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Blending together the best elements of river, coast and aspects of a tropical oasis, Mackay is an ideal destination for travellers looking to combine some of Queensland's best assets in a single location. Visitors to the region can spend ample time visiting the numerous beaches spread around town, hiking through a National Park for impressive valley views, and enjoy many other highlights that push the region far beyond the status of "just a mining town".
Why it's special: Great mixture of tropical getaway location with conveniences of a larger city; lovely mixture of beachfront offerings with inland greenery; plenty of scenic destinations just a short drive away
Best time to go: Shoulder seasons (Autumn / Spring)
A perfect getaway for families, couples or the single traveller, The Mackay Region can offer natural experiences, fun-filled adventures or pure relaxation with a backdrop of gorgeous scenery and amazing sunsets. Whether it’s inland, on the coast or in the City Centre, see nature come to life with unique and rare experiences in The Mackay Region.
A region rich in marine life and natural beauty, Mackay has grown to become an upcoming tourist hot spot on the Queensland coast while also being in close proximity to a number of other popular destinations such as the Whitsundays island chain nearby. The city is a thriving centre for business, recreation and shopping with a swimming lagoon neighbouring the shopping centre which is surrounded by a river and mangrove boardwalk.
Moving further out of the city centre, you'll find the Mackay Marina, a focal point for all things marine - however it isn't merely only an aquatic hub. Suburbs all around Mackay are popular beach getaways with the likes of Blacks Beach, Eimeo, Sarina Beach and Town Beach all viable destinations located just a short distance from the centre. However, one of the most popular beaches lies around a 40 minute drive north of Mackay. Cape Hillsborough is famed for its local kangaroos and wallabies that hang out on the beach at dusk and dawn. Not ones to shy away from visitors or the camera, you can get up close to these Aussie icons with ease, and totally for free.
It's not just Mackay's beaches that are a major drawcard. The neighbouring Pioneer Valley and Eungella regions located inland from Mackay offer some incredible, contrasting sights. Think luscious greenery, freshwater swimming holes and rolling hills and you're on the right track. With cane paddocks almost every where you look the outskirts of Mackay are a gem to explore. Offering visitors the best of both worlds you can easily see why Mackay has grown to become a must-see destination along the Queensland coast.
There is so much to see and do in and around the Mackay region a few days here isn't nearly enough. You can stay in the city centre and explore the nearby attractions such as the Blue Water Quay and Gooseponds or you can venture further out to the Pioneer Valley, grab an iconic pie from the Pinnacle Pub, go for a dip in the Wheel of Fire at Finch Hatton Gorge or relax on a relatively secluded beach in Seaforth.
The region is also brimming with wildlife so animal lovers will be well in their element. If you look hard enough you'll be able to spot koalas, platypus, kangaroos and more while exploring the city and its outskirts. An ideal destination for travellers looking to incorporate numerous sights and attractions, be sure to bring your camera as some of the moments you capture in the region are unlike anything else you've seen before.
What Mackay has to offer:
Highlights that set Mackay apart include:
A coastal getaway void of the typical large crowds of tourists
Numerous quality swimming beaches scattered along the coastline
Lush national parks just a short distance drive from the CBD
Beautifully warm weather year round - even in winter
Ample natural attractions to experience easily accessible nearby
Close proximity to the famous Whitsundays' island wonders
Top Things to Do
Looking to pay a visit to Mackay but not sure what to do? Here are some of its most essential experiences.
Get an even closer look at the sugar cane farming industry with the Sarina Sugar Shed trialing Farm Tours in 2017, aiming to be operational in 2018. The Sarina Sugar Shed is an award-winning miniature sugar mill and distillery.
Take in views from Lamberts Beach Whale Watching Lookout – a new platform to see migrating whales and enjoy the beautiful views over the coral sea.
Popular nearby getaway Keswick Island have added more "glamping" style camp sites complete with hot water.
Regional Air Charter Services are now offering scenic flights around The Mackay Region, as well as flexible, fast, safe, affordable flights of choice.
Articles on Mackay
Need more info on Mackay? Check out our detailed travel features on this top spot below.
Is Mackay Australia's Top Major Destination to Experience for 2017? Vote now for the chance to WIN an epic trip to one of Australia's top destinations!
