National Parks and Reserves

20 kilometres north of Mackay lies the Hibiscus Coast which includes the delightful seaside towns of Seaforth, Halliday Bay, Ball Bay and Cape Hillsborough. This is the perfect place to find a quiet beach or picnic table and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Cape Hillsborough National Park is where the rainforest meets the coastal water of the Coral Sea, with a beautiful beach shared with the local wallabies, scenic nature walks and spectacular views. The Cape Hillsborough Nature Resort offers beachside accommodation and facilities.

At low tide you can walk from the Cape Hillsborough beach to the Wedge Island Reef via a causeway. Wedge Island is fringed with nearby coral, a popular snorkelling destination. Just remember to return before the tide starts coming in as the causeway will recede underwater.

Camp on a remote island in Newry Islands National Park. Launch your boat from the Victor Creek boat ramp. Abandoned resort ruins are located near the camp site on Newry Island.