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Port Douglas, Queensland to Mackay, Queensland from $70: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Port Douglas, Australia
to
Mackay, Australia

How to Get from Port Douglas to Mackay: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$70 - Bus, TrainBest price
653 kmDistance
4h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Port Douglas to Mackay with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$210-510
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
13h  10m
Estimated price
$70-1
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 653 km
Duration: 4h 6m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  11m
Estimated price
$80-114
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  40m
Estimated price
$100-214
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  30m
Estimated price
$100-150
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$265-643
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Traveling From Port Douglas to Mackay

The journey from Port Douglas, with its serene beaches and vibrant coral reefs, to Mackay, a bustling hub surrounded by lush rainforests and rich agricultural landscapes, offers travelers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mackay

Mackay offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

City Centre
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene.
• Hosts local events and festivals.
Emu Park
• Nestled near stunning coastal views.
• Ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation.
North Mackay
• Close to the Pioneer River.
• Family-friendly parks and recreational areas.

Best Times To Visit Mackay's Attractions

Timing your visit to Mackay's attractions can elevate your experience dramatically.

Bluewater Lagoon
Early mornings and weekdays offer a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Visit in the early hours for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Eungella National Park
Midweek trips allow for serene hikes and stunning wildlife sightings.

Mackay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackay enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season from December to March, making the dry months from May to September the ideal times for outdoor activities. Understanding the weather patterns can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether you prefer sun-soaked days at the beach or exploring lush rainforests in cooler conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Mackay

For a distinctive culinary experience in Mackay, try the local specialty of slow-cooked beef with native ingredients at The Grazing Goat, where the focus on fresh, regional produce sets it apart from the seafood-centric offerings in Port Douglas. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with bold flavors that highlight the area’s agricultural heritage, provides a refreshing contrast to the laid-back dining scene in Port Douglas.

Port Douglas - Mackay operators

Explore transport companies operating between Port Douglas and Mackay, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+61 7 3036 2070
Website
https://www.transnorthbus.com.au/

Bus from Port Douglas to Cairns

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
AU$14-21
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Mackay

Average Duration
12h 5m
Estimated price
AU$55-80
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Mackay

Average Duration
12h 25m
Estimated price
AU$75-180
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Cairns Central Station to Mackay

Average Duration
11h 21m
Estimated price
AU$45-120
Plane
Website
https://www.virginaustralia.com/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Mackay Airport

Average Duration
5h 27m
Estimated price
AU$180-650
Website
https://www.qantas.com/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Mackay Airport

Average Duration
5h 36m
Estimated price
AU$220-500
Website
https://www.skytrans.com.au/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Proserpine

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
AU$150-370
Website
https://www.flexflight.dk/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Proserpine

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
AU$150-370

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Port Douglas to Mackay.

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The distance between Port Douglas and Mackay is 653 km by air and 805 km by road. If you prefer a quicker option, you can take a taxi to the airport and then fly to Mackay, which takes approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes. However, if you prefer a more leisurely travel experience and wish to drive, it takes around 10 hours and 30 minutes to reach Port Douglas from Mackay by car. Alternatively, if you prefer taking a bus, it takes approximately 14 hours and 40 minutes to travel from Port Douglas to Mackay.
The most cost-effective option to travel from Port Douglas to Mackay is by bus, with prices ranging from $75-$120. The journey takes approximately 14h 41m. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, the quickest way is to take a taxi and then fly to Mackay, followed by a drive, which takes around 4h 1m but can cost between $260-$650.
The prices for a bus ticket between Mackay and Port Douglas can vary depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. On average, prices range from $98 to $271.
To travel from Port Douglas to Mackay without using public transportation, the most convenient option would be to rent a car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 805 km, and it takes around 10 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Port Douglas to Mackay. Rental car prices for this journey typically range from $100 to $150, depending on the company and type of vehicle.
The best way to travel from Port Douglas to Mackay without a car is by taking a bus and train combination. This option takes approximately 13 hours and 10 minutes, and the cost is typically between $70 and $140. The journey includes a bus ride from Port Douglas to Cairns, followed by a train from Cairns to Mackay.
The flight duration from Cairns Airport to Mackay Airport with one stopover typically takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Mackay. With over 72 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay. Prices for hotels in Mackay start at $65, making it possible to find a budget-friendly option.

Trips from Port Douglas