Cape Hillsborough National Park

We didn’t get up for the sunrise kangaroos but the view is still totally worth going , so pretty ! A very nice day !

Great national park! There are a big parking and a park next to an hotel. In the park you can find BBQs, picnic tables, a water fountain, outside showers, toilets, and some games for children.

Cape Hillsborough National Park, located on Queensland’s central coast, is a captivating destination that combines pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and unique wildlife encounters. This hidden gem offers visitors a chance to experience the best of Australia’s natural beauty in a peaceful and remote setting. The park’s scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Visitors are greeted by dramatic coastal headlands, lush rainforests, and eucalyptus woodlands that stretch out to the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea. Each turn along the walking trails offers a new perspective, from sweeping ocean views to the tranquil sounds of the forest. Beyond wildlife watching, the park offers a range of activities for all types of visitors. There are several walking trails, such as the Andrews Point Track, which takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, including rainforests and rocky lookouts, with breathtaking coastal views. For those who enjoy water activities, the park’s beaches are perfect for swimming and fishing, although caution is advised due to the presence of marine stingers during certain seasons. While Cape Hillsborough’s remote location contributes to its charm, it also means facilities are limited. Basic amenities like picnic areas, barbecue facilities, and toilets are available, but visitors should come prepared with their own food, water, and supplies. Accommodation options include a small camping area within the park and nearby lodges and caravan parks. The best time to visit Cape Hillsborough is during the dry season, from April to September, when the weather is mild, and the chances of rain are lower. This period also provides the best conditions for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities. **Pros:** - Stunning natural landscapes with diverse scenery. - Tranquil atmosphere, away from crowds. **Cons:** - Limited facilities and amenities. - Remote location requires careful planning for supplies and transportation. - Risk of marine stingers in the water during certain seasons. In conclusion, Cape Hillsborough National Park is a must-visit destination for those who love nature, wildlife, and the great outdoors. While its remote setting and lack of extensive facilities may not suit every traveler, those who make the journey will be rewarded with unforgettable experiences in one of Queensland’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.

We stayed at Smalley's Beach for one night but it was so lovely you could easily stay a while. Only toilets available, no showers. Very spacious campsites and ours had a picnic table and path down to the beach. Beautiful view through the trees and we sat down on the sand to eat dinner and watch the tide rise. A really relaxing evening and we even spotted an echidna!

Great walk, quite steep but good once you get to the top. If you keep going and don't stop it is about a 45kin walk to Turtle Lookout and Back. Beautiful on a clear day, heaps of Turtles and sea life. People at the shop are great too👍

The beach itself is gorgeous, in a c shape with a separate island that you can walk across on low tide. We arrived on a very windy day and there were lots of men in wind buggy cart things that looked like incredible fun zooming down the beach! Recon this should be made something you can book in to do but I think it was just there hobby! Anyway, the campsite is right on the edge of the beach, perfect for the sunrise wake up time! Cost us $42 for a powered site as it was full for unpowered.. but it was only $5 extra for the bonus of having a plug! Yay. The sunrise with the kangaroos and wallaby’s on the beach is beyond magical.

Simply a gorgeous place to visit. It's got to be on your must-see place in the Mackay area! Awesome anytime, but sunrise on the beach is fantastic 🌅

It is a beautiful campground and one of the places to be while going up or down the east coast. You don't want to miss seeing free wallabies on the beach at morning. We even saw des turtles and whales.