Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
200 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 600 m
Frequently asked questions
Far Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity murky, average temperature +23.0°C, warms up to +27.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Far Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — glassy. Average wave height — 0.1 m.
Far Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 200 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Far Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 2 600 metres.
Far Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Far Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. There are no rip currents — swimming is safe. Jellyfish risk — high. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Far Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: crocodiles, box jellyfish, Irukandji, bluebottles. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Far Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Far Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Far Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Quota Park Kiosk, Mackay City Bowls Club, The Dispensary. Cuisines available: Modern Australian, Seafood, Cafe. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Far Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Flip-flops, Headwear, Insect repellent, Cash, Water shoes.
Far Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is at low tide, when extensive flats are exposed. Mornings are cooler and there are fewer mosquitoes. Avoid swimming during jellyfish season.
Far Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is not recommended due to crocodiles and jellyfish. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Campfires are prohibited.
Far Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for lovers of quiet walks on extensive sand flats, birdwatching and picnics in the park. Not suitable for swimming due to crocodiles and jellyfish, or for surfers — there are no waves.
Far Beach: what makes this beach unique?
At low tide, extensive sand flats stretch for kilometres, making the beach ideal for long walks on the former seabed. It is one of the closest spots to Mackay city centre for quiet nature recreation.
Far Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Extensive sand flats at low tide — kilometres for walking, Soft white sand, Quiet and peaceful spot, Quota Park with BBQs, playground and fitness equipment, Just 5 minutes from Mackay city centre, Free parking, Popular dog-walking spot. Cons: No lifeguards or patrolling, Danger of crocodiles and jellyfish (Irukandji, box jellyfish), Very shallow water, not suitable for surfing, Water can be murky after rain, Mosquitoes and sandflies in the evening, The beach is popular for walks, not swimming, Limited infrastructure on the beach itself.
Far Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Quota Park, Mackay Botanic Gardens, Mackay Harbour, Pioneer River. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Far Beach: how do I get to the city of Mackay?
The beach is located near the city of Mackay. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Mackay.