Mackay

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland
Cape Hillsborough National Park showing cuddly or friendly animals and a sunset
Cape Hillsborough National Park featuring a sunset and general coastal views as well as a couple
Cape Hillsborough National Park showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and landscape views
Cape Hillsborough National Park showing cuddly or friendly animals

Explore wild native hinterland and dense jungle, swim in warm lagoons and enjoy fresh local seafood at this tropical city on Queensland’s northern coast.

Mackay is a scenic tropical city on the border between Northern and Central Queensland, looking out over the turquoise Coral Sea. Located at the mouth of the Pioneer River and surrounded by national park hinterland and dense tropical rainforest, the city and surrounding region offers an array of fantastic natural attractions. Visit Mackay to experience its picturesque marina, fresh seafood and family-friendly swimming lagoon.

Stroll through the historic town centre that features a selection of charming art deco buildings and various mosaics and sculptures. Check out the Bombora, or Bommie, a large wave-shaped sculpture and bench decorated in the multicoloured hues of the Great Barrier Reef and nearby rainforests.

Follow the Bluewater Trail, a 20-kilometre (12.4-mile) network of pedestrian and cycling paths that connects the Bluewater Lagoon to East Mackay, West Mackay and the Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens. Visit the gardens to explore a lush, tropical oasis featuring beautiful native flora.

Relax in the warm waters of Bluewater Lagoon, a three-tiered swimming lagoon and leisure facility that overlooks the scenic Pioneer River. Kids will enjoy the children’s water playground. Pack a barbecue lunch and spend the day in the tropical sunshine.

Visit the Mackay Marina Village to explore the magnificent waterfront esplanade. Take in the view of palm trees, luxury yachts and the ocean while enjoying dinner at a fine dining restaurant. Book a tour from the marina and choose from fishing, sailing, hiking and platypus-spotting trips.

Head out on a hinterland adventure to experience the beautiful Eungella National Park, complete with bushwalking trails and picturesque waterfalls. Airlie Beach, the gateway to Queensland’s stunning Whitsunday Islands, is located approximately a 2-hour drive away.

Enjoy warm weather year-round but be prepared for tropical rainstorms in summer. Swim at designated beaches with lifeguards to avoid injury from the Coral Sea’s stingers and jellyfish.

Mackay is located on Queensland’s scenic northeast coast. Flights from Brisbane arrive daily to Mackay Airport, located 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) south of the city centre.

Where to stay in Mackay

Out on the southern break wall over looking the sugar stacks as the sun sets.

Mackay Harbour

Mackay Harbour is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard and Floodway Conservation Area.

Mackay Harbour
Looking out from the Illawong beach resort. One of many beach resorts in the area

South Mackay

South Mackay is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Great Barrier Reef Arena and Illawong Beach.

South Mackay
The magnificent orchid

North Mackay

Travelers like the shopping in North Mackay, and Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens is a top attraction you might want to visit.

North Mackay
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West Mackay

West Mackay is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Pioneer Valley and Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

West Mackay
Nice relaxing start to 2016 here at the @bluepacificresort in @visitmackay! How did you spend the first day of the new year? ☀️🐠🐟🌴😀
#meetmackayregion #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #GoProANZ

Blacks Beach

Visitors to Blacks Beach enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, Blacks Beach Park is worth a stop.

Blacks Beach
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Dolphin Heads

Dolphin Heads is well-liked for its restaurants and gardens. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Eimeo Beach and Bucasia Beach are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Dolphin Heads

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Things to do