Grasstree Beach, Sarina: Location, crocodiles & best time to swim

Marine stingers make swimming at Grasstree Beach near Sarina in Queensland hazardous. But things to do in Grasstree Beach include fishing at the reefs and in Cabbage Tree Creek.

Where is Grasstree Beach?

Grasstree Beach is one of the most attractive beaches in the Mackay region of Queensland. It’s around a 15 minute drive from Sarina, and an easy detour on the Rockhampton to Mackay leg of the drive from Brisbane to Cairns.

Grasstree Beach is on Selma Bay, and much of the visual appeal comes from Cabbage Tree Creek. This small creek winds its way around the back of the settlement, into the Coral Sea. This effectively makes Grasstree Beach a peninsula.

Things to do in Grasstree Beach, Queensland: Swimming

The shelter of Zelma Bay makes the water at Grasstree Beach pretty calm. Ordinarily, this would be ideal for swimming, but this is tropical Queensland we’re talking about here. During the wet season, lots of potentially deadly marine stingers make their way to this part of the coast. In the dry season between May and October, they are far less prevalent.

The best time to swim at Grasstree Beach is between May and October.

Crocodiles at Grasstree Beach

There’s also the not insignificant issue of crocodiles. The big crocs don’t generally hang out around Grasstree Beach, but some have been known to saunter their way there in the past.

Grasstree Beach is not patrolled by lifeguards, either, so the people who might spot a croc at neighbouring Sarina Beach are not on duty here. Essentially, swim at your own risk, and pay heed to warnings.

Grasstree Beach facilities and accommodation

Even if not swimming, Grasstree Beach is a lovely spot to hang out. There’s a large grassy park area at the back, with public toilets, a children’s playground and picnic tables. There’s also a convenience store about 100 metres away.

Grasstree Beach near Sarina, Queensland. Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland/ Brooke Miles.

There are several holiday homes in Grasstree Beach, and holiday home rental is your best bet for accommodation here.

It’s also a good spot for fishing. There’s a boat ramp at either side of Cabbage Tree Creek. The nearby reefs and islands make for bountiful fishing, but you can also cast a line straight off the beach near the creek mouth.

Top Sarina experiences worth booking in advance

Learn how sugar is grown and processed on a sugar mill tour – with sweet treat tastings.
Find out how rum is made on a rum distillery tour – with rum sampling.