Mackay Reef (Mackay Coral Cay) is a pristine sand cay on the outer Great Barrier Reef, roughly 38 km northeast of Port Douglas. This remote paradise is surrounded by crystal-clear, warm waters teeming with vibrant coral gardens, making it a world-class snorkeling destination. Unlike many inner reef sites, this cay sits on the reef's northern frontier, offering exceptional visibility and an untouched, wild beauty. A small white sandy island emerges at low tide, providing a postcard-perfect tropical setting where you can swim directly from the cay into kaleidoscopic coral formations.
Mackay Reef (Mackay Coral Cay)
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Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 6.7 sWind Speed 8.1 knPrecipitation 3.8 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish)
Box jellyfish and Irukandji are present in these waters during the warmer months (October to May).
Low risk: Strong currents on outer reef
The outer reef location can experience strong tidal currents. Snorkel tours guide guests to protected areas near the cay where conditions are calmer.
Low risk: Sun exposure
Intense tropical sun with limited shade on the open sand cay. High UV index year-round.
Low risk: Coral cuts and scrapes
Sharp coral formations are abundant. Touching or standing on coral can cause injury and damages the reef.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
2 photos from the community
Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Located approximately 38 km northeast of Port Douglas, Queensland. Access is exclusively by boat tour — operators depart from Port Douglas Marina (Sailaway, Ocean Safari, and others). From Cairns, drive north on the Captain Cook Highway (~1 hour) to Port Douglas.
Parking & facilities
Paid parking available at Port Douglas Marina and surrounding streets. Arrive early for best availability.
toiletsparkingshowers
Day tours range from approximately AUD $180–$310 per adult, including snorkel gear, guided snorkeling, and lunch. Check individual operators for current pricing.
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Gallery ┬╖ 2 photos
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports