Mackay Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland
Mackay
Mackay
Mackay
Mackay

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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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
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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
Mackay featuring a bay or harbour, general coastal views and landscape views

City Centre

While visiting City Centre, you might make a stop by sights like Bluewater Lagoon and Caneland Central.

City Centre
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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
Coral Cay Resort

Coral Cay Resort

4.5 out of 5
14-18 Nebo Rd, West Mackay, QLD
The price is AU$141 per night from 26 Oct to 27 Oct
AU$141
per night
26 Oct - 27 Oct
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! (926 reviews)
"Clean room"

Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Coral Cay Resort
ibis Mackay

ibis Mackay

4 out of 5
Christensen Crescent, Mackay Airport, South Mackay, QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$143 per night from 14 Nov to 15 Nov
AU$143
per night
14 Nov - 15 Nov
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Mackay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (542 reviews)
"Only 1 staff member on check-in. Waiting for over 1/2 hour to check in."

Reviewed on 12 Oct 2025

ibis Mackay
White Lace Motor Inn

White Lace Motor Inn

4 out of 5
73 Nebo Rd, West Mackay, QLD
The price is AU$122 per night from 24 Oct to 25 Oct
AU$122
per night
24 Oct - 25 Oct
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly motel in Mackay. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (919 reviews)
"I would highly recommend this place easy check in Staff excellent Room was big and comfortable"

Reviewed on 8 Oct 2025

White Lace Motor Inn
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.
Pacific Sands Apartments

Pacific Sands Apartments

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! (438 reviews)
"good"

Reviewed on 28 Sept 2025

Pacific Sands Apartments
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! (442 reviews)
"Clean room, but had Clean the room sign out for three days. ( Not done) ended up asking cleaner for clean towels. A little disappointing"

Reviewed on 7 Oct 2025

Riviera Mackay
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! (445 reviews)
"Excellent."

Reviewed on 7 Oct 2025

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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