- Must visit
Museum of Tropical Queensland
Museum on The Strand exploring Tropical Queensland history, natural science and shipwrecks through family-friendly displays.
Cheapest price on 17 Oct
£27
Average ticket price on 17 Oct
£43
Fastest journey on 17 Oct
4 h 5 m
Average journey duration on 17 Oct
4 h 21 m
Buses on 17 Oct
4
Distance
229 km
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Airlie Beach to Townsville is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Airlie Beach to Townsville will cost around £43 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £27.
On Sat 17 Oct, we found 4 buses from Airlie Beach to Townsville, including 4 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 229 km distance in an average of 4 h 21 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 5 m .
The slowest buses will take 4 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixBus
PM16
GX402
GX404
FlixBus
PM16
GX402
GX404Buses from Airlie Beach to Townsville run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 22:55, the last at 23:20. The fastest coach covers the 229 km distance in 4h 5m.
Distance 229 km |
Average bus duration 4h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 5m |
First bus 22:55 |
Last bus 23:20 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
The table below shows live departures for Airlie Beach to Townsville coaches for tomorrow, Saturday 17 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GX402 | 8:10 Airlie Beach, Port of Airlie | 4h30 | 12:40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 9:20 Airlie Beach, Port of Airlie | 4h05 | 13:25 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 changesdirect | |
PM16 | 9:30 Airlie Beach, Port of Airlie | 4h20 | 13:50 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 changesdirect | |
GX404 | 9:50 Airlie Beach, Port of Airlie | 4h30 | 14:20 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Townsville — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Townsville trip today.
Museum on The Strand exploring Tropical Queensland history, natural science and shipwrecks through family-friendly displays.
Major regional gallery showing North Queensland art, touring exhibitions and strong collections in a central waterfront setting.
Contemporary gallery at James Cook University featuring rotating exhibitions and opportunities to see local creative practice.
Scenic waterfront promenade popular for walking, swimming, public art and sea views across Cleveland Bay.
Granite monolith and lookout reached by road or hiking track, famous for sunrise, sunset and city panoramas.
Large botanic garden with rainforest plantings, shaded walks, birdlife and tranquil lakes near the city centre.
North Queensland mud crab is prized for sweet, rich flesh, often served simply chilled or with garlic so the region’s tropical seafood quality stands out.
Barramundi is a classic northern Australian fish, commonly grilled or pan-fried. It is a local favourite thanks to its mild flavour and firm, flaky texture.
Tiger prawns from tropical Queensland are a local staple, typically cooked on the barbecue or served fresh, showcasing the area’s strong seafood culture.
Waterside fine dining focused on modern Australian cooking and local seafood, with polished service and views over the marina.
Long-running seafood spot popular for fresh local catch, oysters, and casual meals near the marina and ferry terminal.
Well-known brewery and restaurant serving house beers, pub classics, and relaxed waterfront dining in a heritage-style setting.
Moderate for Australia. Hotels and dining are pricier than in smaller Asian hubs, but local buses and casual meals keep visitor costs manageable.
Tipping is not expected. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Taxis may be rounded up, and cafés generally do not require tips.
Official public transport app
Townsville Breakwater Terminal -> Townsville City
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Airlie Beach to Townsville by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Townsville, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Airlie Beach to Townsville buses use the Airlie Beach, Port of Airlie to Townsville, Breakwater Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Airlie Beach and Townsville bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Townsville, Breakwater Terminal is 2 km from Townsville city centre. Public transport options include:
Townsville, Breakwater Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal. ATMs are an ATM is located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal.
Available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal: Accessible entrances and pathways are provided.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need