Eat, Sip, and Wander: A Free Spirit’s Guide to Food & Drink in the Mackay Isaac Region

If your road trip mantra is “go where the vibe flows”, then the Mackay Isaac Region is your kind of playground.

From beachside brews to mountaintop meals, this is where spontaneity meets flavour. Here’s your ultimate list of must-stop food and drink experiences—grouped by vibe, not rules.

 

1. Family-Friendly Feasts & Fun Vibes

Wake House Australia


Situated in the Andergrove Lakes housing estate, Wake House Australia is a premier wakeboarding destination offering sessions for all skill levels, from introductory clinics to free riding. Beyond the water, the venue features a Lakeside Café and Sunset Bar, where families can relax and enjoy regular live music and events.

Riverside Markets


Held every Thursday from 3pm to 7pm at Bluewater Quay, the Mackay Riverside Market showcases a variety of fresh produce and artisan goods. Visitors can enjoy delicious dinners and desserts from food trucks, watch the sunset, and listen to live music from open mic performers.

Deep Gully Farm


Located at the foothills of Mt Martin in the Pioneer Valley, Deep Gully Farm is a 110-acre property where visitors can interact with goats and purchase handmade, goat milk-based products. The farm emphasises wholesome, healing products derived from their daily goat milking routines.

Three more to try

Organic & Natural Store


Enjoy organic coffee, tea, cakes, and pastries in a tropical garden teahouse.

Harrup Park Country Club


With a kids’ club, bistro, and gaming lounge, this spot offers something for everyone.

Moss On Wood


Modern styling meets relaxed dining, perfect for family meals or catching up with friends.

 

 

2. Romantic Dates & Sunset Sips Vibes

Bush Heli Picnic


Bush Heli-Services offers unique helicopter tours around Clermont, providing scenic flights to picturesque locations. One of their offerings includes a waterfront picnic experience at Theresa Creek Dam, complete with locally sourced nibbles and a beverage.

Eimeo Hotel


Perched atop a cliff, the Eimeo Pacific Hotel offers breathtaking ocean views, making it an ideal spot for a romantic meal. Open seven days a week, they serve lunch from 11am to 2pm, dinner from 5pm to 8pm, and breakfast on weekends from 8am to 11am.

Eungella Chalet


Built in 1933, the Eungella Chalet is a historic guest house offering panoramic views of the Pioneer Valley. Located adjacent to the Mackay Highlands Great Walk, it's a gateway to Eungella National Park, featuring diverse flora and fauna. The chalet provides accommodation and a licensed bar and restaurant, making it a perfect romantic getaway.

Two more to try

De Nicolo’s Restaurant


Experience authentic Italian cuisine with handmade pasta in a cozy setting.

The Dispensary


Boasting Mackay's largest wine and whisky collection, this spot offers a sophisticated dining experience.

 

3. Outdoor Eats & Picnic Vibes

Note Park Grazing Co.

Located just 30km west of Mackay, Note Park Grazing Co. is a producer of premium grass-fed beef and offers a beautiful country venue for weddings and events. The property provides unparalleled privacy and space in a relaxed rural environment, with special dining experiences hosted by Joe that offer a unique way to gather and connect. Book early to secure your place, these events fill quickly.

Lotus Creek Homestead


Situated less than two hours from Mackay, the Homestead at Lotus Creek offers pet-friendly accommodation, including powered and unpowered campsites, as well as cabins. Guests can enjoy a café by day and a restaurant by night, along with amenities like a convenience store and fuel station.

BarraCrab Caravan Park


Located in Clairview, where the highway nearly touches the beach, BarraCrab Caravan Park offers beachfront camping and dining. Guests can relax in a natural environment, perfect for fishing, camping, or taking a break from the highway.

 

4. Unique & Offbeat Experiences

One Hungry Mumma


Nestled in Finch Hatton, One Hungry Mumma is renowned for its prize-winning small-batch condiments and immersive in-home culinary experiences. Visitors can participate in themed dinners under the stars, such as Mexican Fiestas or Italian nights, and join cooking workshops (Asian-style and pasta-making) that highlight fresh, local produce. The on-site food van, Frankie, adds a unique touch to this gastronomic adventure.

Red Dog Brewery


With a venue in Rural View and another in the CBD on the banks of the Pioneer River, Red Dog Brewery is an all-grain commercial craft brewery and bar that produces unique beer styles using quality ingredients from around the world. Guests can enjoy craft beer, wine, spirits, or cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere, with operating hours from Thursday to Sunday.

Mingle Events Co.


Mingle Events Co. specialises in boutique minibus tours throughout the Northern and Southern regions of Mackay, showcasing the best of the area's local shopping, food, and attractions. Offerings include Mingle Minis Tours, Mingle Events, and event planning, all designed to bring people together and highlight local legends.

11 more to try

Brew Social


Don’t be fooled by the name. This crisp brew only comes after a 5km social walk or run with the Brew Social run club.

Mackay Showground Markets


Explore a variety of stalls offering local produce, crafts, and more every Saturday morning.

Mount Jukes Family Farm


Experience farm life, authentic Italian home-made pizza and fresh produce in a picturesque setting.

Nebo Hotel


Enjoy hearty meals and a friendly atmosphere in this historic country pub.

Pinnacle Whistle Stop Café


Take a break with delicious snacks and a warm welcome.

Sarina Beach Motel Restaurant


Dine with ocean views and a relaxed coastal vibe.

Sarina Sugar Shed


Learn about sugar production and taste unique rum and liqueurs before enjoying a meal in their award-winning cafe.

Roots Café


Savour wholesome meals and a community-focused atmosphere in the heart of Sarina.

Seaforth Country Club


Enjoy golf, dining, and events in a scenic location.

Seaforth Mega Markets


Browse a wide range of stalls offering everything from fresh produce to crafts on the first Sunday of each month.

St. Lawrence Wetlands Weekend


Experience a unique blend of enviro-education, cultural activities, and delicious food during this annual event.

 

Eat Where the Mood Moves You

Ready to hit the road? Let your taste buds and sense of adventure guide you through the Mackay Isaac Region. No plans, no worries – just follow your spirit and discover your next favourite foodie spot.