Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit a city that lies on the Tropic of Capricorn, the imaginary line that divides the earth into two hemispheres? A city that has a rich history and culture, dating back to the Aboriginal people who have lived there for thousands of years? A city that is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s natural wonders, and the Capricorn Coast, a hidden paradise of islands, beaches, and coral? A city that offers a range of activities and experiences, from diving and snorkelling, to swimming and hiking, to cruising and tasting, to exploring and discovering, to experiencing and enjoying?
If you are looking for such a city, look no further than Rockhampton, the capital of Central Queensland, Australia. Rockhampton is a city that has it all, and more. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive and informative guide to Rockhampton and its attractions, activities, accommodation, food, and events. Whether you are travelling solo, with your partner, with your family, or with your friends, you will find something that suits your interests, preferences, and budget in Rockhampton. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Things to Do in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast
One of the main reasons why people visit Rockhampton is because of the variety and quality of the things to do in and around the city. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast offer a range of attractions and activities that cater to different tastes and needs, from adventure seekers, to culture lovers, to nature enthusiasts, to relaxation seekers. Here are some of the things that you can do in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast:

Dive or Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef
If you are a fan of marine life and coral, you cannot miss the opportunity to dive or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of species of fish, coral, turtles, dolphins, whales, and more, and offers a spectacular underwater scenery that will take your breath away. You can access the Great Barrier Reef from Rockhampton by taking a boat, a plane, or a helicopter to one of the many islands or reefs that are part of the reef system, such as Heron Island, Lady Elliot Island, Lady Musgrave Island, or Keppel Reef. There, you can join a guided tour, or explore the reef on your own, depending on your level of experience and comfort. You can also choose to stay overnight on some of the islands, and enjoy the sunrise and sunset over the reef.
Stay on an Eco-Friendly Island in the Keppel Islands
If you are looking for a more secluded and serene experience, you can stay on an eco-friendly island in the Keppel Islands, a group of 18 islands that are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and the Capricorn Coast National Park. The Keppel Islands are known for their pristine beaches, clear waters, and diverse wildlife, and offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can stay on one of the islands, such as Great Keppel Island, Pumpkin Island, or North Keppel Island, and enjoy the facilities and services that are designed to minimise the environmental impact and maximise the guest satisfaction. You can also participate in various activities, such as kayaking, sailing, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Swim in an Infinity Pool with a View of the Fitzroy River
If you are looking for a more urban and luxurious experience, you can swim in an infinity pool with a view of the Fitzroy River, the largest river in Queensland, and the lifeline of Rockhampton. The Fitzroy River is a scenic and historic river that flows through the city, and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and cruising. You can swim in an infinity pool that overlooks the river, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city skyline, the riverbank, and the surrounding mountains. You can find such a pool at the Rockhampton Riverside Hotel, a four-star hotel that is located in the heart of the city, and offers modern and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a gym, and a rooftop terrace.

Swim in Rainforest Creeks and Waterfalls
If you are looking for a more natural and refreshing experience, you can swim in rainforest creeks and waterfalls, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the tropical rainforest. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast are surrounded by lush and green rainforest, that is home to many species of plants and animals, and features many creeks and waterfalls that are ideal for swimming and cooling off. You can visit some of the rainforest areas, such as Byfield National Park, Mount Archer National Park, or Mount Jim Crow National Park, and follow the walking trails that lead to the creeks and waterfalls, such as Water Park Creek, Stony Creek, Zamia Creek, or Moores Creek Falls. There, you can swim in the clear and fresh water, and enjoy the sound and sight of the flowing water and the forest.

Visit a Heritage Village and Museum
If you are interested in the history and culture of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast, you can visit a heritage village and museum, and learn more about the past and present of the region. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast have a rich and diverse history and culture, that spans from the Aboriginal people who have lived there for thousands of years, to the European settlers who arrived in the 19th century, to the modern and multicultural community that lives there today. You can visit some of the heritage and cultural sites, such as the Rockhampton Heritage Village, the Archer Park Rail Museum, the Rockhampton Art Gallery, or the Dreamtime Cultural Centre, and see the exhibits, displays, and collections that showcase the stories, artefacts, and artworks of the people who have shaped the region.
Explore a National Park and See Wildlife
If you are a wildlife lover and a nature lover, you can explore a national park and see wildlife, and experience the diversity and beauty of the flora and fauna of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast are blessed with a variety of national parks and wildlife reserves, that protect and conserve the habitats and ecosystems of many species of plants and animals, some of which are rare and endangered. You can explore some of the national parks and wildlife reserves, such as the Capricorn Caves, the Blackdown Tableland National Park, the Mount Etna Caves National Park, or the Koorana Crocodile Farm, and see the wildlife that lives there, such as bats, crocodiles, kangaroos, koalas, emus, echidnas, and more.
Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the Fitzroy River
If you are looking for a romantic and relaxing experience, you can enjoy a sunset cruise on the Fitzroy River, and witness the beauty and charm of the river and the city at dusk. The Fitzroy River is a scenic and historic river that flows through the city, and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and cruising. You can enjoy a sunset cruise on the river, and see the changing colours of the sky, the water, and the city, as the sun sets behind the mountains. You can also enjoy the live commentary, the music, the drinks, and the snacks, that are provided on board the cruise.
Taste Local Produce and Cuisine
If you are a foodie and a gourmand, you can taste local produce and cuisine, and savour the flavours and aromas of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast are known for their high-quality and fresh produce and cuisine, that reflect the diversity and richness of the region. You can taste some of the local produce and cuisine, such as beef, seafood, coffee, wine, cheese, chocolate, and more, and discover why Rockhampton is the beef capital of Australia, and why the Capricorn Coast is a seafood lover’s paradise. You can also visit some of the local markets, farms, wineries, breweries, or cafes, and see how the produce and cuisine are grown, made, and served.
Discover Aboriginal Art and Culture
If you are curious and respectful, you can discover Aboriginal art and culture, and learn more about the original and oldest inhabitants of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast. The Aboriginal people have lived in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast for thousands of years, and have a rich and diverse art and culture, that express their connection and respect for the land, the water, the sky, and the spirit. You can discover some of the Aboriginal art and culture, such as rock art, paintings, sculptures, carvings, stories, songs, dances, ceremonies, and languages, and appreciate the beauty and wisdom of the Aboriginal people. You can also visit some of the Aboriginal sites, such as the Dreamtime Cultural Centre, the Darumbal Cultural Centre, or the Garingbal National Park.
Experience a Rodeo and Country Music
If you are looking for a fun and exciting experience, you can experience a rodeo and country music, and join the locals in celebrating their passion and pride for their rural lifestyle. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast are known for their strong and vibrant rodeo and country music scene, that attracts thousands of visitors and performers every year. You can experience some of the rodeo and country music events, such as the Rockhampton Rodeo, the Great Western Hotel Rodeo, the Beef Australia Rodeo, or the Rockhampton Country Music Festival, and see the skills and talents of the cowboys and cowgirls, the horses and bulls, and the singers and musicians. You can also join in the fun and excitement, and cheer, dance, and sing along with the crowd.
Where to Stay in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast
Another reason why people visit Rockhampton is because of the variety and affordability of the accommodation options that the city and the surrounding areas have to offer. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast offer a range of accommodation options that suit different needs and budgets, from hotels, motels, resorts, apartments, cabins, campsites, and more. Here are some of the accommodation options that you can choose from in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast:
Rockhampton Riverside Hotel
If you are looking for a modern and comfortable hotel that is located in the heart of the city, you can choose the Rockhampton Riverside Hotel, a four-star hotel that overlooks the Fitzroy River, and offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the riverbank, and the surrounding mountains. The Rockhampton Riverside Hotel features 49 rooms, ranging from standard to deluxe, that are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, and ensuite bathroom. The hotel also offers a restaurant, a bar, a gym, a rooftop terrace, and an infinity pool. The hotel is within walking distance of many attractions, such as the Rockhampton Art Gallery, the Pilbeam Theatre, the Rockhampton Heritage Village, and the Rockhampton Zoo.
Capricorn Caves Eco-Resort
If you are looking for a unique and eco-friendly resort that is located in the midst of nature, you can choose the Capricorn Caves Eco-Resort, a three-star resort that is situated in the Capricorn Caves, a limestone cave system that is one of the oldest and largest in Australia, and a natural wonder that is worth exploring. The Capricorn Caves Eco-Resort features 12 cabins, ranging from studio to family, that are built with natural materials, and are designed to blend in with the environment. The cabins are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, kitchenette, and ensuite bathroom. The resort also offers a cafe, a bar, a pool, a playground, and a conference centre. The resort is within easy access of many activities, such as cave tours, adventure caving, abseiling, rock climbing, and wildlife watching.
Great Keppel Island Hideaway
If you are looking for a secluded and serene island getaway that is located in the Great Barrier Reef, you can choose the Great Keppel Island Hideaway, a two-star hideaway that is situated on Great Keppel Island, one of the most beautiful and pristine islands in the Keppel Islands, and the Capricorn Coast. The Great Keppel Island Hideaway features 48 rooms, ranging from tents to cabins, that are simple and rustic, and are designed to provide a relaxing and authentic island experience. The rooms are equipped with fans, linen, towels, and shared bathroom facilities. The hideaway also offers a restaurant, a bar, a shop, and a laundry. The hideaway is within close proximity of many attractions, such as the white sandy beaches, the clear blue waters, and the colourful coral reefs.
