Travel Packages to Mackay, Australia

Discover Mackay's Wonders

Mackay is a coastal city located in Queensland, Australia, known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant arts scene. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Current Weather

57.49 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 57.49 °F / 57.49 °FFeels: 56.75 °F Humidity: 81%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Mackay is an exceptionally scenic city with a relaxed tropical ambience. The picturesque sparkling blue Pioneer River winds its way through the city providing an ever-changing landscape as the tides come and go. Palm trees lining the streets present not only a wonderful vista, but are also a retreat for thousands of the city’s colourful lorikeets as they settle in the city centre at dusk each evening. While Mackay boasts a stress-free country charm in character, it has become an effervescent hub for visitors who enjoy all that is trendy. Dining in Mackay is a gastronomical delight — especially for seafood lovers. Fishermen return daily with fresh catches of the ocean’s finest and the Mackay Fish Market is renowned for quality seafood straight from the trawler. On either side of the city are some of Australia’s most precious natural treasures: 31 long white sandy beaches line the coastline, the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, and Australia’s largest rainforest national park. This is a city with an enchanting appeal — many find hard to leave — and one where there is much more than meets the eye.

Useful information

Population:

138,918 (2024)

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $ 1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Emergency situations, police, ambulance, fire brigade: 000

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Caneland’s and Greenfield’s Shopping Centres and Sydney Street Markets trade stay open until 9pm on Thursdays. Stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays, except for annual sales events.

Do & See

Beautiful Beaches

Stretching along Mackay’s coastline there are more than 31 glorious beaches all fringed by the turquoise tropical waters of the Coral Sea and The Great Barrier Reef.

Bluewater Lagoon

Bluewater Lagoon is a must-visit entertainment spot for both adults and young ones. It's a fun water park that is completely free for visitors. Pools, water slides, sunbeds and a great time for the whole family guaranteed.

Cape Hillsborough National Park

In this beautiful park, 50 km north of Mackay, the rainforest literally meets the ocean. A terrific park featuring long white sandy beaches and 25 species of tropical butterflies. The unique self-guiding Jupiera Aboriginal trail highlights native plants and inquisitive wallabies that visit the palm fringed beach at sunrise and sunset.

Eungella National Park

Set in the mist-shrouded mountains 80 km west of Mackay, Eungella is Australia’s longest continual stretch of sub-tropical rainforest. It is home to 860 known plant species plus numerous types of wildlife. Do not miss the brilliant Ulysses butterfly and platypus. 25 km of walking trails, from a 10-minute stroll to overnight hikes that lead to breathtaking scenery.

Finch Hatton Gorge

Set in the foothills of the picturesque Eungella Range, walking tracks lead to deep natural swimming holes amid tropical rainforest. See the Araluen and Wheel of Fire waterfalls and for a truly unique experience go forest flying through the treetops of the rainforest. Just make sure you book your spot to go forest flying in advance.

Heritage Walk

Collect a free self-walk brochure from the Visitor Information Centre and discover magnificently restored buildings built by the first settlers, and the best collection of Art Deco architecture in Queensland. Many buildings are recognised for their national importance and listed with the National Trust. The walk begins in River Street opposite Carlyle Street, and takes approximately 90 minutes.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

These beautiful scenic gardens highlighting flora of the Central Queensland Coast bioregion. They also feature over 3 km of walking and cycling trails, wildlife filled lagoons, themed gardens, a café and gallery, making this an enjoyable free recreational experience for all ages.

Marina Village

Marina Village is a palm-lined waterfront esplanade where luxury yachts are moored. Dine al fresco in one of the fine restaurants with views to the southern Whitsunday Islands or enjoy water-based activities such as snorkelling, fishing, jet skiing and parasailing. Next door is Harbour Beach and the Pine Islet Lighthouse — the only working kerosene-lit lighthouse in the world.

Dining

Breakwater Bar and Restaurant

With blackboard daily specials, Breakwater Bar and Restaurant offers value for your money. The menu offers a great variation of seafood, salads, steak and other treats.

Eimeo Pacific Hotel

Set on a cliff overlooking the beach and the Coral Sea, this hotel not only rewards you with amazing views, but also with some tasty pub food, including burgers and fish and chips. Check the hotel's Facebook page for upcoming live music events.

