School’s out, the Christmas countdown is on, and summer has well and truly arrived in Mackay Isaac. It’s the time of year when days blur together in the best way — a mix of last-minute plans, spontaneous swims, iced coffees, sandy feet and kids asking, “What are we doing today?”
Whether you’re staying local, hosting visiting family or sneaking in a short escape, the Mackay Isaac region makes it easy to keep everyone happy these Christmas and summer school holidays.
Easy Wins for Holiday Days at Home
Not every holiday day needs a big plan. Some of the best ones are the easy, familiar outings that give kids something to look forward to — and give parents a breather.
Throughout the holidays, Mackay Regional Council Libraries roll out a full program of school holiday activities designed to keep kids entertained and out of the heat. Expect Christmas craft, LEGO® free play, movie matinees, rock painting and storytelling sessions — relaxed, air-conditioned and easy to fit into any day.
Find dates and book sessions here
Running alongside this, the Big Summer Read encourages kids to keep reading over the break with fun challenges and themed activities. It’s a simple way to keep young minds ticking over without it feeling like schoolwork.
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If you’re planning ahead, Mackay Regional Council’s wider school holiday calendar is always worth a look. With a mix of creative workshops and nature-based activities, there’s usually something to suit most ages and energy levels.
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Beat the Heat: Pools, Swims and Freshwater Dips
Queensland is known for its epic summers, and Mackay Isaac is no exception. When summer turns the heat up, water becomes the main event.
When the heat really kicks in, Bluewater Lagoon is a go-to for families during the school holidays. With free entry, shaded areas, a kids splash park and plenty of space to spread out, it’s an easy way for kids to cool off and burn some holiday energy while parents relax nearby.
You can find opening hours and details here
You can also visit both Mackay Regional Council and Isaac Regional Council’s local pools and community facilities, head to the links for more information and opening hours.
Prefer freshwater? A day trip to Finch Hatton Gorge is a summer classic. Shaded rainforest walks lead to cool freshwater swimming holes — perfect for hot days when you want a mix of exploring and downtime. Pack swimmers and snacks, take it slow and let the kids lead the pace.
Make a Day of It
Some holiday days call for stepping it up a notch — without turning it into a big production.
Being out on the water at sunset has a way of slowing everything down. Nautical by Nature Mackay offers Marina Sunset Cruises that feel like holidays the moment you step aboard. Throughout January 2026, guests can enjoy a complimentary welcome glass of bubbles on arrival — just mention the offer when you board.
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For families travelling with thrill-seekers, Purple Thunder Jet Boat delivers fast, loud summer fun. It’s a hit with teens and adventurous kids, with 10% off selected weekend sessions using the code FIRST10 from 13 December 2025 to 1 February 2026.
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Slow Things Down at Oh Deere Farm Stay
If the holidays are your chance to unplug, reset and let the kids roam, a farm stay might be calling.
Oh Deere Farm Stay is all about reconnecting with nature, with each other, and with a slower pace of life. Days are filled with sugarcane mazes, kayaking, fishing and farm tours, while screens are forgotten and muddy feet become part of the plan. It’s the kind of place where kids sleep well and parents do too.
Current deals can be found here
Stretch the Holiday Miles: Clermont & Nebo Day Trips
If you’re happy to venture a little further afield, Clermont and Nebo offer endless country road trips that reward you with wide-open landscapes, local history and a slower holiday pace. These towns are made for unhurried exploring — the kind where you park the car, wander, and let the day unfold.
In Clermont, stretch your legs at Hoods Lagoon and enjoy front-row reviews of abundant birdlife, stop by the historic railway station and painted train carriages for a glimpse into the history of the area, and venture to Theresa Creek Dam for makes for an easy midday stop, while history buffs will enjoy landmarks like the Flood Memorial, Piano in the Tree, and the remains of the Copperfield Store and Chimney. For those keen to explore further, the surrounding Peak Ranges — including Wolfang Peak and Lord’s Table Mountain — deliver classic outback scenery.
Around Nebo, the pace slows even more. Enjoy a drink at the heritage-listed Nebo Hotel, take a gentle walk along Nebo Creek via the Bill Bruce Nature Walk, or jump in the car for a scenic drive to Mount Britton, an abandoned gold mining town frozen in time. Nature lovers can base themselves around Homevale National Park, Moonlight Dam or Lake Elphinstone, all offering camping, bushwalking and room to breathe. Don’t miss the impressive Nebo Murals, stretching more than 260 metres and bringing local stories to life.
New Year’s Eve, Mackay Isaac Style
New Year’s Eve in Mackay Isaac doesn’t come in just one flavour — and that’s part of the appeal.
If you’re chasing a big community celebration, the New Year’s Eve River Party at Bluewater Quay delivers a classic summer atmosphere. Live entertainment, food vendors and a relaxed riverside crowd build toward a fireworks display over the Pioneer River to close out the night.
Tuesday 31 December from 6pm
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For families holidaying along the coast, Cape Palmerston Holiday Park offers a more laid-back way to welcome the new year. Their free New Year’s Eve party runs from 6pm to midnight, with live music, food and fireworks creating an easy, family-friendly night by the beach.
Visitors planning to attend are encouraged to register via Humanitix to assist with catering. This event is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through the Tackling Regional Adversity through Connected Communities grant.
If a relaxed pub night feels more your speed, Nebo Hotel is keeping things simple and local. Live music from Paul Berger kicks off from 8pm in the main bar, with cocktail specials flowing and hot platters making the rounds. No bookings, no fuss — just a good night with friendly faces and a proper country send-off to the year.
From library activities to freshwater swims, farm stays, road trips and fireworks, Mackay Isaac makes it easy to shape the school holidays your way. However you spend it, summer here is about slowing down, getting outside and making the most of time together.