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

📅 Wednesday, August 12, 2026
It is a pleasant and comfortable day for a visit to Illawong Beach, offering excellent conditions for those looking to enjoy the coastline. With a maximum air temperature of 23.7 °C and very calm waters, it is a lovely time for a refreshing dip as the sea temperature sits at 21.4 °C. You can expect a mix of sunshine and scattered clouds, though be mindful that the UV Index is 6.65, so remember to wear adequate sun protection during the middle of the day. A light breeze will be present, occasionally picking up, but it should not disrupt your plans. Overall, it is a great day to head to the sand and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
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Air

Low / High13°C/23.7°C
Feels Like (High)25.7°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature21.4 °C
Wave Height0.1 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:28/17:48
Sunshine Hours11.0 hrs
UV Index6.65
Cloud Cover33%
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Wind

Speed17.3 km/h
Gusts39.2 km/h
DirectionN

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