Sarina Beach

Just south of Mackay, Sarina Beach is a serene slice of Queensland's coastline that feels a world away from the region's busier resort towns. This long, sandy stretch is fringed by casuarina trees and offers calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming. The laidback vibe, excellent fishing, and proximity to the Sarina Sugar Shed make it a rewarding stop for travellers exploring the Whitsundays' lesser-known corners.

Highlights & What to See

• Sarina Beach itself – a protected, patrolled swimming beach with picnic shelters and a playground, ideal for a family day out.
• Sarina Sugar Shed – Australia's only sugar museum and working mini-mill, where you can sample raw sugar and learn about the region's sugar-cane history.
• Plane Creek Wetlands – a birdwatcher's paradise with walking trails and bird hides; look for brolgas, jabirus and migratory waders.
• Fishing and crabbing – cast a line off the rocks at the northern end or try your luck for mud crabs in the nearby creeks.
• Sarina Golf Course – a challenging 18-hole course with ocean views and resident kangaroos.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find a half-day sufficient to enjoy the beach and visit the Sugar Shed. If you're a keen angler or birdwatcher, plan for a full day – pack a picnic and explore the wetlands in the morning, fish in the afternoon, and watch the sunset over the water. For a relaxed overnight stop, there are a handful of holiday parks and motels along the Esplanade.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mackay – 30 minutes north, the regional hub offers the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and the Bluewater Trail.
• Eungella National Park – a 90-minute drive inland, famous for its wild platypuses at Broken River and lush rainforest walks.
• Finch Hatton Gorge – on the way to Eungella, this spot features swimming holes and the spectacular Araluen Cascades.
• Brampton Island – a day-trip by ferry from Mackay Harbour, with white-sand beaches and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.
• Clairview Beach – a quiet, unspoiled beach 20 minutes south, popular for camping and four-wheel driving.

Please check official sources for current details.