% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 have a free splash park, shaded playgrounds, fishing pier and shallow rockpool with lifeguards; stinger nets and warning signs add protection but parents must monitor during peak heat.
Positives:
- Lifeguard Patrols: Staffed beach and rockpool offer extra safety for young swimmers.
- Easy Access Facilities: Showers, toilets and baby-change rooms are close to all play areas.
Challenges:
- Strong Sunlight: UV index can spike; bring hats, sunscreen and cover-ups.
- Stinger Season: Jellyfish may drift close March–May; use stinger nets and baths.
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 kids?
- Free water park with slides and sprays
- Salt-water rockpool with lifeguards
- Shaded playgrounds for different age groups
- Safe, palm-lined Oceanway walk along the bay
- Easy facilities with showers, toilets and baby-change
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to enjoy the water park, rockpool, playgrounds and a beach stroll without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Strand
The Strand Water Park:
Slides, tipping buckets and shallow play area for ages 2–12.
Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid queues and use nearby shaded picnic tables.
Rockpool Swim:
Patrolled salt-water pool with gentle ramp entry.
Tip: Bring water shoes for the rocky edges and use the free outdoor showers afterward.
Strand Park Playgrounds:
Separate junior and teen play zones plus half-court for ball games.
Tip: Check the shade patterns and head to the toddler area if sun exposure is high.
Fish off The Strand Pier:
Cast a line from the pier for whiting and bream.
Tip: Rent rods on Flinders Street and pack light tackle and bait for a quick session.
Oceanway Promenade Walk:
2.2 km flat path with palm-lined views of Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island.
Tip: Bring scooters or bikes for kids and stop at the Banyan trees for a snack break.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Strand
- Early Arrival: Come before 10 am to secure shade, parking and uncrowded play areas.
- Pack a Picnic: Use the free BBQ and picnic tables to save on meal costs.
When is the best time to visit The Strand (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
From November to May, watch for jellyfish. Swim inside the stinger baths and wear protective swimwear, especially on warmer days.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking (2–3 hours) | AUD 5 |
| Snacks and drinks for family | AUD 30 |
| Fishing gear rental | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 45 |
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
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides The Strand (Great Barrier Reef Area)?
About The Strand
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, with kids
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities