Bowen (Horseshoe Bay & Big Mango)
Bowen
The oldest town in North Queensland. Horseshoe Bay's small beach lets you snorkel right from shore, and the giant mango sculpture at the town entrance is a classic photo stop.
Bowen was founded in 1861 and is known for its mangoes and tomatoes. The film Australia was partly shot here. Horseshoe Bay is sheltered by reefs, so you can snorkel right off the beach. Nearby Mary Bay and Murray Bay are also worth a visit, and they can be linked by a coastal walkway. Beside the visitor centre at the town entrance stands a 10-metre-tall giant mango sculpture. Entry is free. Bowen is about 1 hour's drive from Airlie Beach, making it a good self-drive day trip.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Lake Proserpine (Peter Faust Dam)
- Airlie Beach Lagoon
- Conway National Park
- Shute Harbour
- Daydream Island
- Langford Island
- Cedar Creek Falls
- Hayman Island & Blue Pearl Bay