Fusion128

Fusion128 offers a sophisticated ambiance with warm decor, perfectly complemented by its exceptional food and service. Their dishes primarily feature Australian cuisine with touches of Asian and French influences, all crafted using fresh local ingredients. For lunch or dinner in an atmosphere enhanced by a great music selection, this is the place to visit.

Galleons Restaurant

Located in Ocean International Hotel, Galleons offers a dining experience in a setting like no other. You'll be sitting in a warmly lit dining hall overlooking a tropical-looking naturalistic pool with a small waterfall. Some of the best seafood dishes in town are served here.

Latitude 21 Restaurant & Bar

Lattitude 21 is a sophisticated and stylish restaurant located at Mantra Mackay Marina. Here you will find nice Australian cuisine with a great selection of wine.

Let's Do Greek

Located a few blocks from the Pioneer River, Let's Do Greek offers authentic Greek cuisine, house-made desserts and Greek wines. This restaurant is a must-visit, if you're looking for fresh, genuine Greek food. Don't leave without trying their steak with fig sauce.

Lighthouse Seafood Mackay

Lighthouse Seafood Restaurant serves lovely seafood dishes. As the restaurant's name suggests, it is located at Mackay Harbour, right beside its white beacon. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cafés

Botanical Gardens Cafe

Dine in the tropical gardens and sample superb culinary delights such as native bush foods. All guests remark on the relaxing atmosphere and serene views of the nature from the shady al fresco deck.

Cool Mango Salad Bar

Cool Mango Salad Bar is a popular lunch spot offering a variety of healthy, fresh food, including gluten and dairy-free options. Their baked goods are delicious and home-made, the sandwiches are made to order with fresh ingredients and the service is friendly. Cool Mango is popular with local workers on their lunch break — a true mark of excellence.

Jamaica Blue Caneland Central

Jamaica Blue is known for offering quality coffee beans with a worldwide reputation for excellence. Located inside the Caneland Central shopping centre, next to the Mackay Junior Motocross sports complex, this café is a must-visit. Whether you're looking for a cup of coffee, something to eat or sweet desserts, Jamaica Blue is the go-to spot in Mackay.

The Grazing Goat Cafe

The Grazing Goat is located just a couple of blocks from Bluewater Quay Park. It's famous in Mackay for its delicious food and generous portions. Must-try dishes include the lamb burger and the eggs benedict with bacon. The latte here is also considered one of the best in town. This establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

Woodman's Axe Espresso

This hip cafe is a locals' favourite, hence it can get a bit crowded at lunchtime. This little cafe, with an outdoor dining area, serves amazing coffee and has tasty food options, including vegan. Try their delicious Lemon Tart with a hot chocolate.

Bars & Nightlife

Cartel Nightclub

Cartel Nightclub is a vibrant and popular nightspot known for its lively atmosphere and young clientele. Their extensive menu offers everything from cocktails to beer and spirits. The nightclub frequently hosts live music events, as well as local and iternational DJs. Despite being a relatively small establishment, Cartel Nightclub features VIP booths, multiple bars, and a dance floor.

Haunt Mackay

Haunt is Mackay's only permanent dinner theatre. Enjoy a fun, humorous, at times frightening and titillating show every Friday and Saturday night. The ever changing buffet menu will keep you satisfied as well.

Langfords Hotel

Since 1908, Langfords Hotel has been the place for great food, great company and refreshing cold beer. Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday with no cover charge. This genuinely welcoming pub and hotel is always full of dedicated friendly locals. Come in for a chat or a game of pool and see why it's so popular.

Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)

Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) is an outstanding venue hosting high profile Australian and international entertainers. Check the schedule to see what's on while you're in town.

The Dispensary

The Dispensary is a cafe, restaurant, and bar all in one. It features the city's largest wine and whisky collection, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. With several charming and modern ambiances to choose from and a menu that goes from breakfast to dinner, you surely don't want to miss out on this place.

The Gallery Lounge & Bar

The Gallery Lounge and Bar offers a great atmosphere for a casual experience up town. The centrepiece of the venue is the fully stocked bar with backlit bottles, staffed by the most tender and attentive bartenders. Make sure to check their Facebook page for special offers and events.

