Mackay

Mackay is on the Whitsunday Coast and is very pretty. It has a vibrant café and bar scene among its lush, palm-lined streets. Very popular is the rainbow lorikeets chatter at sunset time. You’ll need a car to make terrific back-to-bush experience, scenery and walks. West of town are the “Pioneer Valley” and “Eungella National park”, “Brampton” and “Carlisle Islands” are up north. The world’s largest sugar-loading terminal boasts Port Mackay.

The best swimming, close to town, is on “Harbour Beach”. A glorious stretch for swimming and long walks is “Bucasia Beach” further north. For staying overnight is the “YHA Larrikin Lodge” with A$ 17 per night and dorm recommended.