In terms of precipitation, rainfall in Mackay ranges from 0.4 - 12.2 inches per month. February is typically the wettest month, when rainfall can reach 12.2 in. September is typically the driest time to visit Mackay when rainfall is around 0.4 in.
If weather is an important factor for your trip to Mackay, use this chart to help with planning. For those seeking warmer temperatures, January is the ideal time of year to visit, when temperatures reach an average of 78.8 F. Travelers looking to avoid the cold should look outside of July, when temperatures are typically at their lowest (around 60.8 F).
Mackay has a tropical climate. The summers (December to February) are hot and wet with temperatures reaching 86 F. The breeze blowing in from the sea keeps the summer months comfortable. The winters (June to August) are warm and sunny, and temperatures hover between 70 and 80 F. Most of the rain falls between December and March while August and September are the driest months. The hurricane season runs from December to April and thunderstorms are a possibility between late spring (November) and early autumn (March).
Peak Season:
December to the end of January and the Easter school vacations are high season times in Mackay. Another peak time is in June for the River Sessions Festival and July for the Mackay Region Festival of Arts. The whale-watching season runs from July to September and crushing season is also around the same time (July to November).
Off Season:
The low season in Mackay follows Easter (March or April) and runs until mid-September.
Shoulder Season:
Mid-January to Easter is shoulder season in Mackay.
There are several car-rental companies at the airport along with taxis and shuttles services.
Renting a car is a must if you’re hoping to explore the Mackay region. There are some bus services, operated by Mackay Transit. The CBD is the best-covered area. Buses run from north to south Mackay and east to Mirani. Taxis are available.
• There are landmark fishing spots around Mackay and charter and reef fishing expeditions available.
• Farleigh Sugar Mill is a working mill just 10 minutes north of Mackay. The mill offers tours to show visitors how they turn cane into sugar and molasses.