Is there a train to Townsville?

Yes, the Spirit of Queensland train runs from Brisbane to Townsville.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 16 to 18 hours of driving time.

Yes, the M1 Motorway between Gold Coast and Brisbane has tolls.

No, flights from Gold Coast usually require a connection in Brisbane.

What is the best road?

The Bruce Highway (A1) is the primary route.

Burleigh Heads

Townsville

Flight Driving

Burleigh Heads to Townsville

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Burleigh Heads to Townsville spans approximately 1,400 kilometers along the Queensland coastline. Most travelers prefer a direct flight from Gold Coast Airport to Townsville Airport to save time. Driving via the Bruce Highway takes roughly 16 hours of pure transit time, excluding stops. You will pass through major hubs like Brisbane, Rockhampton, and Mackay. This route offers a transition from the surf culture of the Gold Coast to the tropical gateway of the Great Barrier Reef.

Total Distance: 1,400 km driving distance; 1,250 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight via Brisbane is the fastest, taking under 3 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheapest for groups of three or more people.

Compare Burleigh Heads to Townsville Routes

	Flight Connecting via Brisbane	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	16 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $450	$250 - $350 fuel
Operator	Qantas	Personal Vehicle
Route	Gold Coast Airport (OOL) to Townsville Airport (TSV).	M1 Motorway to Bruce Highway (A1).
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Watch for speed cameras near Gympie and Rockhampton.

Travel Tips

Highway Fatigue
The Bruce Highway is long; stop every two hours to avoid driver fatigue.
Sun Protection
Townsville is tropical; wear SPF 50+ sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Toll Roads
Ensure your vehicle has a toll tag for the M1 Motorway near Brisbane.
Water Supplies
Keep at least 5 liters of drinking water in your car for long stretches.
Booking Flights
Use the Gold Coast Airport (OOL) rather than Brisbane (BNE) to save travel time.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize risk of kangaroo collisions.
Flood Zones
Check road reports for the Bruce Highway during the wet season.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police and roadside assistance numbers in your phone.
Stinger Season
Swim only in netted areas at beaches during the summer months.