Things to do in Mackay

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Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland
Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland
Cape Hillsborough National Park showing cuddly or friendly animals and a sunset
Cape Hillsborough National Park featuring a sunset and general coastal views as well as a couple
Cape Hillsborough National Park showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and landscape views
Cape Hillsborough National Park showing cuddly or friendly animals

Mackay Attractions

If you're looking for exciting things to see and do in Mackay, get set to be busy. This bustling city knows how to turn up the fun. No matter your interests, you'll be inspired by the variety of tourist attractions to sink your teeth into here. Read on to discover a few of our favorites.

Find out what makes Mackay tick with some of the very best tours & day trips. Scroll through our {5 fun activities in Mackay fun activities in Mackay}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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What to do in Mackay

Free Things to Do in Mackay

A visit to Mackay doesn't have to cost a lot. You won't have to spend a penny if you go to:

Mackay Leisure Centre - Fun, fun and more fun is what you'll discover at this fantastic place.

Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard - Discover why both visitors and locals love the unique atmosphere of this place.

Bluewater Lagoon - Get out of life's fast lane and spend some time out close to the water.

Mackay Base Hospital - Flick through your guidebook and discover why this place is worth a spot on your itinerary.

Lamberts Beach - Toss a ball around with the kids or just sit back and enjoy the warm sun at this lovely coastal spot.

Queens Park Orchid House - Whether you can tell your peonies from poppies, you won't struggle to find beauty in this attractive display.

Things to Do in Mackay with Kids

Mackay has plenty of close by fun experiences for you and your kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the crew happy for hours.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Mackay? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Mackay

Mackay Base Hospital

Though Mackay Base Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Mackay while you are here.

Mackay Base Hospital

Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard

Explore the waterfront in Mackay with a trip to Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard. While in this relaxing area, you can enjoy the cafes.

Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard

Harrup Park

Harrup Park is just one of the places to see in Mackay, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along this relaxing area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Harrup Park

Caneland Central

During your trip to Mackay, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Caneland Central. Stroll along this family-friendly area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Caneland Central

Bucasia Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Bucasia Beach during your travels in Shoal Point?

Bucasia Beach

Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

You can enjoy retail therapy at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre during your visit to Mackay. Stroll along this relaxing area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Bluewater Lagoon

Bring your family to Bluewater Lagoon and have a fun-filled day at this amusement park in Mackay. Wander around the gardens in this relaxing area, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Bluewater Lagoon

Northern Beaches Bowls Club

You can take time to visit Northern Beaches Bowls Club during your travels to Mackay. Stroll along this relaxing area's marina, or simply enjoy its cafes.

Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Mackay Enertainment and Convention Centre

Learn about the events happening at Mackay Enertainment and Convention Centre during your trip to Mackay. Wander the marina and gardens in this relaxing area.

Mackay Enertainment and Convention Centre

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Mackay

Out on the southern break wall over looking the sugar stacks as the sun sets.

Mackay Harbour

Mackay Harbour is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard and Floodway Conservation Area.

Mackay Harbour
The magnificent orchid

North Mackay

Travelers like the shopping in North Mackay, and Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens is a top attraction you might want to visit.

North Mackay
Looking out from the Illawong beach resort. One of many beach resorts in the area

South Mackay

South Mackay is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like BB Print Stadium and Great Barrier Reef Arena.

South Mackay
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Dolphin Heads

Dolphin Heads is well-liked for its restaurants and gardens. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Eimeo Beach and Bucasia Beach are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Dolphin Heads
Mackay showing general coastal views, landscape views and a bay or harbor

City Centre

If you're spending some time in City Centre, Bluewater Lagoon and Caneland Central are top sights worth seeing.

City Centre
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East Mackay

Unique features of East Mackay include the restaurants and beaches. Make a stop by Ken Burgess Orchid House or Town Beach while you're exploring the area.

East Mackay
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Mackay worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor adventures, there are loads of great things to do in Mackay. Be sure to experience the area's blend of awesome attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Mackay?
Start your day with a visit to Eimeo Beach and Bucasia Beach. Then, explore different parts of Mackay for local dining and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Mackay?
Don't leave without exploring Eimeo Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Mackay.
Is three days enough to stay in Mackay?
You can easily visit leading attractions like Mackay Leisure Centre, Mackay Marina Village & Shipyard and Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens with a three-day trip to Mackay. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Mackay Region.
Is Mackay a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you want to do and see in Mackay. Several attractions, such as Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens and Jubilee Park, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Mackay's neighborhoods, West Mackay is 2 miles away from downtown, while East Mackay is 1 mile away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Mackay with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Mackay with kids.

What to do in Mackay for adults?
From regional food and cultural highlights to outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are many fun things to do in Mackay for adults.
Are there free things to do in Mackay?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Mackay is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Mackay Leisure Centre is one place that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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