Map of Mackay, Australia

🏞️ What to Do in Mackay

Explore the diverse range of activities Mackay has to offer, from nature adventures to cultural experiences. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the region and create unforgettable memories.

• Best Budget Activity in Mackay:

  Bluewater Lagoon: Cool off and enjoy a day of fun at this free water park with swimming lagoons and water slides.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Mackay:

  Pioneer Valley: Discover the stunning rainforest scenery of the Pioneer Valley through scenic drives and hikes, with opportunities for swimming and picnicking.

• Best Luxury Activity in Mackay:

  Great Barrier Reef Tours: Embark on a luxury tour to the Great Barrier Reef from Mackay, where you can snorkel, dive, and witness the wonders of this World Heritage site.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Mackay

Indulge in Mackay's culinary delights, from fresh seafood to tropical fruits. Don't miss out on trying the iconic locally sourced dishes that capture the essence of this vibrant city.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Mackay:

  The Eimeo Pacific Hotel•$:

  Classic pub meals with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Mackay:

  Church on Palmer•$$:

  Modern Australian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Mackay:

  Ribs & Rumps•$$$:

  Succulent ribs and premium steaks

• Best Budget Bar in Mackay:

  The Austral Bar•$:

  Cold beers and tasty bar snacks

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Mackay:

  Moss on Wood•$$:

  Craft cocktails and gourmet pizzas

• Best Luxury Bar in Mackay:

  Latitude 21•$$$:

  Fine wines and premium spirits

🏰 What to See in Mackay

Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Mackay through its iconic landmarks that mesmerize visitors with their charm and significance.

• Bluewater Trail:

  A picturesque walking and cycling trail that winds through parks, wetlands, and the Mackay Botanic Gardens, offering stunning views of the city and river.

• Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard:

  A hub of activity with waterfront dining, shopping, and a marina offering boat tours and charters, providing a glimpse into Mackay's maritime culture.

• Cape Hillsborough National Park:

  Home to secluded beaches, hiking trails, and stunning sunrise views over the ocean, where you can witness kangaroos and wallabies on the beach at dawn.

• Artspace Mackay:

  A vibrant cultural precinct showcasing contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and events, housed in a modern architectural gem in the heart of the city.

• Sarina Sugar Shed:

  Step into the world of sugarcane farming and processing at this interactive attraction, where you can taste freshly made sugar products and learn about Mackay's sugar industry heritage.

🛍️ Where to Go Shopping in Mackay

Explore the diverse shopping scene in Mackay, offering everything from local markets to boutique stores and shopping centers, catering to all tastes and budgets.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Mackay:

  Caneland Central: One of Mackay's largest shopping malls with a variety of stores ranging from affordable fashion to homeware and electronics.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Mackay:

  Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre: A popular shopping destination with a mix of national chains and specialty stores, perfect for mid-range shopping needs.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Mackay:

  Sydney Street Markets: A boutique shopping precinct offering high-end fashion, jewelry, and designer homewares, providing a luxurious shopping experience.

🚌 Getting Around Mackay

• Public Transport

  In Mackay, the primary mode of public transportation is the local bus system operated by Mackay Transit Coaches. Buses run throughout the city and connect various neighborhoods, shopping centers, and attractions. The fare for a single trip is around $3.50, with discounted rates for seniors and students. The buses generally operate from early morning until late evening, with a reduced schedule on weekends and holidays.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Mackay does not have a train or metro system, but the main transportation hub in the city is the Mackay Transit Centre. This is where most bus routes converge, making it a convenient spot for transferring between different lines. For those traveling further afield, the closest major airport is the Mackay Airport, located approximately 4 miles south of the city center.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Visitors to Mackay have several options for car rentals, including popular providers like Hertz, Budget, and Avis. Rental prices typically start around $50 per day, with discounts available for longer bookings. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For those looking to explore Mackay on two wheels, rental services like Cycle Zone and Mackay Cycles offer a range of bicycles for hire. Prices for bicycle rentals start at around $15 per day, with discounts for weekly rentals.