Mackay City Guide
In eastern Queensland, you'll find the town of Mackay. Because it overlooks both the Pioneer River and the Coral Sea, the city has no shortage of outdoor fun!
Most visitors wind up in Mackay because it is so close to the Eungella National Park. Sitting in the mountains, the park is one of the most diverse in Australia. It's home to nearly 900 different plant species and countless animals - all of which you can see on the many walking trails and the Broken River viewing platform.
Back in town, the Mackay Marina Village and Shipyard offers a shipyard, gourmet restaurants, boats to rent, and spots to have a picnic. It's also right next to Harbour Beach, so you'll be able to walk right onto the sand!
If you want to go where the locals go, spend a relaxing day fishing on the Pioneer River. There are plenty of good spots to catch something, but many people prefer casting their lines from the Forgan Bridge.
If you want to shop like the locals do, head to the Mackay Sunday markets. Located right on Victoria Street in city centre, you can find everything from produce to jewellery. There's usually live music, too, so you don't have to shop in silence.
If you want to learn more about Mackay, the place to do it is at Artspace Mackay - an art gallery and museum that tells the stories of Mackay's people and culture. The building itself is an architectural marvel, winning several awards for its design!
Most of Mackay's hotels lie just south of the Pioneer River. There is a variety of accommodation on Victoria Street - which will put you within walking distance to both the Sunday markets and Artspace Mackay.
If you're after a great waterfront view - but want to be away from the crowds - head to East Mackay.