Hay Point is a small coastal town located in the Mackay Region of Queensland, Australia. Situated approximately 39 kilometers south of Mack…
Best for you if…
Hay Point is a strong pick for beach holidays & water sports — plan about 5-7 days. Peak season: November to February.
Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 72/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈9.5 km span)
High season: November to February
Best months for lower-cost travel: May · June · September · October
March to May
September to November
December to February
June to August
Located in Queensland, Australia, Hay Point is a stunning coastal town that attracts visitors with its picturesque beaches and tranquil atmosphere. If you're planning a trip to Hay Point, here are a few ways to reach this beautiful destination:
The nearest major airport to Hay Point is Mackay Airport, which is approximately 30 kilometers away. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Mackay from major cities in Australia. Once you land at the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Hay Point. The drive from the airport takes around 30 minutes.
If you prefer a road trip, Hay Point is easily accessible by car. From Mackay, you can take the Bruce Highway (A1) southbound. Follow the signs to Hay Point, and the journey will take you approximately 30 minutes. The roads are well-maintained, and the scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Traveling to Hay Point by public transport is also an option. Mackay Transit Coaches operate regular bus services from Mackay to Hay Point. The bus journey takes around 40 minutes and provides a convenient and affordable way to reach the town. Check the bus schedules in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
If you're arriving by sea, Hay Point has a port that serves as a major export facility for coal. However, access to the port is restricted to authorized personnel only, and it is not a designated entry point for tourists.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, reaching Hay Point is relatively straightforward. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the stunning coastal beauty, pristine beaches, and a serene environment that make it a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Hay Point is a small coastal town located in the Mackay Region of Queensland, Australia. Situated approximately 39 kilometers south of Mackay, it is renowned for its large coal port and beautiful beaches. With a population of just over 1,000 people, Hay Point offers a tranquil and relaxed lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town is primarily known for its coal export terminal, which is one of the largest in the world. The terminal plays a crucial role in Queensland's economy, with millions of tons of coal being shipped out annually. The coal is transported by trains from various mines in the region and then loaded onto massive vessels bound for international markets. This bustling industrial activity provides employment opportunities for the local community and contributes significantly to the region's prosperity.
In addition to its industrial significance, Hay Point is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The town is nestled between two picturesque beaches, Half Tide Beach and Salonika Beach. These pristine stretches of sand are perfect for swimming, fishing, and enjoying leisurely walks along the shore. The crystal-clear waters and gentle coastal breeze make it an ideal destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Hay Point is also a popular spot for whale watching during the migration season. Visitors can catch a glimpse of humpback whales as they pass through the nearby waters, putting on a spectacular show with their acrobatic displays. The town's coastal location and its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef also make it a haven for divers and snorkelers, who can explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
6 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~1.2 km · 2 places
~2.1 km · 3 places
~1.9 km · 2 places
~2.1 km · 3 places
~1.9 km · 2 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~15.3 km path
~0.9 km path
~1.9 km path
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 5-7 days in Hay Point, Australia.
High season is typically November to February.
Travelers often find better value in May, June, September, October.
Hay Point suits Beach holidays, Water sports, Fishing trips, Nature exploration.
A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.
Pack sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun
Add Hay Point and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.
Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes
Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.
MU
Arsenal Mauritius is a beautiful coastal village located on the northeastern coast of Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean.
Venezuela
Punta De Piedra is a charming coastal town located in the northeastern region of Venezuela. Nestled along the Caribbean Sea, this picturesq…
United Kingdom
Ilfracombe is a charming coastal town located in the North Devon district of the United Kingdom. Situated on the rugged cliffs overlooking…
Australia
Hope Vale: Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty of Australia Located in Far North Queensland, Australia, Hope Vale is a…
Iran
Bandar-e Deylam is a coastal city located in the southern part of Iran, specifically in the Hormozgan Province. Situated on the Persian Gul…
MU
Cargados Carajos, also known as the Saint Brandon Archipelago, is a group of small islands located in the Indian Ocean. Situated about 430…
Nearby places worth adding to your trip
Australia
Bakers Creek is a quaint town located in Australia. Situated in the state of Queensland, it is known for its breathtaking natural beauty an…
Australia
South Mackay is a vibrant suburb located in the city of Mackay, Queensland, Australia. Situated in the sunny coastal region of the country,…
Australia
East Mackay is a picturesque coastal suburb located in Queensland, Australia. Situated on the eastern side of the city of Mackay, East Mack…
Australia
Sarina is a small town located in the Mackay Region of Queensland, Australia. The town has a population of approximately 4,000 people and i…
Australia
Ooralea: A Picturesque Residential Suburb in Australia Ooralea is a charming residential suburb located in the heart of Mackay, a coastal c…
Australia
West Mackay is a vibrant suburb located in the northern part of Mackay, Queensland, Australia. Situated just a few kilometers away from the…
Australia
North Mackay is a suburb located in the northern region of Mackay, Australia. Situated on the eastern coast, it offers residents stunning v…
Australia
Andergrove is a charming suburb located in the city of Mackay, Queensland, Australia. Situated approximately 7 kilometers west of the Macka…
