Nestled on the banks of one of Australia’s rare blue water rivers, Mackay can be as exciting, or as peaceful, as you desire.

Begin exploring the city at Bluewater Quay and marvel at public art which embraces the heritage and industry sectors of Mackay, as well as the heritage-listed Leichhardt Tree.

DID YOU KNOW? You’ll find architecturally impressive buildings throughout the CBD, many from the 1920’s and 30’s Art Deco era, after much of the town was re-built following the Great Cyclone of 1918. You can learn more about these buildings on the self-guided Heritage Walk trail. 

Follow the banks of the Pioneer River and revive at one of the river-side cafes, before taking a refreshing swim at Bluewater Lagoon. The Bluewater Trail continues through natural river wetlands along a raised boardwalk before arriving at Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Near the CBD, make the trip to Queens Park, home to a large collection of beautiful orchids at the Ken Burgess Orchid House. 

Located on Gordon Street, Artspace Mackay is an exciting regional art gallery, hosting an ever-changing program of visual arts and social history, a must see for the creative type. 
Delight in waterfront views at Mackay’s modern marina. View luxury yachts gently bobbing on the tranquil harbour, as you savour the casual cuisine along the palm-lined promenade. Nearby Harbour Beach is a popular area for swimming and beachside barbeques and scooters are available for hire in the area. 

A short drive from the Mackay Marina is Slade Point, where an elevated lookout provides glorious panoramic views out towards the southern islands of the Great Barrier Reef. At the foot of the lookout, Lamberts Beach is a family-friendly picnic location, with shady trees, a children’s playground and a patrolled beach.