Cape Hillsborough National Park
National Park · National Park in Queensland
Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Cape Hillsborough National Park
Cape Hillsborough National Park is a scenic coastal park north of Mackay, famous for the remarkable spectacle of wallabies and kangaroos gathering on the beach at sunrise to feed, making for extraordinary photography opportunities. The park encompasses rugged volcanic headlands, rainforest-fringed beaches, and offshore islands visible from the beach. The Andrews Point and Beachcomber Cove areas feature easy walking tracks through varied vegetation with abundant wildlife.
About
Cape Hillsborough National Park is a scenic coastal park north of Mackay, famous for the remarkable spectacle of wallabies and kangaroos gathering on the beach at sunrise to feed, making for extraordinary photography opportunities. The park encompasses rugged volcanic headlands, rainforest-fringed beaches, and offshore islands visible from the beach. The Andrews Point and Beachcomber Cove areas feature easy walking tracks through varied vegetation with abundant wildlife.
History & Significance
Cape Hillsborough National Park protects a significant coastal landscape featuring volcanic headlands formed millions of years ago. The park is notable for its unique wildlife behaviour, particularly the early morning gathering of kangaroos and wallabies on the beach—a natural spectacle that has made it a popular destination for wildlife photography and observation.
Sources & References
Warnings
Getting There
Drive 50 km north of Mackay on the Cape Hillsborough Road. Mackay is accessible by air, rail, and road (970 km north of Brisbane on the Bruce Highway).
Parking
Free parking available at main beach area. Capacity adequate for day visitors, but can fill during peak season mornings when wildlife viewing is best. Accessible parking near beach access points. Overflow parking available in nearby areas.
Visitor Tips
- •Arrive at the beach before dawn for the best wildlife encounter — kangaroos and wallabies congregate on the sand as the sun rises. The Beachcomber Cove walk at low tide reveals a natural causeway to rocky formations. Stay overnight at the Cape Hillsborough caravan park for the best sunrise access.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
Identity
- Also Known As
- []
The Place
- Significance
- State
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- Half day to full day
- Best Time
- Year-round (beach wildlife best at sunrise)
- Hours
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Location
- Region
- Mackay Whitsunday
- State
- Queensland
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages—easy beach walks and wildlife viewing suitable for families with young children, though some tracks are uneven
- Shade/Cover
- Moderate shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
No food outlets in park; bring supplies or picnic supplies
Features
Facilities
Nearby
Related Attractions
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