Experiences
TOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN BOWEN
Looking for the best things to do in Bowen? From beautiful beaches and fringing reefs to scenic lookouts, walking trails and family-friendly attractions, Bowen has plenty to discover. Here are 10 experiences to add to your itinerary when visiting this relaxed seaside town at the top of the Whitsundays.
1. Visit the Big Mango
No visit to Bowen is complete without a photo at the iconic Big Mango, located beside the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway. Standing 10 metres high, this famous Queensland "Big Thing" celebrates the delicious mangoes grown throughout the Bowen region. While you're there, call into the Visitor Information Centre for local advice, maps, souvenirs and a refreshing 100% Bowen mango sorbet.
2. Snorkel at Horseshoe Bay
Discover colourful coral and marine life just metres from the shore at beautiful Horseshoe Bay, one of Bowen's most popular beaches. Bowen's fringing reefs make it possible to enjoy snorkelling straight from the beach without having to take a boat trip. Bring your snorkel and explore the underwater world before relaxing on the sand at this picturesque bay.
3. Stroll Around Mullers Lagoon
Enjoy a peaceful walk around the parklands at Mullers Lagoon, a beautiful 23-hectare botanical garden and wetlands in the heart of Bowen. The man-made lagoon is home to an impressive variety of birdlife and features landscaped gardens, walking paths, picnic areas and plenty of shady spots to relax. It's an ideal place for birdwatching, photography or a leisurely stroll. You may even see baby turtles in the lagoon!
4. Enjoy Views from Flagstaff Hill
For one of the best views in Bowen, head to Flagstaff Hill and take in the spectacular 360-degree panorama across the coastline, islands, bays and surrounding countryside. You will be able to see the historic lighthouse from here.. It's a great place to appreciate Bowen's unique position where the Whitsunday islands meet the mainland. Take your camera and allow some time to simply enjoy the view. This lookout is one you drive to, not walk to - and is not suitable if you are towing a caravan.
5. Walk the Edgecumbe Track
Explore some of Bowen's spectacular coastline on the Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trail, which connects several of the town's beautiful beaches and lookouts. The track offers wonderful views across the Coral Sea and takes you through a changing landscape of rocky headlands, bushland and secluded bays. Keep your camera handy. There are plenty of great photo opportunities along the way.
6. Visit the Historic Cinema
Step back in time with a visit to Bowen's much-loved Summergarden Cinema, a local landmark with a history stretching back more than a century. This charming art-deco building houses and independent cinema that continues to screen the latest movies while retaining plenty of old-fashioned character. It's a wonderful piece of Bowen history and a great option for an evening out.
7. Check Out the Murals Around Town
Discover Bowen's fascinating history through the colourful Bowen murals located throughout the town centre. The murals tell stories of the people, industries and events that helped shape Bowen, turning a walk around town into an open-air history tour. Check out the mural map in the Bowen and Collinsville Visitor Guide which can be downloaded from this website, or you can pick up a copy at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
8. Walk Along the Bowen Jetty
Take a stroll along the historic 750 metre Bowen Jetty and enjoy the sea breeze and views across Port Denison. The jetty has been a part of Bowen's maritime story for more than 150 years and remains a popular spot for a leisurely walk, photography and watching activity on the water. Keep an eye out for marine life while you're there.
9. Have a Game of Golf by the Sea
Enjoy a round of golf with a difference at Bowen's picturesque seaside golf course. With beautiful coastal views and the Coral Sea providing the backdrop, it's easy to see why a game here is about much more than the scorecard. Pack the clubs and enjoy one of Bowen's most scenic sporting experiences.
10. Take the Kids to the Water Park
Cool off with the family at Bowen's free water park at Front Beach. With water jets, fountains and plenty of opportunities to splash around, it's a favourite with children and a great place to visit on a warm North Queensland day. Its waterfront location also puts you close to other attractions and facilities around Front Beach.
Things to do in surrounds
Hamilton Island Golf Club
Scamper Island Camping
Heart Reef
Shute Harbour
Whitehaven Camping Transfers
Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays
Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island
Lake Proserpine
Reefsuites
1hr Jet Ski Guided Tour
Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP and Snorkel Day Sail Tour
Southern Lights Tour departing Airlie Beach
Camira Sailing Adventure
Island Resort Connections
Fly Raft Adventure Package departing Airlie Beach
DID YOU KNOW?
Bowen's Big Mango is big, it's bright and it's one of Australia's most recognisable roadside attractions. Standing 10 metres high beside the Bowen Visitor Information Centre, the Big Mango has been stopping travellers in their tracks for more than two decades.
DID YOU KNOW?
Bowen's Big Mango is big, it's bright and it's one of Australia's most recognisable roadside attractions. Standing 10 metres high beside the Bowen Visitor Information Centre, the Big Mango has been stopping travellers in their tracks for more than two decades.