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Mackay, Queensland Top 10 Things to Do - Sugar, Sea Breezes and Tropical Adventures
- Oct 2, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 30
Mackay, Queensland Top 10 Things to Do - Sugar, Sea Breezes and Tropical Adventures
Set along Queensland’s stunning central coastline, Mackay is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located 954 kilometres north of Brisbane. Known proudly as the Sugar Capital of Australia, the region produces more than one-third of the nation’s sugar — a legacy that still shapes its culture today.
Beyond the cane fields, Mackay surprises visitors with palm-lined beaches, a world-class marina, lush rainforests, freshwater swimming holes and one of the finest collections of Art Deco architecture in Queensland. It’s a destination where tropical relaxation meets outdoor adventure.
Wander along the Mackay Marina
The Mackay Marina is a beautiful place to slow down and soak up the tropical atmosphere. Palm trees line the waterfront walking track, luxury yachts bob gently in the harbour and the views stretch across the water to the nearby islands.
A highlight here is the historic Pine Islet Lighthouse, built in 1885 and used until 1985. Remarkably, it was the last operating kerosene lighthouse in Australia and remains a fascinating reminder of Mackay’s maritime history.
Enjoy the Views from Lamberts Lookout
Perched above the coastline, Lamberts Lookout offers sweeping views over Lamberts Beach, Slade Point and the Cumberland Islands. During whale migration season, it’s one of the best vantage points in the region for spotting humpback whales as they pass by offshore.
Interpretive signs at the lookout share information about the local landscape, wildlife and history, making it a worthwhile stop any time of year.
One of Mackay’s most memorable experiences lies inland at Eungella National Park, around 85 kilometres west of the city. The Broken River is one of the most reliable places in Australia to spot a platypus in the wild.
We arrived early in the morning and were rewarded with the sight of a platypus swimming near the main viewing platform at around 8:00 a.m. The park also features scenic walking tracks, picnic areas and a café — perfect for a relaxed day in nature.
You can also take a Platypus Spotting Tour to Eungella National Park from Mackay.
Cool Off at the Bluewater Lagoon
Located in the heart of Mackay overlooking the Pioneer River, Bluewater Lagoon is a fantastic free attraction for all ages. This family-friendly complex features three tiered lagoon-style swimming pools, a waterslide, splash play area, shaded seating and picnic facilities. It’s a popular spot to escape the tropical heat and a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Discover the Fifth Lane Murals
Mackay’s creative side shines in Fifth Lane, an ever-evolving outdoor art gallery tucked away in the city centre. The laneway is filled with colourful street art, murals and community artworks that celebrate local stories and creativity. A wander through Fifth Lane is a fun and unexpected way to experience Mackay’s vibrant arts scene.
Enjoy Bucasia Beach
Located in Mackay’s Northern Beaches area, Bucasia Beach is one of the region’s most popular coastal spots. Stretching for four kilometres, it’s ideal for long walks, swimming and fishing. The beach is also pet-friendly, with a designated off-leash area between Williams Avenue and Symons Avenue, making it a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Around 70 kilometres west of Mackay, Finch Hatton Gorge is a rainforest paradise tucked within Eungella National Park. The area is home to two stunning waterfalls — Araluen Cascades and the Wheel of Fire — both set amongst lush sub-tropical forest.
The return walk to both waterfalls is approximately five kilometres and rewards hikers with crystal-clear swimming holes, perfect for a refreshing dip after the walk.
Wander around the Mackay Botanic Gardens
Opened in 2003, Mackay’s Botanic Gardens are among the youngest in Australia and offer a peaceful escape close to the city centre. The gardens feature a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, a wetland lagoon, and more than three kilometres of walking and cycling paths. There’s also a café overlooking the lagoon and a gift shop, making it a lovely spot to relax and recharge.
A visit to Mackay wouldn’t be complete without learning more about its sugar heritage. Located 38 kilometres south of the city, the Sarina Sugar Shed offers guided tours through a miniature replica sugar mill.
Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the experience walks you through the entire sugar-making process — from cane growing to refining — and finishes with tastings, a café and a well-stocked retail store.
Follow the Mackay Heritage Walk
Mackay’s city centre showcases a fascinating collection of historic buildings, many of which were rebuilt after the devastating 1918 cyclone that destroyed around 80% of the city.
The Mackay Heritage Walk highlights landmarks such as the Town Hall, built in 1912, and showcases the city’s impressive Art Deco architecture. Today, Mackay boasts the finest collection of Art Deco buildings in Queensland.
Add Mackay to Your Queensland Itinerary
From platypus spotting in ancient rainforests to relaxing on palm-fringed beaches, exploring historic architecture and learning about Australia’s sugar industry, Mackay offers an impressive variety of experiences in one destination.
Whether you’re passing through on a Queensland road trip or staying longer to explore the surrounding national parks and islands, Mackay delivers a perfect blend of tropical adventure, culture and laid-back coastal living — a place that truly captures the heart of Central Queensland.
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