Sarina, a quaint coastal town in Queensland, Australia, lies approximately 35 km south of Mackay and offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Nestled between stunning beaches and lush hinterland, this charming destination beckons travelers seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Join us as we unveil the hidden gems and reveal the top things to do in Sarina, QLD, a captivating haven that promises unforgettable experiences. Immerse yourself in the area’s rich heritage, explore its diverse landscapes, and embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting world of Sarina.
Things To Do In Sarina, QLD
1. Sarina Sugar Shed – A Sweet Adventure
Embark on a delightful journey at the Sarina Sugar Shed, Australia’s only fully operational miniature sugar-processing mill and distillery. This unique attraction offers an educational and interactive tour, showcasing the process of transforming sugarcane into a variety of delicious products. From decadent ice-creams, sauces, relishes, and chutneys to craft distilled liqueurs and their famous Sugar Shed rum, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
The knowledgeable guides at the Sarina Sugar Shed will walk you through each step of the sugar-making process, providing fascinating insights into the history and significance of the sugar industry in the region. After the tour, indulge in a tasting session where you can sample the Shed’s diverse range of products. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop to share the sweetness with friends and family back home.
- Best time of the year: Year-round, as it is an indoor attraction
- Address: Railway Square, Sarina, QLD 4737
- Opening Hours: Open daily 9 am to 4 pm, except for public holidays
- Distance from town: Located within the town of Sarina
2. Sarina Beach – A Coastal Paradise
Discover the pristine beauty of Sarina Beach, a picturesque stretch of coastline perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. With its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, this idyllic beach offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soak up the sun, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the inviting waters.
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
During the turtle nesting season, which usually runs from November to January, you may even have the chance to witness the magical spectacle of turtles hatching and making their way to the sea. This unforgettable experience is a testament to the area’s commitment to conservation and the protection of its diverse marine life.
- Address: Sarina Beach Road, Sarina, QLD 4737
- Best time of the year: September to November for warm weather and turtle nesting season
- Distance from town: Approximately 10 km (15 minutes drive)
3. Cape Palmerston National Park – A Coastal Haven
Discover the rugged beauty of Cape Palmerston National Park, a coastal haven located southeast of Sarina. The park features a diverse range of landscapes, from sandy beaches and rocky headlands to mangroves and open eucalypt forests. This unspoiled paradise offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and fishing.
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland/Brooke Miles
The park is home to several walking trails that allow you to explore its many natural wonders. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife, as well as other native wildlife such as wallabies and echidnas. With its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, Cape Palmerston National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Address: Cape Palmerston Road, Ilbilbie, QLD 4738
- Best time of the year: April to October, when the weather is cooler and drier
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 60 km (1 hour drive)
4. Eungella National Park – A Biodiversity Hotspot
Venture west of Mackay to explore Eungella National Park, one of Queensland’s most ecologically diverse parks. Home to a wide array of flora and fauna, the park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Australia’s natural landscapes. With its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning vistas, Eungella National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The park features a network of walking trails that cater to all fitness levels, allowing you to explore its many wonders at your own pace. Keep an eye out for the elusive platypus, which can often be spotted in the park’s freshwater creeks and rivers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Eungella National Park is a must-visit destination during your stay in Sarina.
- Address: Eungella Dam Road, Eungella, QLD 4757
- Best time of the year: April to October, when the weather is cooler and drier
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 126 km (2 hours drive)
5. Bluewater Lagoon – A Family-Friendly Oasis
Make a splash at the Bluewater Lagoon, a family-friendly water park located in nearby Mackay. With three age-appropriate lagoons, an interactive children’s water playground, and a thrilling drop-bucket, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The park also features a café where you can grab a bite to eat or relax with a refreshing drink while the kids have fun in the water.
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the Bluewater Lagoon offers a picturesque setting for a day of fun in the sun. Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day or simply seeking a fun-filled outing with the family, this water park is the perfect destination.
- Address: River Street, Mackay, QLD 4740
- Opening Hours: Open daily 9 am to 4:45 pm, except for public holidays
- Best time of the year: September to April, when the weather is warm
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 36 km (35 minutes drive)
6. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens – A Flourishing Sanctuary
Discover the diverse flora of the Central Queensland Coast at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. With over 3 km of walking and cycling trails, wetland boardwalks, and wildlife spotting opportunities, the gardens offer a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. Wander through the various themed gardens, each showcasing a unique aspect of the region’s plant life, from coastal dunes to tropical rainforests.
The gardens also feature a café where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere, the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is the perfect destination for a leisurely day out.
- Address: 9 Lagoon Street, West Mackay, QLD 4740
- Opening Hours: Open daily 5 am to 8:30 pm
- Best time of the year: Year-round, as it is an outdoor attraction
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 35 km (30 minutes drive)
7. Palm Valley Nature Refuge – A Hidden Gem
Escape to the serene Palm Valley Nature Refuge, a hidden gem located just a short drive from Sarina. This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, with its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails, keeping an eye out for native birds and other animals that call the refuge home.
The Palm Valley Nature Refuge is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its beautiful scenery and calming atmosphere, this nature refuge is a must-visit spot during your stay in Sarina.
