Queensland, East Coast of Australia, Australia

Illawong Beach

Illawong Beach is a long, sandy beach that stretches for kilometers, particularly noticeable at low tide when the ocean recedes for about one kilometer. The beach is known for its significant tidal swings, which can reach up to seven meters or 21 feet, a characteristic that sets it apart on a global scale. The beach is not typically crowded, as it is not a popular tourist destination.

The beach is located next to a park, providing a pleasant environment for visitors. There is also a small playground, making it a suitable location for families. The beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including tiny shoulder crabs and birds. It is also a popular spot for dogs to run with their owners.

The beach is not known for its surf, making it less suitable for regular surfing. However, it is a popular spot for kite-surfing. The nearby Pioneer River, known for its unique blue water in contrast to the typical muddy and brown rivers, adds to the natural beauty of the area.

Explore places to stay near Illawong Beach and enjoy the unique tidal swings and serene environment perfect for kite-surfing and family outings.

While the beach has been described as somewhat plain, efforts have been made to enhance its aesthetic appeal through cleaning, pruning, fence-making, and shrub planting.

What to do at Illawong Beach?

Restaurants

One of the best restaurants near Illawong Beach is Oceans Bar & Restaurant.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the beach's vastness and the opportunity for long walks, with the added charm of local wildlife. The adjacent park and the unique blue water Pioneer River nearby also add to the appeal. However, some visitors find the beach rather plain and lacking in activities, particularly for surfing enthusiasts.

Where to Stay near Illawong Beach?

Visitors to Illawong Beach often stay in Mackay, a nearby city that offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and motels. Many travelers include Illawong Beach in their itinerary while exploring the natural beauty and attractions of the Mackay region.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Illawong Beach?

Latitude: -21.1742475 / Longitude: 149.1949368

Illawong Beach is located in Queensland. The following map of Illawong Beach shows the exact location.

Illawong Beach: Weather Today

📅 Sunday, July 26, 2026
Today is a disappointing day for a visit to Illawong Beach, and it is best to plan your activities elsewhere. Persistent light drizzle makes the sand damp and unpleasant for lounging, while the air feels cool with a maximum temperature of 20.6 °C. The sea is quite chilly at 20.3 °C and is not suitable for swimming. While the sky remains mostly clear, the combination of brisk, strong winds and the lingering moisture creates an uncomfortable environment. If you do head to the coast, expect choppy water conditions and a lack of traditional beach weather. Please remain cautious of the sun, as the UV Index reaches 6.05, meaning you can still burn even on a gray, drizzly day.
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Air

Low / High14.9°C/20.6°C
Feels Like (High)20°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature20.3 °C
Wave Height0.6 m
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Rain

Rain Chance6%
Rainfall0.4 mm
Rain Duration3 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:37/17:42
Sunshine Hours10.6 hrs
UV Index6.05
Cloud Cover16%
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Wind

Speed18.9 km/h
Gusts44.3 km/h
DirectionSE

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