Although this stretch is short in distance, it's rich in things to see and do, so take at least a day to explore the vibrant coastal hub of Townsville. Take a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef where you can dive or snorkel with colourful fish, giant turtles and a forest of bright coral. Visit Reef HQ Aquarium where you can experience the world's largest coral reef aquarium and visit the Turtle Hospital. Learn about the HMS Pandora, which sank on the Great Barrier Reef, at the Museum of Tropical Queensland, see local wildlife at Billabong Sanctuary or try fresh regional produce at the North Shore Farmers Market. The Strand runs along the beach and offers many dining, café and bar options. Magnetic Island, just a short boat ride away, is home to a colony of koalas and comes alive with young, energetic locals and visitors from around the world for a monthly full moon party. As you head west towards Charters Towers, call in at Ravenswood to see magnificent restored buildings and mining remnants such as mullock heaps, old shafts and chimneys stacks. Then continue on to Charters Towers, a beautifully preserved part of North Queensland history.