Things to do in Mackay

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Mackay

Types of activities

Where to stay

Mackay Travel Guide

Mackay showing general coastal views, landscape views and a bay or harbor

Cape Hillsborough National Park showing cuddly or friendly animals and a sunset

Cape Hillsborough National Park featuring a sunset and general coastal views as well as a couple

Cape Hillsborough National Park showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and landscape views

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What to do in Mackay

Popular places to visit

Melaleuca forest with beautiful scenery especially after some rain. There’s two timber bird hides along the track, mozzie repellent is a must if going in early morning or late afternoon.

Water Bird Habitat Conservation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Water Bird Habitat Conservation Area, a lovely green space in Mackay. Stroll along the area's marina or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Mackay Base Hospital

Though Mackay Base Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Mackay while you are here.

Harrup Park

Harrup Park is just one of the places to see in Mackay, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along this relaxing area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard

Explore the waterfront in Mackay with a trip to Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard. While in this relaxing area, you can enjoy the cafes.

Bluewater Lagoon

Bring your family to Bluewater Lagoon and have a fun-filled day at this amusement park in Mackay. Wander around the gardens in this relaxing area, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Caneland Central

During your trip to Mackay, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Caneland Central. Stroll along this family-friendly area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

You can enjoy retail therapy at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre during your visit to Mackay. Stroll along this relaxing area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Northern Beaches Bowls Club

You can take time to visit Northern Beaches Bowls Club during your travels to Mackay. Stroll along this relaxing area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Bucasia Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Bucasia Beach during your travels in Shoal Point?

Areas of Mackay

Mackay Harbour

Mackay Harbour is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard and Water Bird Habitat Conservation Area.

Panoramic view of Cape Hillsborough with Wedge Island and reef in Cape Hillsborough National Park in Australia.

Dolphin Heads

Dolphin Heads is well-liked for its restaurants and gardens. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Eimeo Beach and Bucasia Beach are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Shoal Point Beach north of Mackay, Australia.

North Mackay

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

Lambert Beach Lookout at Slade Point Mackay QLD Australia on Saturday 6 June 2020

South Mackay

South Mackay is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like BB Print Stadium and Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Mackay you've been amazing as always! Back to Gladstone now for a few days of work and packing, gotta love packing! 🌅✌️🐟🌴😂
#meetmackayregion #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #Blue

City Centre

If you're spending some time in City Centre, Bluewater Lagoon and Caneland Central are top sights worth seeing.

Beautiful Pioneer River at Marian looking East.

East Mackay

Unique features of East Mackay include the restaurants and beaches. Make a stop by Ken Burgess Orchid House or Town Beach while you're exploring the area.

Frequently asked questions

Is Mackay worth visiting?

From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are many interesting things to do in Mackay. Be sure to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, culture and local charm.

How do I spend a day in Mackay?

After you've checked off top attractions like Eimeo Beach and Bucasia Beach, spend the rest of your day discovering Mackay's shopping and dining scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Mackay?

The top tourist attraction in Mackay is Eimeo Beach, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.

Is three days enough to stay in Mackay?

Three days in Mackay is enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travelers stay for two days on average. Mackay Leisure Centre, Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard and Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens are among the most popular sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Mackay Region.

Is Mackay a walkable city?

With exciting neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, Mackay is a great destination to tour on foot. Have fun wandering between Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens and Jubilee Park. Then take a stroll through West Mackay, located 3 kilometers from the center, and East Mackay, which is roughly 2 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Mackay with kids?

Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Mackay with kids.

What to do in Mackay for adults?

Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of things to do in Mackay for adults.

Are there free things to do in Mackay?

One of the best ways to find free things to do in Mackay is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Mackay Leisure Centre is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.