Mackay

Travel Guide
Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland
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

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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
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Dolphin Heads

The restaurants and gardens are a few reasons travellers visit Dolphin Heads. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Eimeo Beach and Bucasia Beach are a few top sights nearby.

Dolphin Heads
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South Mackay

South Mackay is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Harrup Park and BB Print Stadium.

South Mackay
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West Mackay

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

West Mackay
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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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North Mackay

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

North Mackay
Coral Cay Resort
Coral Cay Resort
4.5 out of 5
14-18 Nebo Rd, West Mackay, QLD
The price is RM393 per night from 3 Nov to 4 Nov
RM393
RM433 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Stay at this 4.5-star business-friendly motel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (876 reviews)
"Happy with my stay for the price. Convenient to town/lagoon etc."

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2024

Coral Cay Resort
The Marco Polo
The Marco Polo
4 out of 5
46 Nebo Road, West Mackay, QLD
The price is RM339 per night from 10 Nov to 11 Nov
RM339
RM372 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (565 reviews)
"Although on main Road and under the flight path it was quiet at night. Food at restaurant was unique and provided take away to room. Well maintained for 'older motel'. plenty of power points, comfortable bed."

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2024

The Marco Polo
Mackay Oceanside Central Hotel
Mackay Oceanside Central Hotel
4 out of 5
2C East Gordon Street, East Mackay, QLD
The price is RM353 per night from 30 Nov to 1 Dec
RM353
RM353 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Stay at this 4-star motel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (598 reviews)
"This is an excellent Hotel. At the moment there are renovations and updates being done. It is still quiet and this process is not interfering with clients."

Reviewed on 27 Oct 2024

Mackay Oceanside Central Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Riviera Mackay
Riviera Mackay
4 out of 5
5 - 7 Nelson St, Mackay, QLD
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the property condition ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (419 reviews)
"It's in a great location and so easy to walk to the shops and restaurants. The property was nice and clean."

Reviewed on 1 Oct 2024

Riviera Mackay
Property Vine - Pacific Sands
Property Vine - Pacific Sands
4.5 out of 5
3 Kirribilli Avenue, East Mackay, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (419 reviews)
"Everything was fine"

Reviewed on 25 Oct 2024

Property Vine - Pacific Sands
Lanai Riverside Apartments
Lanai Riverside Apartments
4.5 out of 5
20 River Street, Mackay, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (415 reviews)
"We’ve stayed at this property before. Again didn’t disappoint. Close to Caneland and the blue lagoon. Underground parking. The rooms are always clean neat and tidy."

Reviewed on 21 Oct 2024

Lanai Riverside Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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