Cape Hillsborough by Campervan: Wallabies on the Beach at Sunrise

Quick summary: Cape Hillsborough is where wallabies and kangaroos come down to the beach at dawn, and it’s one of the most memorable stops on a Queensland campervan trip. The national park sits around 45 km north of Mackay and around two hours’ drive from Airlie Beach. The trick is to stay nearby the night before, so you can walk to the sand at first light. With a campervan or motorhome, that’s exactly what you can do.

At a glance
Location	Around 45 km north of Mackay
From Airlie Beach	Around 130 km, about 2 hours
Highlight	Wallabies and kangaroos on the beach around sunrise
Walks	Rainforest, headland and beach tracks
Stay	Close by, so you can be on the beach at dawn
Tours	Day tours in the region

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Why are there wallabies on the beach?

Agile wallabies and eastern grey kangaroos live in the forest behind the beach and come down to the sand around dawn to forage on seeds, mangrove pods and seaweed washed ashore. Watching them against a sunrise over the Coral Sea is unforgettable. Sightings are common but never guaranteed, and the animals usually move back into the bush as the morning warms.

How should you watch the wildlife?

Quietly, and from a respectful distance. Rangers sometimes manage the beach at sunrise, so follow their instructions. Don’t feed or touch the animals, keep dogs away, and avoid flash photography.

Where can you stay overnight?

There’s a holiday park close to the beach and a small national park camping area nearby, both of which let you walk to the sunrise. Book ahead, especially in school holidays. If you have a certified self-contained vehicle, check for designated areas, but staying close to the beach is the point.

Can you visit Cape Hillsborough as a day trip in an RV?

You can, but you’ll likely miss the sunrise. Driving there in the dark means the dusk-and-dawn wildlife hazards on the road, so it’s far better to arrive the afternoon before, settle in, and wake up a short walk from the beach.

What walks are there?

Walk	What to expect
Diversity boardwalk	Mangroves and coastal forest, with signs on plants and wildlife
Andrews Point	A headland track with views along the coast
Hidden Valley	A rainforest walk behind the beach
Wedge Island	Reached across the sand at low tide; check the tide carefully

How does Cape Hillsborough fit into a trip?

As an overnight stop between Airlie Beach and Mackay, or on the way to Eungella. See Mackay, Eungella and the week itinerary.

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Frequently Asked Questions