Beaches and camping

Patrolled beaches

There are four patrolled beaches in the Mackay region by Surf Lifesaving Queensland:

• Eimeo Beach
• Harbour Beach
• Lamberts Beach
• Sarina Beach

There is also a roving lifeguard service travelling between the beaches.

Beaches are patrolled on weekends, school holidays and public holidays from the September school holidays until the May Day public holiday each year.

Local surf clubs also assist with patrols of Harbour, Eimeo and Sarina beaches on Saturday afternoons, Sundays, and public holidays.

For more information on patrol times and beach conditions, please download the SLSA Beachsafe app or visit www.beachsafe.org.au or SLSQ’s Instagram page @mkylifeguards.

Swim safe

When swimming at the region's beaches, remember to swim safe! Swim between the red and yellow flags, wear a stinger suit, carry a bottle of vinegar in the car and apply sunscreen regularly.

For the treatment of a jellyfish sting:

• Call 000 and prepare for CPR
• Remove tentacles, if present (Do not use hands)
• Douse area with vinegar for a minimum of 30 seconds
• Do not rub

For more details on how to swim safely at the beach visit lifesaving.com.au.

Camping

The Mackay region is the perfect place to escape on your next camping trip. With beautiful waterfalls, kilometres of pristine beaches and freshwater dams teeming with barramundi, the region is popular for fishing, outdoor adventures and relaxing with family and friends.

Mackay Regional Council operates camping reserves at Seaforth, Ball Bay and St Helens Beach, located in some of the region’s most picturesque settings.

Note - Bookings are not required for St Helens Beach and Ball Bay reserves, and powered sites are not available at Seaforth, Ball Bay or St Helens Beach.

View council’s camping guidelines brochure for more information.

Campground survey

Ball Bay Camping Ground Park

A lovely beach-side park with picnic tables, barbecue, shelter and tree coverage.

Mirani Caravan Park

The Mirani Caravan Park is located in the heart of the Pioneer Valley, where the cane fields meet the rainforest, and the mountain ranges meet the clouds.

Seaforth Camping Reserve

A large shady beachside parkland for campers and caravans.

St Helens Camping Reserve

Located nearby pristine St Helens Beach.

Camping in state and national parks

The Mackay region’s state and national parks feature a variety of camping options set within protected natural areas. Whether travelling with a tent or caravan, campers can enjoy peaceful surrounds and easy access to outdoor recreation.

Camping bookings and permits are required for all camping in Queensland state and national parks. These must be obtained in advance through the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

Dump point locations

Travellers wishing to dispose of waste matter at waste points from their motor homes, caravans or recreational vehicles (RVs) can do at the following locations:

Waste points provide a safe and convenient way for travellers, especially those in self contained recreational vehicles to dispose of black-water waste.