Are there crocodiles in Mackay, Queensland?

Mackay, Queensland, is indisputably inside crocodile country. However, any crocodiles over two metres in length are targeted for capture and removal.

Mackay is one of the biggest cities on the Queensland coast. It is a good stop on the Brisbane to Cairns driving route, and offers excellent snorkelling cruises to the likes of Brampton Island.

The best thing to do in Mackay is a snorkelling cruise around the South Cumberland Islands.

However, before considering a swim at Mackay, you need to know about what might be in the water with you.

Is Mackay in crocodile country?

Mackay is in Croc Country, which the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment and Science defines as north of the Boyne River in Gladstone. This means it is within the boundaries of the region where saltwater crocodiles live.

The crocodiles tend to be more prevalent further north, but there have been several crocodile sightings at Mackay over the last couple of decades. Indeed, one croc was killed in February 2023 after displaying dangerous behaviour towards swimmers and fishers.

Three great Mackay experiences to book in advance

(Highly recommended ✅) Whitsunday Islands boat cruise – with snorkelling and paddleboarding.
Cape Hillsborough sunrise tour – meet wallabies on the beach.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Finch Hatton Gorge waterfalls tour.

Will I see crocodiles at Mackay?

While there might be crocodiles at Mackay, it is unlikely that most visitors will encounter one. This is partly because crocodiles don’t tend to live on beaches. They prefer the murky, still water of creeks and lakes to the moving, clear water of the ocean. This is partly because it is easier to capture prey by stealth when they can’t be seen.

Also, if locals see a crocodile at Mackay, they report the sighting pretty quickly. Lives and livelihoods depend on crocodiles being removed from the area.

Are crocodiles removed from Mackay?

The Queensland Crocodile Management Plan divides areas up into six zones. Mackay and the majority of the coastline are in the targeted management zone.

This means that any crocodiles more than two metres in length, or seen behaving dangerously, are immediately targeted for removal.

Best Mackay accommodation options

The top places to stay in Mackay are:

For attractive apartments by Blacks Beach: The Shores Holiday Apartments.
For a cheap, but surprisingly good, motel: Cool Palms Motel.
For apartments with kitchenettes by the marina: Mantra Mackay.
For a holiday park with lot of family-friendly facilities: Big4 Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park.
For fully furnished apartments in prime position next to Bluewater Lagoon: Riviera Mackay.

Is it safe to swim at Mackay?

Aside from crocodiles, the main dangers in the water at Mackay are marine stingers. These are far more prevalent from November to May. Wear a stinger suit if entering the water at the likes of Blacks Beach then.

For safer swimming, however, aim for the man-made Bluewater Lagoon.