Where to see Kangaroos in Australia?
🌐 Website: Visit Cape Hillsborough
📍 Location: Cape Hillsborough National Park, Queensland, Australia
⏰ Opening Hours: Sunrise (arrive 30 minutes before dawn)
⏳ Duration: 1–2 hours
🧒 Family Friendly
Where to See Kangaroos in Australia: A Sunrise Encounter at Cape Hillsborough
Experience the magic of sunrise at Cape Hillsborough, where kangaroos and wallabies hop along the shoreline as the first light hits the sand. This breathtaking scene, unique to this part of Queensland, is a must-see for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.
Wondering where to see kangaroos in Australia? Imagine watching wild kangaroos hopping along a beach at sunrise — it’s real, and it happens every morning at Cape Hillsborough in Queensland. In this guide, you’ll discover why this magical experience is a must-do, when to go, and how to make the most of your kangaroo encounter.
Why Cape Hillsborough Is one of the Best Places to See Kangaroos in Australia
Cape Hillsborough National Park is renowned for its unique early-morning visitors—Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Agile Wallabies. Each dawn, these marsupials venture from the bush to the beach to forage for seaweed and other treats washed ashore.
Not only does this create a breathtaking scene for travellers and wildlife photographers alike, but it’s also become one of the most iconic answers to the question, “Where can I see kangaroos in Australia?“
The Cape Hillsborough Sunrise Experience
The experience begins well before the sun peeks over the Coral Sea. Visitors gather on the sand in hushed anticipation. As the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, the silhouettes of kangaroos begin to appear—a photographer’s dream.
You can take part in the Sunrise with the Wallabies experience, guided by park rangers, who ensure a respectful and safe distance is maintained. This sustainable wildlife encounter highlights the importance of ethical observation and offers educational insights into kangaroo behaviour and conservation.
Tips for Seeing Kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough
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Arrive Early: The best time to see kangaroos is right before and during sunrise.
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Keep Your Distance: Use a zoom lens for photography. Do not approach or feed the animals.
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Stay Overnight: Book a night at the Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park for easy beach access.
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Visit Outside School Holidays: You’ll enjoy a quieter and more peaceful encounter.
Other Places to See Kangaroos in Australia
While Cape Hillsborough is one of the most memorable, here are a few other top locations to spot kangaroos:
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Pebbly Beach, NSW – Kangaroos on the sand and in the surf.
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Lucky Bay, WA – White-sand beach with beach-loving kangaroos.
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Grampians National Park, VIC – Excellent for kangaroos and scenic hikes.
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Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT – Just outside Canberra, with a high chance of sightings.
Still, few places offer such an iconic and photogenic experience as Cape Hillsborough at sunrise.
Visitor Tips & FAQs for Cape Hillsborough
🧭 Planning Your Visit
What is the address of Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park and how do I get there?
Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park is located at 51 Risley Parade, Cape Hillsborough, Queensland 4740. It’s approximately a 45-minute drive north of Mackay. The roads are sealed but can be winding, so allow extra travel time.
What are the opening hours of Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park?
The park is open year-round. Check-in and check-out times may vary; it’s best to contact the park directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.
How much time should I plan to spend at Cape Hillsborough?
A stay of at least one night is recommended to fully experience the sunrise with the kangaroos and explore the surrounding national park.
When is the best time of year to visit Cape Hillsborough?
The kangaroos visit the beach year-round, but the dry season (May to October) offers more comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
🚗 Getting There & Accessibility
Is there parking available at Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park?
Yes, the park offers parking for guests, including spaces suitable for larger vehicles like campervans.
Is Cape Hillsborough accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Some areas of the park and beach may be challenging for wheelchairs and strollers due to sandy or uneven terrain. It’s advisable to contact the park for specific accessibility information.
Are bathroom facilities available at Cape Hillsborough?
Yes, the park provides amenities blocks with toilets and showers for guests.
🧳 What to Bring & Know
What should I bring when visiting Cape Hillsborough?
- Camera with a zoom lens for wildlife photography
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Binoculars for birdwatching
Are food and drinks available at Cape Hillsborough?
The park has a kiosk offering basic supplies. For a wider selection, it’s recommended to bring your own groceries or dine in nearby towns.
FAQ: Where to See Kangaroos in Australia
Where is one of the best places to see kangaroos in Australia?
Cape Hillsborough in Queensland is one of the top places to see kangaroos in their natural habitat—especially on the beach at sunrise. It’s a unique blend of wildlife and scenic beauty that stands out among Australia’s many viewing spots.
Can I see kangaroos on the beach anywhere else in Australia?
Yes, places like Lucky Bay in Western Australia and Pebbly Beach in New South Wales also offer beach kangaroo encounters, though Cape Hillsborough is known for its reliable and dramatic sunrise gathering.
Is the Sunrise with the Wallabies experience ethical?
Yes. The experience is managed in partnership with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, with a strong focus on wildlife conservation, visitor education, and safe distances.
Where to Find Cape Hillsborough
Cape Hillsborough is located approximately 50 kilometres north of Mackay, Queensland. You can find it on Google Maps here: Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park
Watch two kangaroos square off at sunrise on the iconic beach at Cape Hillsborough in Queensland, Australia!
Things to see and do near Cape Hillsborough, QLD
Sunrise with the Kangaroos
At first light, eastern grey kangaroos and agile wallabies descend onto the beach to feed on seed pods and other treats washed ashore. This natural spectacle is complemented by the park rangers who provide supplementary food, ensuring visitors get a close yet respectful view.
Explore Scenic Walking Trails
Cape Hillsborough National Park boasts several trails:
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Andrews Point Track: Offers panoramic views of the coastline and Wedge Island.
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Diversity Boardwalk: A gentle walk showcasing the park’s varied ecosystems.
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Yuibera Plant Trail: Provides insights into the traditional uses of local plants by the Yuibera people.
Where to Eat Near Cape Hillsborough
While Cape Hillsborough offers limited dining options, nearby towns have some delightful spots:
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The Old Station Tea House (Ball Bay): A charming café set in a restored railway station, known for its homemade treats and lush gardens.
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Tackles Restaurant (Seaforth): A local favorite offering hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere.
For more options, consider heading to Mackay, approximately 50 km away, which boasts a variety of restaurants and cafés.
🦘 Ready to See Kangaroos on the Beach?
Cape Hillsborough is one of the best places to see kangaroos in Australia — especially at sunrise, when they gather on the sand in a truly unforgettable scene. Whether you’re road tripping or chasing bucket-list wildlife moments, this is a must-see.
📸 Been to Cape Hillsborough or spotted kangaroos somewhere else amazing?
Tag us on Instagram @Australia_Bucket_List — we’d love to feature your adventure!
🧭 Start planning your visit and discover more wild Aussie experiences right here on the blog.
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