Discover Cape Hillsborough

Sunrises, wildlife and coastal moments you won’t forget

There are few places in the Mackay Isaac region that feel as unique as Cape Hillsborough.

Just north of Mackay, this coastal pocket blends national park, beach and wildlife into one unforgettable experience. It’s the kind of place where your day starts with a sunrise and ends with salty air, sandy feet and a sense that you’ve found something a little different.

Whether you’re staying the night or visiting for the day, Cape Hillsborough is one of those places that stays with you.

What to expect

Cape Hillsborough is all about slowing down and taking it in.

Think quiet beaches, forest-backed coastlines and a strong connection to nature. It’s a place where the pace shifts, and the focus moves to the simple things, like watching the tide roll in or spotting wildlife at first light.

It’s relaxed, scenic and just a little bit wild.

Start your day at sunrise

If there’s one experience Cape Hillsborough is known for, it’s sunrise.

As the first light hits the beach, kangaroos and wallabies make their way down to the shoreline, creating one of the most iconic scenes in the region. It’s a quiet, early-morning moment that feels both natural and unforgettable.

It’s worth setting the alarm for.

Explore the coastline

Beyond sunrise, there’s plenty to explore.

At low tide, you can walk across to nearby islands, discovering rock pools and coastal views along the way. Walking tracks wind through the national park, offering lookouts, shaded forest paths and a chance to experience the landscape from a different perspective.

It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours without really noticing the time.

From the stunning coastal views of Andrews Point, to the unique perspectives of the Diversity Boardwalk, you need to have these four walks on your to do list. Don’t forget to check the Mackay tide times for beach access to return from your walks.

Stay close to nature

To make the most of it, staying overnight is the way to go.

Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park offers a range of accommodation options, from beachfront cabins to camping and caravan sites, all set within the national park surroundings.

Waking up just moments from the beach means you can roll straight into sunrise, then spend the rest of the day exploring, relaxing, or simply enjoying the setting. You can even get your coffee fix after your early rise at the on-site cafe.

Better yet, the Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park is fully eco-certified, so you can rest easy knowing your stay is supporting responsible practices that preserve what matters most.

A place with history

Cape Hillsborough sits within a landscape rich in cultural and natural history.

The area holds significance for the Traditional Owners, the Yuwi people, and has long been a place of connection to land and sea. Today, that connection is still felt in the way visitors experience the region, through its wildlife, its landscapes and the sense of calm that comes with it. Appreciate the Yuwi people’s connection to country along the Yuwi plant walking trail.

Extend your stay

Why not stay a little longer? With just a short drive, you can explore the beautiful beachfront town in Seaforth for fishing, swimming, barefoot bowls, eateries and more, plus plenty of play areas and a splash pad for the kids. Nearby Halliday Bay and Ball Bay offer even more secluded stretches of beach to explore.

Plan your visit

Cape Hillsborough is an easy 45-minute drive north from Mackay and only 1.5hrs drive south from Airlie Beach, making it perfect for a weekend escape or a spot to stay and play along your East Coast drive.

Pack for early mornings, comfortable walks and time outdoors. Bring your camera, your curiosity and a willingness to slow things down.

Because once you’re here, you’ll realise it’s not just about what you do, it’s how it makes you feel.