Cape Hillsborough National Park Mackay Isaac

Cape Hillsborough day-use area is a shaded picnic spot fringed by sandy beach. Photo credit: John Atkinson © Queensland Government

The ruggedly scenic landscape of Cape Hillsborough National Park. Photo credit: Linda Thompson © Queensland Government

Cape Hillsborough day-use area

Spend your day in this tranquil picnic area, flanked by a pristine sandy beach and boulder-strewn slopes.

Accessible by

  • Conventional vehicle

Attraction facilities

  • Electric/fuel barbecue (free of charge)
  • Picnic tables
  • Toilets (flush)
  • Wheelchair access (may require assistance)

Stretch out on the grass under the trees and drift away to the gentle sounds of the waves rolling up the beach.

Cook your lunch on the BBQ before heading off on one of the many walks—Andrews Point track, Beachcomber Cove track and Yuwi plant trail can all be reached from here.

Paddle, fish and boat off the beach, and around nearby Wedge Island. A boat launching area is provided by the Mackay Regional Council at the southern end of the day-use area.

Explore the rock pools at low tide and marvel at the intricate patterns made by sand bubbler crabs on the broad beach. In the late afternoon, sit back and watch as agile wallabies come to the beach, shrouded in a sky awash with sunset colours.

Please remember, dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted in the Cape Hillsborough day-use area. Please make other arrangements for your dogs and pets.

Getting there and getting around

The Cape Hillsborough day-use area is in Cape Hillsborough National Park, 50km north-west of Mackay, on the Central Queensland coast.

The day-use area is located 2.3km from the park entrance. Follow Cape Hillsborough Road to Risley Parade. The national park day-use area is located at the northern end of Risley Parade. Access is suitable for conventional vehicles.

Wheelchair access

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Cape Hillsborough day-use area is open all year round.

Check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions.

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Cape Hillsborough safely.

  • There are currently no park alerts for this park.

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