Exploring Mackay
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A trip to Mackay will include endless opportunities to explore untouched natural pockets of national parks, pristine beaches, rainforest and hinterland.
This unique region of Queensland offers connection with wildlife and nature, a scatter of quiet country towns and a bustling and vibrant city centre.
Fun fact: Mackay is the best spot in Australia to view a platypus in the wild!
Things to do
Activities
Hiking, swimming, treetops,
fossiking and exploring
Get close to nature
Kangaroos, turkeys, echidnas,
possums and turtles all live here
Hospitality
Try the local flavours,
food and drink
Travel, Accommodation and Tours
Just an hour west of Mackay, Eungella National Park features over 22 kilometres of walking trails through towering tropical rainforest, with unforgettable views over the mountains and sugar cane fields in the Pioneer Valley.
Stop at Finch Hatton Gorge and hike up to the unmissable (and often secluded) natural swimming holes, for a stunning splash.
For an extraordinary way to immerse yourself in the treetop canopy, check out Forest Flying – Mackay’s rainforest flying fox.
Continue on to Broken River in Eungella to spot a platypus in the wild – dawn and dusk are the best times to see them!
For the animal lovers among us, head to Cape Hillsborough to watch the sunrise with the wallabies.
45 minutes from Mackay City, Cape Hillsborough National Park is a truly spectacular place. Head to the beach at dawn to get up close and personal with friendly and curious kangaroos and wallabies. Keep your eyes peeled for turkeys, echidnas, possums and turtles that also call this region home.
For a stunning change of scenery, head west of the kiosk to discover the vine strewn rainforest of Hidden Valley. Andrews Point hike and lookout will dazzle visitors with the breathtaking ocean, island and coastal views over Casuarina Bay’s untamed, rocky coastline. The diversity boardwalks are also great for learning about the unique and interesting wildlife that call Cape Hillsborough home.
Soak up country hospitality in the Isaac region.
For a step back in time, visit Nebo, an hour west of Mackay. The Isaac region features the Shire Museum where visitors can admire old relics and read stories of the pioneers. Enjoy a drink at the heritage listed pub or experience what was once a bustling gold mine at Mt. Britton. If you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at gold fossicking in Clermont.
For spotting dugongs in the ocean at Clairview and meandering through idyllic coastal communities, don’t forget to check out Serenity Coast through to St Lawrence.
Visit the Mackay Information Centre for further details on where to go and what to see to make your Mackay trip unforgettable.
For further information regarding the region, please head on to mackayisaac.com.
Book your accommodation at the Ibis Hotel here.
Images courtesy of mackayregion.com