Paradise undiscovered: the best things to do in Bowen

It’s well-known that some of earth’s most spectacular scenery and attractions can be found in The Whitsundays. From the tropical tourist mecca of Airlie Beach, to the stunning Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach which has been crowned the world’s most beautiful, there’s no shortage of notoriously dazzling locations for your bucket list. 

Wind your way to the northern end of The Whitsundays region however, and you’ll meet Bowen: a Whitsundays town that’s a little more under-the-radar, but no less breathtaking. Although it earned the nickname “Bowenwood” when it served as the backdrop for Baz Luhrmann’s iconic film Australia, its secluded beaches (eight within ten minutes’ drive!), idyllic bays, and beckoning list of things to do are simply the perfect natural playground for a laid-back beach holiday. 

How to get to Bowen

Bowen is located on the shores of Edgecumbe Bay, just 40 minutes' drive north from Airlie Beach in the Whitsunday Region on the central coast of Queensland – about 1000 kilometres north of the state capital, Brisbane. 

There are a few different ways to get to Bowen. The most common is to fly into Proserpine Airport and then take a bus or a taxi into Bowen. Another way is to drive: Bowen is about a 10-hour drive from Brisbane, and there are a few different routes you can take. Whichever way you choose to get there, it’ll be hard to leave this gorgeous Queensland town.

The best things to do in Bowen

Looking for the best things to do in Bowen? Look no further – here are some of our top picks.

Snorkel at Horseshoe Bay

Grab your snorkel and mask and head for Horseshoe Bay, one of the most glorious, secluded spots to spend a day at the beach. Find fringing reefs just offshore waiting to be explored: discover the intertidal sculpture Bwya, majestic coral gardens, giant clams, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Check out the local street art

The vibrancy of Bowen doesn’t stop with its saturated blue waters and bright tropical fruits – it’s also known as the mural capital of Australia. Spot eye-catching street art around almost every corner, from the giant painted water silo, to scenes of the town’s pioneering history throughout its main streets, and murals adorning the fronts of local businesses.

The Big Mango

Queensland’s full of iconic Big Things – and what could be more quintessentially Queensland than a Big Mango? Take a selfie with the 10-metre high tropical fruit that is the namesake of the town for the ultimate souvenir, followed by a deliciously refreshing Bowen mango sorbet from the Visitor Centre.

Watch the sunset at Flagstaff Hill

For a 360-degree view that will stay with you long after you leave, take front row seats at one of nature’s most spectacular shows: Bowen’s Flagstaff Hill lookout. As the sunset paints the sky with gold, settle in to watch your pick of shimmering ocean and offshore islands; the harbour, marina, and jetty; or the township and mountain-studded Whitsunday hinterland beyond. Visiting in winter? It’s also the perfect land-based whale-watching vantage point.

Sunday beachside markets

Held amongst the majestic shady trees of Hansen Park and beside pretty Queens Bay, the Sunday Markets are one of the best things to do in Bowen. Each week year-round from 8am till 12 noon you can browse over 50 stalls ranging from local produce to handmade craft and delectable street eats, all to the sound of live music.

Soak up the sunshine at Grays Bay 

With its creamy sands and calm blue water, Grays is a scenic and safe swimming beach but the best time to visit is for one of its magnificent sunsets. It’s one of the few places on the East Coast where you can watch the sun set over the ocean. Keep walking towards the headland for the very best views.

Cape Edgecumbe walking trail

Lace up your sneakers for one of the most picturesque short hikes you’ll ever experience. With its various elevations, native birds and wildlife, postcard-perfect views, and sculptural rock formations, Cape Edgecumbe walking trail begins at Horseshoe Bay, winds past Murray Bay and finishes at Rose Bay. It’s 2.5kms in total, although there are entry points at all three bays so you can choose where to start and finish.

Grab fresh fish and chips from Birds Fish Bar 

Head to Birds Fish Bar, where this local family business is cooking up ocean delicacies unloaded from their boats daily. Melt-in-your-mouth freshly caught seafood like coral trout, red emperor, Spanish mackerel, barramundi, prawns, and mud crabs pair perfectly with a cold drink overlooking the sparkling Bowen Marina.

Check out heritage buildings

While Aboriginal people inhabited the Bowen region long before the first settlers arrived, it was officially declared a town in 1861 and holds the title of North Queensland’s oldest. Many buildings from Bowen’s pioneer era have been preserved – stroll around and explore the historic museum, heritage cottages and cabins, the Old General Store (that’s now the town library), Bowen Island United Church, and historic Post Office building.

Day trip to Whitsundays

With relaxed Bowen as your base, take a day trip to some of the Whitsunday region’s must-see spots. Sail the crystal-clear waters, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, have lunch in bustling Airlie Beach or gaze over the swirling sands and turquoise waters of world-famous Whitehaven Beach.

Where to stay in Bowen

Accommodation options in Bowen are as varied as its list of things to do. Whitsunday Sands Resort, sitting on its very own peninsula, offers private beach access to both Gray’s Bay and Horseshoe Bay, while Rose Bay Resort is located on absolute waterfront with gorgeous sea and island views. 

Find modern, self-contained accommodation along with an on-site restaurant at Coral Cove Apartments, or Queens Beach Tourist Village and NRMA Bowen Beachfront Holiday Park are excellent options for affordable beachside digs.