Guide to Cape Hillsborough National Park

Cape Hillsborough National Park sits along the central Queensland coast, where rainforest-covered headlands meet quiet beaches and volcanic rock formations. Famous for its wallabies and kangaroos on the beach at sunrise, Cape Hillsborough draws early risers from around the world.

For campervan travellers following the coastal route from Brisbane to Cairns, Cape Hillsborough makes a rewarding stop. It’s compact enough to explore in a day, but staying overnight gives you the chance to experience the park in quieter moments, and to catch that sunrise without the rush.

Why do people go to Cape Hillsborough National Park?

The park is best known for its kangaroos and wallabies on the beach at sunrise. Most mornings, eastern grey kangaroos and agile wallabies come down to feed on seaweed and seed pods left by the tide. This natural behaviour has made Cape Hillsborough one of the most photographed sunrise spots in Queensland.

Beyond the wildlife, visitors come for:

Hiking trails in Cape Hillsborough, including the Andrews Point Track and Beachcomber Cove Trail

Cape Hillsborough rainforest and beaches, often in the same short walk

Rich Cape Hillsborough volcanic geology, with exposed lava flows and rocky headlands

The opportunity for Cape Hillsborough birdwatching, with sea eagles, kingfishers, and rainforest species common in the area

Yuwi cultural connections, with the park sitting on traditional Yuwi Country

A peaceful coastal setting away from busier destinations

Many travellers also combine the visit with other regional stops around Mackay, Seaforth, or the Hibiscus Coast.

How long should I spend at Cape Hillsborough National Park?

A half-day visit is enough to see the sunrise and complete a short walk, but for a more relaxed pace:

1 full day allows time for sunrise viewing, a walk, and a swim or picnic

1–2 nights is ideal if you’re camping, birdwatching, or exploring the full trail network at a slower pace

Staying overnight at Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park or nearby sites also means you won’t need to drive in pre-dawn for the sunrise wildlife.

What is the best time to see kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough?

The best time to see kangaroos and wallabies on the beach is around sunrise. They usually appear 30 minutes before sunrise and stay until shortly after the sun has risen.

For the best experience:

Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot

Keep a respectful distance and follow signs — this is a wild animal interaction, not a staged event

Avoid feeding or approaching the animals

The experience is weather dependent, but occurs most days year-round.

How to get to Cape Hillsborough National Park

Cape Hillsborough is about 50 km north of Mackay, in central Queensland.

From Mackay: Take the Bruce Highway (A1) north for around 40 minutes, then turn right onto Seaforth Road. Follow signs for Cape Hillsborough Road until you reach the beach and national park entrance.

From Airlie Beach: Drive south around 150 km (2 hours) via the Bruce Highway, turning off at Seaforth Road.

The access road is sealed, and suitable for all vehicle types, including campervans.

Best time to visit Cape Hillsborough National Park

Best time of year: The best time to visit is during the dry season (April–October). Expect:

Mild temperatures

Lower humidity

Fewer insects

Better trail conditions

The summer months (November–March) bring higher heat, humidity, and the possibility of stingers in the water.

Best time of day:

Sunrise is the key attraction for wallaby and kangaroo sightings

Early morning is also ideal for walking the trails, when it’s cooler and birdlife is more active

Late afternoon can be pleasant for beach walks or photography, but expect more heat and fewer animals

Weather at Cape Hillsborough National Park

The park has a tropical climate, typical of the central Queensland coast.

Summer (Nov–Mar): 24–31°C, humid, with seasonal storms

Winter (Jun–Aug): 13–23°C, mild and dry

Dry season (Apr–Oct): Best for walking, camping, and wildlife viewing

Pack light layers for cooler mornings, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, and plenty of water if walking.

Best place to park your campervan at Cape Hillsborough National Park

The easiest place to park is near the Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park, which is adjacent to the main beach. There is day visitor parking available near the beach access, suitable for most campervans.