Is Mackay a good place to visit?

Yes, it offers great access to beaches and national parks.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 10 hours of driving time.

Yes, the Spirit of Queensland stops in Mackay.

Yes, it is a major highway with good maintenance.

What is the best time to visit?

Winter months are ideal for outdoor activities.

Craiglie

Mackay

Flight Driving

Craiglie to Mackay

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from Craiglie to Mackay covers 850 kilometers along the Bruce Highway. Driving takes approximately 10 hours, passing through coastal towns like Cardwell and Townsville. Alternatively, you can fly from Cairns Airport to Mackay Airport, which is much faster but requires a transfer. Mackay is a major industrial and tourism hub, known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. The route is well-serviced by fuel stations and rest areas.

Total Distance: 850 km driving distance; 720 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, taking about 3 hours total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is significantly cheaper than flying for this route.

Compare Craiglie to Mackay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours	10 hours
Avg Price	300-600 AUD	150-250 AUD fuel
Operator	Qantas/Jetstar	Personal Vehicle
Route	Cairns (CNS) to Mackay (MKY) via Brisbane.	Bruce Highway (A1) south.
Tip	Flights are connecting; check layover times in Brisbane.	The stretch between Ingham and Townsville is scenic but watch for speed traps.

Travel Tips

Townsville Stop
Townsville is the perfect halfway point for a lunch break.
Fuel
Fuel is cheaper in larger centers like Townsville compared to smaller towns.
Road Safety
Be alert for heavy mining traffic near Mackay.
Booking
Book flights early to avoid high last-minute prices.
Navigation
Use GPS to navigate through Townsville city traffic.