Mackay is a city on the Queensland coast. It enjoys a favourable position due to its exposure to the Great Barrier Reef, the National Parks and the Pioneer Valley. Tourism is an emerging force in Mackay due to its undeniable potential as a resort. Huge investment projects like the Bluewater Trail plans to link all of the town's coastal and garden amenities. Marina Village is the centrepiece, built beautifully into the town's port and a perfect place for an evening meal. Rent a car in Mackay and drive to the coastal National Parks to the north, or to Mackay's pleasant neighbouring cities. Hiring a car in Mackay is available from Mackay Airport.
Mackay is a very well presented city, with a host of inviting architectural features, which include the Bluewater Lagoon, Marina Village and the Botanical Gardens. Pioneer Valley provides a dramatic landscape for the city, and scenic drives along the Pioneer River are popular with those hiring a car in Mackay. For a bit of relaxation on the Queensland coast, head for Eimeo Beach, Shoal Point or Harbour Beach. Harbour Beach is closest - less than 10minutes away on Mackay-Slade Point Road. Eimeo and Harbour Beach are further north yet still just a 20 minute drive, emphasising why you should rent a car in Mackay.
Mackay has some fantastic coastal geography at its disposal. The city is an access point to the Great Barrier Reef, and it also makes a good base from which to explore the surrounding National Parks. Cape Hillsborough National Park is 45 minutes north of Mackay using the Bruce Highway and Yakapari-Seaforth Road. Cape Hillsborough is a coastal National Park with a renowned and beautiful beach. The Eungella National Park is a similar distance north but further inland than Cape Hillsborough. Drive to Eungella on the Bruce Highway, here you'll see some of the most breathtaking views over the Pioneer Valley.
