Blissful Northern Beaches

To view a spectacular sunset over the rugged peaks of Cape Hillsborough, end your journey at Shoal Point. Barbecue facilities at O'Brien Esplanade reserve provide a tranquil setting under majestic trees, overlooking the sparkling water.

Enjoy a barbecue dinner while watching the sunset behind the tropical hinterland, and watch as an array of colourful parrots make their way home during twilight.

If travelling from Mackay's Central Business District, head north on the Bruce Highway past Northpoint Retail shopping area, and then turn right onto Mackay-Bucasia Road.

Take the opportunity to explore the various shopping centres along the way, to stock up on supplies for a day at the beach. Don't forget to take plenty of water and sunscreen!

Turn onto Eimeo Road and follow the signs to Blacks Beach, Mackay's longest continuous beach, stretching six kilometres. Stroll the shoreline, or explore the cool tracks amongst the vegetation which fringes the long beach

Follow Eimeo Road and head to a swimmers paradise at Eimeo Beach. Drive under a canopy of mango trees at Mango Avenue, a heritage-listed attraction that stretches between Whittles Lane and Heidke Street, forming a shaded canopy above the streetscape.

Choose to picnic on the beach using the facilities on Eimeo Esplanade, or dine with incredible ocean views at a nearby hotel or resort.

Continue your journey along the Mackay-Bucasia Road, and follow road sign directions along Downie Ave to reach Bucasia Beach. Enjoy coffee and cake with a refreshing sea-breeze before burying your toes into the warm sand of Bucasia's expansive beach.

Seaview Park on the Bucasia Esplanade provides facilities to freshen up and relax, including a barbecue, showers, toilets, picnic tables and a children's playground.