- Address: Palm Valley Road, Sarina, QLD 4737
- Best time of the year: Year-round, as it is an outdoor attraction
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 10 km (15 minutes drive)
8. Motorcycle Beach Races at Grasstree Beach – High-Octane Fun
For a thrilling experience, head to Grasstree Beach for the Motorcycle Beach Races. This exciting event sees riders from all over the region competing in high-speed races along the picturesque shoreline. With its stunning backdrop and adrenaline-pumping action, the Motorcycle Beach Races are a must-see for motorsports enthusiasts and casual spectators alike.
Check the event’s Facebook page for dates and additional information, as the races are held periodically throughout the year. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness high-octane fun on the sands of Grasstree Beach.
- Address: Grasstree Beach, QLD 4737
- Best time of the year: Check their Facebook page for event dates
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 20 km (20 minutes drive)
9. Mackay Aqua Park – A Water Wonderland
Unleash your inner child at the Mackay Aqua Park, a fun-filled water playground located just a short drive from Sarina. Featuring a variety of inflatable obstacles, slides, and jumps, this aquatic adventure park offers hours of entertainment for visitors of all ages. Challenge yourself on the park’s exhilarating courses, or simply enjoy splashing around in the refreshing water.
The Mackay Aqua Park is open daily during the summer season, making it the perfect destination for a day of fun in the sun. With its exciting attractions and beautiful surroundings, this water park is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
- Address: 1 Michigan Way, Andergrove, QLD 4740
- Opening Hours: Open daily during the summer season, check their website for specific hours
- Best time of the year: September to April, when the weather is warm
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 38 km (35 minutes drive)
10. Hay Point Lookout – A Scenic Vantage Point
Take in the breathtaking views of the Coral Sea and the surrounding coastline at Hay Point Lookout. This scenic vantage point offers panoramic vistas of the region, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The lookout is also a great place to watch ships coming in and out of the nearby Hay Point Coal Terminal, one of the largest coal export facilities in the world.
Located just a short drive from Sarina, the Hay Point Lookout is a must-visit destination for those seeking stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this picturesque spot.
- Address: Hay Point Road, Hay Point, QLD 4740
- Best time of the year: Year-round, as it is an outdoor attraction
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 22 km (20 minutes drive)
11. Lake Barfield – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Visit Lake Barfield, a bird sanctuary located near Sarina, where you can spot a variety of bird species, including egrets, black swans, and white herons. This peaceful lake offers a tranquil setting for birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.
Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the diverse birdlife that calls Lake Barfield home. With its serene atmosphere and abundant wildlife, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
- Address: Lake Barfield, QLD 4737
- Best time of the year: Year-round, as it is an outdoor attraction
- Distance from Sarina: Approximately 10 km (15 minutes drive)
Towns Nearby Sarina, QLD
Here are some nearby towns/suburbs around Sarina, QLD, Australia, along with their highlights, attractions, distance from Sarina, and reasons why they are worth visiting:
- Hay Point, QLD (11.66 km from Sarina): Known for its Hay Point Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the Coral Sea and the surrounding coastline. It’s also a great spot to watch ships coming in and out of the nearby Hay Point Coal Terminal, one of the largest coal export facilities in the world.
- Koumala, QLD (12.85 km from Sarina): A small rural town surrounded by sugar cane fields and cattle farms. It’s a great destination for those looking to experience the authentic rural lifestyle of Queensland.
- Walkerston, QLD (20.8 km from Sarina): A charming town with a rich history, Walkerston offers a range of attractions, including the Greenmount Homestead, a heritage-listed property that provides a glimpse into the region’s past.
- Mackay, QLD (36 km from Sarina): A bustling regional city with a variety of attractions, such as the Bluewater Lagoon, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, and a vibrant dining and shopping scene. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.
- Shoal Point, QLD (53 km from Sarina): A coastal suburb known for its beautiful beaches and recreational activities, such as fishing, swimming, and boating. It’s a great destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Slade Point, QLD (45 km from Sarina): Another coastal suburb with stunning beaches and parks, Slade Point is an ideal destination for those looking to relax and unwind by the sea.
- Erakala, QLD (45 km from Sarina): A residential suburb located near Mackay, Erakala offers a peaceful atmosphere and easy access to the city’s amenities.
These towns and suburbs offer a variety of attractions and experiences, making them worth visiting during your stay in Sarina, QLD, Australia.
Getting To Sarina, QLD
To get to Sarina, QLD from common destinations or origins as a local tourist, you have several options for both public transport and driving.
From Brisbane:
- By train: Take the Tilt Train from Brisbane’s Roma Street Station to Proserpine Station. The journey takes approximately 10 hours. From Proserpine, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Sarina, which is about a 2-hour drive.
- By car: Drive north on the Bruce Highway (A1) from Brisbane. The drive takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
From Mackay:
- By bus: Greyhound Australia operates bus services between Mackay and Sarina. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check the Greyhound Australia website for schedules and ticketing information.
- By car: Drive south on the Bruce Highway (A1) from Mackay. The drive takes approximately 35 minutes, depending on traffic.
From Airlie Beach:
- By bus: Greyhound Australia operates bus services between Airlie Beach and Sarina. The journey takes approximately 3 hours. Check the Greyhound Australia website for schedules and ticketing information.
- By car: Drive south on the Bruce Highway (A1) from Airlie Beach. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
For public transport options from other nearby towns, use the Queensland Government’s TransLink website (https://www.translink.com.au) or app to plan your journey, as it provides detailed information on train and bus routes, schedules, and ticketing.
