Mackay Things to Do Tips by lou31 Top 5 Page for this destination

Cape Hillsborough

This lovely beach is about a 3/4 hour drive from Mackay and is well worth the drive.

Along the expanse of open beach there is a variety of caves, rock pools and geological structures to explore.

Another intriguing aspect of this area is the local kangaroo population that regularly sunbakes on the beach. They are quite tame and can be patted though it is advised that they are wild creatures with varying personalities so it is best to be careful when around them. Yes, kangaroos do bite!

Bush walking is another popular activity. An award winning Environmental Walk takes you from the beach and meanders up the hillside to various lookouts.

At the Cape Hillsborough Resort there is a variety of accommodation to choose from. Cabins, a variety of beach huts and villas plus camping and caravanning. Amenities include a camp kitchen, laundry, BBQs, pool, a shop and lots more.

Address: 47 Kilometres north of Mackay

Directions: Head north along the Bruce highway. Turn right just after the Leap Hotel and follow the signs.

Phone: 49590152

Website: http://capehillsboroughresort.com.au

Seaforth Beach

Seaforth lies about 40 kilometres north of Mackay and has been one of the more popular beaches and day trip destinations for years. Facilities at this quaint beach community include a swimming enclosure, bowls club, nice park like surroundings and a large and well maintained caravan park right on the beach. There are also public toilets and showers.
There is the convenience of a shop where you can buy anything from an icecreams, take away food, souvenirs, bait and tackle etc.
Don't forget the usual long sandy beach, palm trees and exotic bird life.
Sunday morning markets offer local craft and produce from 8.30 to 11.30.
Nearby Victor creek and it’s boat ramp are also very popular with the local fishermen.

Address: 40 kilometres north of Mackay

Directions: Head north along the highway and turn off to the right at the Leap.

Sunday Markets

Each Sunday morning the City Heart comes alive with colourful stalls, rides, music and entertainment.
You can find all sorts of merchandise for sale. Local fruit and vegetables, jewellery, handicrafts, flowers, cakes, pot plants, art and cosmetics etc.
The Mackay Pipe Band usually put on a performance and there is always some form of entertainment playing in rotunda.

Address: Victoria Street

Botanical Gardens

The Mackay Botanical Gardens are a relatively new addition to the town. Built only about 2 years ago they still have alot of 'growing' to do. It's a nice place to take a stroll and there is a coffee shop with a balcony over looking the 'lagoons' waterway.

If you head south you can explore the meandering paths that take you through a small forest complete with a flowing stream. Further down is the large grass Islander Hut.

Address: Lagoon Street...off Nebo Road

Directions: West Mackay

The Mackay Marina

Once upon a time this was simply called 'The Harbour' and it was a pretty enough place in it's own way. Now it is called the Marina and it is gorgeous! A whole new harbour was built. A long wall that you can drive along protects the many boats and yachts from the elements. The coast line now boasts condos which have sprouted up in no time. Along the shore front there is a nice landscaped walkway with numerous eateries and pubs. It truly is a nice place to enjoy a meal or a drink.
Try Sachmo's, The Light House or The Deck to name a few.

Address: Mackay Marina

Pioner Valley

More to see around the Pioneer Valley... Walkerston would be the largest township in the Mackay region. About 2.5 thousand inhabitants and with a nice country 'feel'. Only about 10 kilometers from town [ Mackay ] it has a variety of shops and businesses.

Our new Woolworths supermarket has been a huge bonus to the locals. Walkerston is a fast growing area due to the new coal mines opening up out west.

Address: Peak Downs Highway

Greenmount Homestead

Just outside Walkerston is Greenmount Homestead. Originally owned by the Cook family and now a museum. The house was built in 1915 by Albert Cook who settled in the area and bred the first Aberdeen Angus cattle in Queensland.
Captain John Mackay [ Founder of the town of Mackay ] named the property when he camped on the sight in 1862.
Inside, household paraphenalia from 3 generations of the Cook family are on show.
Furniture, carpets, crockery, even dresses worn in that period are displayed throughout the house.
The homestead was left to the Mackay Historical Society by Tom and Dorothy Cook.

Address: Greenmount Road...off the Peak Downs Highway

Directions: Just past Walkerston. First turn on the right.

Lamberts Beach

Residents of the suburb of Slade Point have this lovely beach at their disposal.

Only about a ten minute drive from the city heart it has lovely views out onto the islands and is popular with families and walkers.

Directions: Slade Point, Mackay

Slade Point Lookout

From the top of the lookout you will get some fantastic views of the ocean and shoreline.
Some have even spotted whales and dolphins on a clear day.

Shoal Point

This is another popular destination. Picnic / barbeque area, playground and lots of beach to walk along.
This photo was taken from the lookout but the main beach is down and around to the left.