Mackay’s Best Pubs & Bars

Welcome to Mackay, the perfect blend of coast and cane country! With a population of 125,000, Mackay isn't quite your 'small country town'. By exploring the 66,484 square kilometres of diverse natural environment, you'll be treated to stunning, secluded beaches, a lush rainforest

Hinterland and plenty of other hidden treasures. At each stop are some amazing pubs or bars to grab a drink or dine in for a solid meal.

Read on if you're looking for a place to grab a beer and a good feed. This blog breaks down all the best pubs and bars in Mackay!

 
 

Positioned right in the heart of Mackay city, there aren't many other pubs that get you closer to the action. The Austral Hotel has a long-running reputation as the best Steakhouse in town, and when you sit down to dine on their famous graziers' rump or rib eye, you'll understand why.

Better yet, the Austral is just a short walk from Caneland Central Shopping Centre, one of the biggest shopping centres in central Queensland. The same distance in the other direction is Mackay's nightclub district, where you can enjoy all the city's nightlife has to offer.

Eimeo Pacific Hotel

Overlooking the stunning Eimeo Beach, this beach pub lets you enjoy a cold beer while taking in the salty winds and coastal water. This classic pub is a favourite local hang-out filled with a lot of personality. If you swing by for a beer here, make sure to take a seat on the deck to enjoy the live music and ocean views.

Pinnacle Pub

Planning a day trip out to Eungella or the famous Finch Hatton Gorge? It's tradition to end the day with an award-winning Pinnacle pie on the way back. The Pinnacle Pub is a classic, Queensland-style hotel situated a far 50km west of Mackay city. While the trip may seem long, it's absolutely worth it to explore Mackay's tropics. After a day of exploring and swimming in natural waterholes, the servings at Pinnacle are more than generous to give you the energy for the drive back.

Magpies Sporting Club

If you want to watch some of the local talent while getting a great feed, Magpies is the place to visit. Just outside the bistro's windows are several full-sized sports fields ranging from soccer to Aussie rules and rugby league. Magpies has been a dominating presence in the Mackay Sporting scene since its inception in 1984. The facility also boasts the largest Player's Lounge in the region and an award-winning Restaurant/Cafe.

Harrup Park

Make sure to check the Harrup Park event calendar because this venue has championed bringing some of the biggest events to Mackay! With a top-class cricket pitch in its backyard, Harrup Park has housed professional fixtures for the AFL, WAFL and T20 national competitions. It's also set to host the new 'Legends on the Lawn' music festival, which legend Jimmy Barnes will spearhead.

With plans to expand into a world-class facility for sports and entertainment, Harrup Park is more than just a great place to grab a drink. It's the beating heart of the Mackay sports development scene.

West Tigers Leagues Club

Out in the sugar cane-covered town of Walkerston is a country sports club with a big presence. Founded as a rugby league clubhouse, Wests Tigers Mackay has expanded massively into one of the best country pubs around. Recently renovated with a brilliant, undercover bowls green, Wests is the perfect spot for some chilled-out afternoon bowls.

Bars

MOJO Rooftop Bar

Overlooking the grand Pioneer River, MOJO Rooftop Bar lets you look over the regional city of Mackay and enjoy a more peaceful city life experience. Still, that's not to say that the bar itself is quiet. When night arrives, this place is a hotspot for local partygoers.

Moss On Wood

Painted in all white and decorated with creeping vines, Moss On Wood offers a unique, Hamptons-esk bar experience. If you prefer to dance to live music instead of DJ tracks, Moss On Wood is the place for you. Rock out with local musos who never fail to get the crowd moving.

The Dispensary

Looking to show off that new button-up? The Dispensary is one of Mackay's fancier establishments. While the city, as a whole, has a more laid-back style, this bar lets people dress up and hang out in the sleek, dimly lit and stylish interiors, making it the perfect after-party for a day at the races, or another classy event.

Breakwater Bar and Restaurant

Right beside the rocky Southern Breakwater, the Breakwater Bar and Restaurant offers a relaxed and calming dining experience. Fitted with large, east-facing windows, you'll get a great view of the Mackay Marina. Best of all, the tropical, ocean restaurant is only 5-minutes from the CBD.

Visit HMB Barbers Mackay

HMB Barbers is dedicated to giving the Mackay region the absolute best service when it comes to men’s grooming and style. If you want a barber experience that tops anything you’ve had before, swing by one of our shops. We’re located in Mt Pleasant and Rural View.