Tropical islands with white sandy beaches stretching off into the distance, lush rainforests teeming with species of wildlife not found anywhere else in the world, and friendly locals who are happy to show you all the good fishing spots: The Mackay and Whitsunday area really is the ultimate holiday destination.
Use The Lodge @ Awaken Retreats as a base to discover the wonders of the region—there is something to cater for every interest including tranquil lagoons and wetlands, beautiful islands, amazing fishing and vibrant communities.
Mackay is a short 30-minute drive to the south. Eat at one of the wonderful restaurants or cafes before wandering through some of its galleries, museums or heritage sites. If you head north to Airlie Beach you have easy access to the world-famous Whitsunday islands. Go for a dive on the Great Barrier Reef or simply stroll along the pristine beaches.
Attractions within easy reach of The Lodge include –
Beaches and islands
- Wildcat Charters Mackay
- Reefari Reef Fishing Charters
- Cape Hillsborough
- Seaforth Beach
- St Helens Beach
- Whitsunday Islands
- Mackay Marina precinct
- Shute Harbour
- Keswick Island
- Brampton Island
Rivers and rainforests
- Eungella National Park
- Finch Hatton Gorge
- Cathu State Forest
- Bluewater lagoon
- Bluewater Trail board walk
- Slade Point wetlands board walk
- Proserpine River
Other attractions
- Whitsunday Gold Coffee plantation tours
- Mackay Botanic Gardens
- Artspace Gallery
- Leap Sapphire Centre
- Mackay, Sarina and Airlie Beach Golf courses
- Airlie Beach Lagoon
- Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal
- Sarina Sugar Shed
For more information visit Tourism Whitsundays or Mackay Tourism.