Salt air one minute, rainforest the next
Whether you’re chasing coastal calm or craving a change of scenery further inland, these seabreeze stops and freshwater and hinterland escapes are the kind of places that make slowing down feel easy. Pick a few, mix them up, or let the day decide.
5 Seabreeze Stops
1. Cape Hillsborough
Sunrise moments and rockpool wandering
Cape Hillsborough National Park is one of those places that feels special no matter how many times you visit. Early mornings bring the chance to see kangaroos and wallabies on the beach, while the rest of the day is perfect for rockpool hunting, beach walks and letting the kids explore.
2. Lamberts Beach
Simple, spacious and family-friendly
Just north of Mackay, Lamberts Beach is an easy win for families and beach lovers alike. Calm waters, picnic areas and plenty of space to spread out make it ideal for swimming, fishing or doing absolutely nothing at all. Stay for an hour or an afternoon. Both work.
3. Island escapes with Endless Days
Offshore adventure, your way
If the idea of escaping offshore sounds appealing, Endless Days Private Charters and Island Tours make it easy. From half-day trips to full island adventures, these tours let you experience the region’s islands without the crowds. Snorkel, explore, or just soak up the feeling of being somewhere a little removed from everyday life.
4. Eimeo Beach and the Pacific Hotel
Where beach days roll into sunset drinks
Eimeo Beach delivers classic coastal vibes with a laid-back feel that suits the Free Spirit traveller. Spend the day swimming or walking the sand, then head up to the Eimeo Pacific Hotel for a meal or drink with sweeping ocean views. It’s the kind of place where one stop often turns into a long stay.
5. Bluewater Sculpture Trail
Art, water and wandering
Set right in the heart of Mackay, the Bluewater Sculpture Trail blends public art with green spaces and water views. It’s an easy wander for all ages, whether you’re stretching your legs after a swim at the lagoon or stopping in as part of a day exploring the city. No rush, no right direction. Just follow the path and see what catches your eye.
5 Freshwater & Hinterland Escapes
1. Finch Hatton Gorge
Freshwater swims and rainforest calm
Clear freshwater pools, shaded picnic spots and short rainforest walks make it an easy day out for all ages. Swim, float, wander or just sit back and enjoy the sounds of cascading waters under the rainforest canopy.
2. Eungella National Park
High views and quiet encounters
A drive up into Eungella feels like stepping into another world. Cooler temperatures, misty rainforest and sweeping views across the Pioneer Valley set the scene for slow exploring. Wander the walking tracks, keep an eye out for wildlife, and if you’re lucky, spot a platypus at Broken River during the quieter hours of the day.
3. Kinchant Dam
Wet the line or stay dry
Just west of Mackay, Kinchant Dam is a relaxed inland escape where families and free spirits alike come to slow things down. It’s ideal for kayaking, fishing, picnics or simply stretching out by the water with plenty of space around you.
4. Clermont
Gold country and outback stories
Clermont offers a completely different pace and a deep connection to the region’s past. This is gold country, where curiosity still leads the way and everyday travellers can try their luck fossicking in creeks and designated areas. For an easy, hands-on introduction, Golden Prospecting Tours Clermont lets you learn from locals on private land and working gold mines, with all the gear and guidance included.
5. Lord’s Table Mountain & Wolfang Peak
Big views, quiet moments and a sense of scale
Out near Clermont, the landscape starts to do the talking. Lords Table Mountain rises dramatically from the surrounding plains and is best enjoyed as a slow-down moment rather than a long stop. Pull over, take a few photos and soak up the sheer scale of it from the car. For those keen to stretch their legs, the Wolfang Peak walk offers a more active way to experience the country.