Cheap Flights to Mackay
Mackay Airport (MKY)
Servicing the city of Mackay on Queensland’s northern coast, Mackay Airport (MKY) is one of the region’s major transport facilities, operating flights to and from the state’s capital of Queensland, and to Sydney in New South Wales, among others. Passengers will have access to lots of amenities in this airport, including a recharging station, ATMs, showers, currency exchange, a couple of cafes, a newsagents, a bar, and a travel accessories shop. There is also WiFi access available for free if you purchase up to $12 of goods within the airport.
There are bus transfers, car rental options, or taxicabs available for transport to and from the airport. A taxi fare from the airport into downtown should come to around $20-25.
Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar all operate flights to and from Mackay Airport.
Why visit Mackay?
Mackay isn’t generally on considered a hotspot to visit, but it should be. This lovely coastal town on the northeastern coast of Australia is one of Queensland’s most popular towns to live in, not least because of its extraordinary shoreline, its mangrove forests, and its delightful downtown, which is filled with restaurants, bars and cafes.
Things to do in Mackay
There’s lots to do in Mackay, both in and out of the central town. Within the town you can stroll past the art deco architecture, enjoy some excellent nosh in the quaint cafes, or enjoy a little shopping in this laid-back beach town. In the evenings, head to the Mackay Marina, where there are lots of cocktail bars and plenty of swanky restaurants to while away the small hours.
Outside of Mackay, visitors can explore the fabulous Eungella National Park, a stretch of land that incorporates one of Australia’s most prominent rainforests. Or head to the Finch Hatton Gorge, and pack a basket of food and spend the day picnicking by the shore, and swimming in the fresh waters.
For beach babies, there are 31 gorgeous beaches within easy reach of Mackay, and offer that pristine sand and cobalt blue waters this part of the coast is famous for. Fish, surf, snorkel, dive, and sunbathe along these stretches for a true Australian experience.
However, if you are keen on exploring Australia’s most astounding natural wonder—the Great Barrier Reef—there are wonderful sections that can be accessed from Mackay. Set sail to the islands of Brampton, or the Newry and Cumberland Island groups to see this fantastic underwater landscape up close.
Best time to visit Mackay
· Mackay has two main seasons, the wet and the dry. The wet season runs over the summer, from November to April, when the temperature is high and the humidity is often at 75%. Expect daily averages of around 31°C, and regular downpours.
· In winter (May-October), the weather is much cooler and drier and usually this is the best time to visit Mackay when the days are usually 26-28°C and the evenings drop to a pleasant 16-17°C.
Arriving in Mackay by plane
· Direct flights to Mackay operate from Brisbane (BNE), Rockhampton (ROK), Townsville (TSV), and Sydney (SYD).
Currency
· Australian Dollar (AUD).
Please note that information is correct as of June 2016
