Plan Your Trip
Rainforest to Reef
Distance
250km
How
Car or Camper
Where
Mackay to The Whitsundays
Date
Year round
Our four-day itinerary from rainforest to reef will see you experience lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, pristine beaches and tropical island paradises – on a breathtaking journey of discovery and adventure.
DAY 1
Mackay to Eungella National Park
Start your journey in Mackay and travel through the picturesque Pioneer Valley to discover Eungella National Park. Featuring more than 20km of walking tracks, 860 plant species and the world’s healthiest population of wild platypus, Eungella is ripe for exploration. Don’t leave without visiting Sky Window Lookout, watching platypus at Broken River or taking a refreshing dip at the waterfalls of Finch Hatton Gorge.
Now onwards to Cape Hillsborough, so get ready for another big day!
DAY 2
Mackay to Airlie Beach
Wake up early and head to Cape Hillsborough beach at first light. Discover one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife encounters with the Sunrise with the Wallabies experience. After sunrise, explore the dazzling walks and lookouts around Cape Hillsborough, and the rock pools of Wedge Island.
After a fantastic morning at the beach, head back into the car and drive to north to Airlie Beach. Before you leave the Mackay region, take advantage of one of Queensland’s only net free zones in the waters off Seaforth. Full of prized fish species, you might even catch a barramundi.
DAY 3
Airlie Beach
You’ve reached Airlie Beach! The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands. Boasting a broad array of accommodation, you can chill out at the renowned Airlie Lagoon or enjoy a gentle stroll along the Bicentennial Boardwalk during the day. Once the sun goes down Airlie comes to life so hit the town for some excellent dining options and then stay out for a taste of the famed Airlie Beach nightlife.
DAY 4
Airlie Beach to Whitsunday Islands
Jump out of the car and into a boat! Take advantage of one of the many Whitsunday tour operator experiences and let the spectacular landscape and endless islands keep you entertained! The Whitsunday Islands lends itself to some of the best sailing in the southern hemisphere so relax with a sunset cocktail on board your vessel. Swim at one of the many secluded beaches and witness the incredible marine life which calls the fringing reefs around the islands home.
