Tourism and Events Queensland

Romantic Getaway in Mackay

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  5. Romantic Getaway in Mackay

Romantic Getaway in Mackay

Whether you want to lose yourself in nature, explore the Great Barrier Reef or walk along the beach with Kangaroos, Mackay has so many things to do and tick off your bucket list. 

Kangaroos on the beach, Cape Hillsborough
Tourism and Events Queensland

The Itinerary

Duration: 48 hours | Bucklet list things to do in Mackay

Day 1: Sunrise at Cape Hillsborough and Exploring Mackay

Early Morning: Sunrise with Wallabies at Cape Hillsborough Beach

Departure: Set off early from your accommodation to reach Cape Hillsborough Beach before dawn, located 45 minutes from Mackay.
Activity: Experience the magical sunrise alongside wallabies and kangaroos on the beach.
Duration: Spend about 1-2 hours at the beach, allowing time for those Instagram shots and enjoying the serene environment.

Mid-Morning: Breakfast and Bushwalk

Breakfast: Visit a local tea house near Cape Hillsborough for a hearty breakfast, featuring scones, jam, and cream.
Bushwalk: After breakfast, take a guided bushwalk in Cape Hillsborough National Park, enjoying scenic views and wildlife sightings.

Early Afternoon: Return to Mackay and City Exploration

Drive Back: A 45-minute drive will take you back to Mackay from Cape Hillsborough.
Lunch and City Tour: Once in Mackay, enjoy lunch at a local café and spend the early afternoon exploring the city's cultural and historical landmarks.

Late Afternoon: Eimeo Beach and Sunset Bay

Drive to Eimeo Beach: Head towards Eimeo Beach in the late afternoon, passing through the picturesque Mango Avenue.
Sunset at Sunset Bay: Arrive at Sunset Bay to capture the beautiful sunset, creating a romantic atmosphere and the perfect location for those Instagram pics.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant near Eimeo Beach, preferably with outdoor seating to enjoy the ocean views.

Kangaroos on the beach, Cape Hillsborough
Tourism and Events Queensland
Cape Hillsborough Beach, Mackay Region
Smalleys Beach Camp Ground, Cape Hillsborough National Park
Driving the beach road - Seaforth Beach, Mackay
Mackay - View from Rock Bay, Cape Hillsborough National Park
Mackay Snorkel Tours - Great Barrier Reef Tours
Eimeo Beach, Mackay Region
Keswick Island, Mackay Region
Tourism and Events Queensland
Mackay - A bird's eye view of Keswick Island,
Mackay Marina
Keswick Island, Mackay Region
Keswick Island, Mackay Region
Ulysses Butterfly, Mackay Islands

Day 2: The Wild Cat Reef Tour

A sought-after excursion in Mackay, offering an immersive experience in the stunning Great Barrier Reef.

Type of Tour: Full-Day Guided Tour
Departure Point: Mackay Marina Village
Duration: Approximately 7 hours

What to Expect on the Wild Cat Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling trip:

Morning Departure: Enjoy a coffee in the Mackay Marina Village before departing at 9am on your Wild Cat Reef Snorkelling Tour. You'll board a comfortable boat equipped with wave-piercing technology for a smoother ride to the Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkelling and Diving: The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. The tour caters to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced snorkellers and divers.
Marine Life and Coral Exploration: You'll get up close with an array of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even dolphins. The vibrant coral formations are a sight to behold, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the reef.
Guided Activities: Experienced guides offer insights into the ecosystem of the reef and may lead guided snorkelling tours to point out interesting features and wildlife.
Onboard Facilities and Lunch: A freshly prepared lunch, morning and afternoon snacks are provided on board. Bring along some cash and buy beverages and snacks on the boat as we explore the Great Barrier Reef.
Return Journey: After a day filled with adventure and discovery, the boat will take you back to the departure point around 4pm.

Things to Note for your Wild Cat Snorkelling trip:

What to Bring: Sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, a towel, and a camera (preferably waterproof) are essential. The Red Cat Adventures team offer wetsuits and snorkelling gear.
Booking in Advance: It's advisable to book the Red Cat Reef Tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability, so contact the Barrier Reef Australia team to book now!

Evening:

There’s a number of classy and private restaurants around Mackay with dim lighting and soft music where you can enjoy a delicious meal with your loved one after a big day boating and exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Some of the top romantic restaurants, with delicious menus, are Romeo and Juliet’s or Fusion128 or Church on Palmer.

OR 

Watch the sunset over the Mackay Marina while enjoying a glass of champagne, some tasty nibbles and chilled-out tunes on board the Wildcat 2 hour sunset cruise. The cruise returns either at 7.00pm or 7.30pm just in time to visit one of the many amazing restaurants at the Mackay Marina.

This carefully curated 48-hour Mackay itinerary offers an ideal mix of breathtaking natural beauty, unique wildlife encounters, bucket list locations and vibrant city exploration, perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway in Mackay. There are so many things to do in Mackay. 

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