The Rabbit Hole

The Rabbit Hole stands out for their variety of beers, cocktails and music. It's an excellent spot to play pool and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Since it's only open on weekends, it can get very crowded.

Shopping

A Deja Vu Experience

This charming European inspired store is located in the heart of Mackay. It's home to elegant giftware, homeware, handbags, French Provincial furniture and much more. Inside, there is also a tea room offering Devonshire tea, lunch and High Tea.

Angus & Coote

Located in Caneland Central, Angus & Coote is one of Australia's leader in jewellery, watches and giftware. You will find amazing diamonds, coloured gems and high-quality gold and silver.

Best & Less

Best & Less not only provides fashion and footwear for women, men, kids and babies, it also offers homeware at affordable prices. You will find this shop inside Caneland Central in Mackay.

Caneland Central

Caneland Central, at walking distance from the Mackay Central Business District, is the largest shopping centre in the region with over 120 stores and services in one convenient location. You will find brands like Footlocker, Dotti, Crossroads, EB Games, Ed Harry, Ice Design, Mays, Millers and Pandora here.

Kitten Vintage

Kitten Vintage is a unique vintage shop and cat cafe combo. Browse their ever changing range of antique items, quirky and amusing upcycled vintage furniture and collectables, retro style clothing and accessories. Every room is themed and you can step back in time to sit in an old Genoa lounge or a 1960-dining room table with friends enjoying some organic tea. The cats are usually happy to interact with guests.

Let the Children Play Toyshop

This treasure shop is a paradise for kids, offering a unique and creative range of imported and Australian toys, puzzles, games, models and children’s books. Here you will find eco-friendly and educational toys that encourage fun.

M’Lady’s Shoes

For over 30 years, M’Lady’s Shoes has been providing quality women's shoes for all needs. Brand names such as Tilly Rose, Brazilio, Django and Juliette, Gamins, Piazza Grande, Mia Bellissima, Luciana Barraccini can be found here.

Mount Pleasant Centre

Located away from the busy city centre streets, this mall is much more compact than Canelands, but it feels much less crowded while still providing a large variety of shopping options.

Tourist Information

Mackay Airport (MKY)

Mackay Airport is only a 10-minute drive away from the city centre. It can be easily reached by taxi or Greyhound coaches. Coaches offer regular services to and from Mackay, and are located at the northern end of the terminal where the baggage carousels are. Alternatively, rideshare operators like Uber, Ola Cabs and Shebah provide transport to and from the airport. When it comes to the airport's facilities, Mackay Airport houses shops, restaurants, a lounge and an Ibis hotel beside the airport. It also provides services and accessibility for the disabled.

Public Transport

Mackay Transit Coaches operate urban bus services within Mackay city. Buses run Monday to Saturday. Tickets can be purchased on board using cash.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available with taxi ranks situated at the airport and in the town centre. Rideshare operators such as Ola, Shebah, Uber and Didi operate in the Mackay area as well, so make sure you download the app.

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

There is no 24-hour pharmacy in Mackay; however, you can find many of them scattered throughout the city. TerryWhite Chemmart is a reputable pharmacy in the city.

Post

The Australia Post is a semi privatised service known for being efficient. There are a few post offices in Mackay, most of them centrally located.

Telephone

Country code: +61 Area code: 07

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top things to do in Mackay?

Mackay offers a rich mix of sightseeing, guided tours, and local activities. On Keytours you can browse the most popular tours and experiences in Mackay and book them instantly.

What is the best time to visit Mackay?

The ideal time to visit Mackay depends on the experience you're after. Check the current weather and seasonal information on this page to plan your trip around the best conditions.

How do I get around Mackay?

You can arrange private airport transfers and local transport for Mackay directly through Keytours, ensuring a comfortable arrival and easy travel throughout your stay.

Where should I stay in Mackay?

Mackay has accommodation for every style, from boutique city stays to seaside resorts. Explore our handpicked hotels in Mackay to find the right base for your trip.

Can I book tours, hotels, and transfers together for Mackay?

Yes. With Keytours you can combine tours, activities, hotels, and transfers for Mackay in a single booking, making it easy to plan your entire trip in one place.

How do I book a trip to Mackay with Keytours?

Simply choose your preferred tours, hotels, or activities in Mackay on this page, select your dates, and complete your secure booking online. Our team is available to help at any step.

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