Important Information on Flights to Mackay
The city of Mackay is nothing short of a tropical paradise. Located in sunny Queensland, it’s known for its lush rainforest, nearby islands and access to some of the most beautiful parts of the Great Barrier Reef. With an unbeatable combination of warm weather, spectacular scenery, top-notch fishing and incredible wildlife, travellers have a lot to look forward to when booking flights to Mackay.
Take in the city’s highlights with a walk along Mackay Marina, dip your toes in the water at Harbour Beach, or go for a swim at the Bluewater Lagoon. One thing you’ll definitely want to pack for this tropical getaway is a pair of swimmers, with plenty of pools, waterfalls and secluded beaches to explore. Mackay is also known as Australia’s sugar capital, producing one-third of the nation’s sweet stuff. Tour the Sarina Sugar Shed for a taste of its history, or head for a tipple at Red Dog Brewery if you’re looking for another way to tantalise your taste buds.
As well as Mackay flights granting you a gateway to the reef, its nearby national parks are just as full of natural wonder. Trek deep within Eungella National Park to try and spot a rare platypus, or wake up early to practise your photography skills with a sunrise snap at the kangaroo-covered Cape Hillsborough Beach. You can also view the beauty of these surrounding areas from above, with a drive to Airlie Beach, known as one of the best places to go skydiving in Australia.
A quick 10-minute drive will get you from Mackay Airport (MKY) to the CBD, so you can start ticking things off your bucket list as soon as you arrive. Whether you’re looking to relax and revive or fill your days with fun activities, Mackay provides a perfect mix of tranquillity and adventure – the choice is yours. Find cheap flights to Mackay today and start planning your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Mackay
How long does it take to fly to Mackay?
The journey time for flights to Mackay will vary in length depending on your departure location. Flights from nearby cities such as Townsville and Rockhampton take less than an hour, whereas flights from Brisbane and the Gold Coast take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Flights from other departure locations may require connecting flights and will have longer journey times. For more information on popular Mackay flights, see below:
1 hour 30 mins From Brisbane
1 hour 30 mins From Gold Coast
0 hour 50 mins From Townsville
0 hour 50 mins From Rockhampton
When is the cheapest time of year to book return flights to Mackay?
January to April is considered the cheapest time to book flights to Mackay, as the warmer months fall during the rainy season. However, great deals can be found year-round, particularly when travelling outside of peak times. Book in advance to find cheap flights to Mackay to suit your travel dates.
Which airlines offer direct flights to Mackay?
Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar are the main airlines offering flights to Mackay. Availability will depend on your departure location, with some cities requiring connecting flights. Enter your travel dates into our Mackay flights deal finder to compare airlines and find the best route for you.
What is the airport code for flights to Mackay?
The airport code for flights to Mackay Airport is MKY.
What terminal will I arrive in for domestic flights to Mackay?
Mackay Airport operates from one passenger terminal. Al domestic flights to Mackay will land at the main terminal.
What terminal will I arrive in for international flights to Mackay?
All international flights to Mackay will land at the main terminal.
When is the best time of year to book flights to Mackay?
The best time of year to book flights to Mackay is from May to July. Thanks to its tropical location, the weather is still pleasant during this time of year, with moderate crowds and lower airfares available outside of the peak tourist season. Although considered the wet season, January to April is also a great time to find cheap flights to Mackay and deals on accommodation.
What cities can I fly to Mackay from?
Mackay Airport (MKY) frequently welcomes domestic flights from Brisbane, Gold Coast, Townsville and Rockhampton. Direct routes from other cities may be less frequent or require a connecting flight. Use our Mackay flights deal finder to find an itinerary that’s convenient for you.
How far is it from the airport in Mackay to the CBD?
Mackay Airport (MKY) is located approximately 6 km south of the CBD. A Translink public bus service connects passengers to the city, with options for taxis, rideshare and car rentals also available.
What Are Mackay's Top Attractions?
Bluewater Lagoon
As if being surrounded by tropical islands wasn’t enough, the city of Mackay boasts a three-tiered lagoon pool right in the heart of the CBD. Bluewater Lagoon is the perfect place for a refreshing swim, complete with slides and a children’s water park to keep the kids busy all afternoon. It’s one of the many things that makes Mackay a great family holiday destination.
Cape Hillsborough Beach
There’s no better place to watch the sunrise in Mackay than Cape Hillsborough Beach. Not only will you be treated to a spectacular display of purple, pink and orange sky, but it’s also the time of day when wallabies and kangaroos come down to the sand to forage. It’s one of Australia’s most iconic spots to snap a photo, with the backdrop and wildlife providing an experience like no other.
Great Barrier Reef
One of the many reasons travellers book flights to Mackay is for easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. Jump aboard a boat tour and head out to the northern frontier of the natural World Heritage wonder, where you can snorkel among marine life and sail to some of the most untouched locations and secluded beaches along the reef.
Mackay Marina
Drop a line along the Mackay Marina and test your fishing luck. The waters off the Mackay coast are brimming with a range of species, giving you ample opportunity to catch dart, golden trevally, mackerel, tuna and queenfish. While you wait to see if they’re biting, there’s plenty in the area to entertain. Next to the marina is the sandy Harbour Beach and Pine Islet Lighthouse, plus an array of shops, bars and restaurants nearby.
Eungella National Park
With forest-clad mountain ranges and clear river streams, the beauty of Eungella National Park is something you’ll long remember after leaving Mackay. Wind through the dense rainforest that leads to Finch Hatton Gorge and feast your eyes on the impressive Araluen Falls. It’s one of the most popular trails in the park, and the pathway is well-kept throughout the 1.6-kilometre journey. The Eungella National Park is also home to platypuses and rare frogs such as the gastric-brooding frog.
Keswick Island
It wouldn’t be a visit to Mackay without exploring a slice of the Whitsundays. Keswick Island can be reached by boat or helicopter, with the southernmost island situated 32 kilometres from the Mackay coast. Once on the ground at this tropical paradise, you can spend the day snorkelling the coral reefs, kayaking through the pristine waters, or walking to some of the most breathtaking views on the island.
Sarina Sugar Shed
If you’re up for a sweet adventure, the Sarina Sugar Shed will take you behind the scenes of Mackay’s sugarcane farms and production. See how the crop is grown, harvested, processed and milled into a unique range of products, including ice cream, sauces, chutneys, and even rum! Don’t worry; you’ll also get the chance to taste it all and pick up some goodies to take home.
Artspace Mackay
Art lovers will enjoy taking a wander through the gallery at Artspace Mackay, where a range of national and local artists are displayed. With easy parking and free entry, it provides the perfect afternoon activity. Each room features ever-changing, interesting exhibitions, and the accompanying café offers delicious options for a light lunch or quick pick-me-up.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Mackay?
When planning your flights to Mackay, consider the city’s subtropical climate. Though May to July is often thought of as the cooler months in Australia, Mackay’s temperatures average 21°C to 24°C at this time of year. Combine the pleasant days with lower airfares and moderate tourist crowds, and late autumn to winter is a great time to visit.
Spring is a popular time in Mackay, with temperatures rising as early as August and plenty of sunny, dry days ahead. Temperatures average 25°C to 29°C from September to November, and those keen to explore the Great Barrier Reef can also enjoy swimming stinger-free during these months. But don’t let that deter you from visiting from December to February. The rainforests of the nearby national parks are reinvigorated during the wet season, and with average temperatures of 30°C, a little rain will hardly stop you from swimming.
