The drive between Mackay and Cairns takes you through some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal scenery – from the white sands of Airlie Beach to the sparkling waters of the Whitsunday Islands to the laid back villages of Mission Beach.
The most direct route is 735 kilometres long, and takes around eight hours to drive.
But, if you want to make the most of it, plan some stops along the way. Here are three to build your journey around.
STOP ONE: AIRLIE BEACH
Two hours’ drive north of Mackay is Airlie Beach.
This magical town is best known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands, but there’s loads to explore on the mainland.
Highlights include sunbathing on the impossibly white sands of Boathaven Beach, strolling along the boardwalk to Cannonvale Beach and hiking to Honeyeater Lookout.
To explore a little of the hinterland, take the 30 minute drive west to Cedar Creek Falls, where you can swim beneath a natural waterfall surrounded by rainforest.
Keen to visit the Whitsunday Islands while you’re in Airlie Beach? You’re spoilt for choice. Hamilton Island, Daydream Island and Hayman Island are all just a day trip away.
STOP TWO: TOWNSVILLE
After another three hours’ drive north, you’ll reach Townsville.
This city of around 200,000 people is another popular launching pad for travellers wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef.
Before heading out on the water, though, spend some time exploring town. Start your adventures at the Reef HQ Barrier Reef Aquarium, which is the biggest living coral reef aquarium in the world, and home to a series of mesmerising underwater sculptures.
Next, hike up Castle Hill for breathtaking panoramic views, before taking a stroll along The Strand, a waterfront promenade that’s ideal for a slow coffee, long lunch or indulgent dinner overlooking the water.
Just eight kilometres off Townsville is Magnetic Island, a tropical wonderland with literally something for everyone.
Nature lovers have 23 beaches to choose from, as well as hectares of national park to explore – dotted with waterfalls, granite formations and pristine forests where you might spot wild koalas.
Meanwhile, thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline hits at Horseshoe Bay, where jet-skiing, wakeboarding and kayaking are all on offer.
STEP THREE: MISSION BEACH
Keep heading north for another three hours to reach Mission Beach.
It’s on the Cassowary Coast, which, despite being the spot where the Great Barrier Reef comes closest to the mainland, is surprisingly quiet.
The beach stretches for 14 glorious kilometres, backdropped by lush tropical rainforest all the way. There are four lovely villages to visit: Bingil Bay, North Mission, Wongaling Beach and South Mission.
Be sure to drop by bohemian Bingil Bay for a coffee, take a stroll along the coast-hugging Kennedy Walking Track, try a white water rafting session in Tully Gorge National Park, and while away a morning at Mission Beach Markets.
Offshore, there’s a bunch of beautiful islands to visit. For unspoilt nature, take a day trip to Dunk Island (where you can camp the night); for incredible snorkelling, head to the Family Islands; and for extraordinary luxury, book a stay at Bedarra Island.
It’s just another two hours’ drive north to Cairns, where you’ll find a wealth of things to do – from unexpected experiences like visiting the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest butterfly house and seeing Australia’s only samurai gallery, to taking a dip at magical swimming beaches.
GETTING TO MACKAY
Mackay is an 11 hour drive north of Brisbane.
If that sounds like too long a drive, you can fly to Mackay Airport, then pick up a SIXT car rental in the terminal.
Our fleet ranges from affordable sedans to luxurious SUVs to hardy 4WDs, so there’s a rental vehicle for you, whatever your needs.