Fitzroy River Lodge
If you are looking for a spacious and comfortable lodge that is located on the banks of the river, you can choose the Fitzroy River Lodge, a three-star lodge that overlooks the Fitzroy River, and offers a tranquil and scenic setting for your stay. The Fitzroy River Lodge features 63 rooms, ranging from motel to villa, that are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, fridge, coffee maker, and ensuite bathroom. The lodge also offers a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a tennis court, and a conference centre. The lodge is within driving distance of many attractions, such as the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, the Mount Archer National Park, the Capricorn Caves, and the Koorana Crocodile Farm.
Discovery Parks Rockhampton
If you are looking for a family-friendly and budget-friendly park that is located in the outskirts of the city, you can choose the Discovery Parks Rockhampton, a two-star park that offers a fun and relaxing environment for your stay. The Discovery Parks Rockhampton features 55 rooms, ranging from cabin to caravan, that are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, kitchen, and ensuite bathroom. The park also offers a cafe, a shop, a pool, a playground, a jumping pillow, and a games room. The park is within driving distance of many attractions, such as the Rockhampton Zoo, the Rockhampton Heritage Village, the Rockhampton Art Gallery, and the Rockhampton Showgrounds.
Emu Park Holiday Park
If you are looking for a cosy and charming park that is located on the coast, you can choose the Emu Park Holiday Park, a two-star park that is situated in Emu Park, a small and quaint seaside town that is part of the Capricorn Coast. The Emu Park Holiday Park features 25 rooms, ranging from cottage to campsite, that are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, kitchen, and ensuite or shared bathroom facilities. The park also offers a barbecue area, a laundry, a pool, and a kiosk. The park is within walking distance of many attractions, such as the Emu Park Beach, the Singing Ship Monument, the Emu Park Art Gallery, and the Emu Park Markets.
What to Eat in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast
Another reason why people visit Rockhampton is because of the variety and quality of the food and drink options that the city and the surrounding areas have to offer. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast are known for their high-quality and fresh produce and cuisine, that reflect the diversity and richness of the region. Here are some of the food and drink options that you can try in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast:
Rockhampton Steakhouse: The Home of the Best Beef in Australia
If you are a meat lover and a steak lover, you cannot miss the opportunity to try the Rockhampton Steakhouse, a restaurant that serves the best beef in Australia, and possibly the world. The Rockhampton Steakhouse is a restaurant that specialises in beef, and offers a variety of cuts, grades, and styles, that are sourced from local farms, and cooked to perfection. You can choose from the menu, or from the display cabinet, and enjoy your steak with a selection of sauces, sides, and salads. You can also pair your steak with a glass of wine, a beer, or a cocktail, from the extensive and impressive list of drinks.
Capricorn Food and Wine Festival: A Celebration of Local Produce and Cuisine
If you are a foodie and a gourmand, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend the Capricorn Food and Wine Festival, a festival that celebrates the local produce and cuisine of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast, and showcases the talents and skills of the chefs, producers, and artisans of the region. The Capricorn Food and Wine Festival is a festival that takes place every year in September, and features a variety of events, such as tastings, demonstrations, workshops, masterclasses, dinners, lunches, brunches, and more. You can sample some of the local produce and cuisine, such as beef, seafood, coffee, wine, cheese, chocolate, and more, and learn from the experts and enthusiasts who share their knowledge and passion.
The Waterline Restaurant: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
If you are a seafood lover and a fish lover, you cannot miss the opportunity to dine at the Waterline Restaurant, a restaurant that serves the freshest and finest seafood in the Capricorn Coast, and offers a stunning view of the Keppel Bay Marina. The Waterline Restaurant is a restaurant that specialises in seafood, and offers a variety of dishes, such as oysters, prawns, scallops, crab, fish, and more, that are sourced from local fishermen, and prepared with local ingredients and flavours. You can choose from the menu, or from the specials board, and enjoy your seafood with a selection of breads, sauces, sides, and salads. You can also pair your seafood with a bottle of wine, a beer, or a cocktail, from the award-winning and extensive list of drinks.
The Two Professors: A Coffee Shop with a Difference
If you are a coffee lover and a caffeine lover, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Two Professors, a coffee shop that serves the best coffee in Rockhampton, and offers a unique and quirky atmosphere. The Two Professors is a coffee shop that specialises in coffee, and offers a variety of blends, roasts, and brews, that are sourced from local and international growers, and roasted and brewed on site. You can choose from the menu, or from the daily specials, and enjoy your coffee with a selection of cakes, muffins, sandwiches, and salads. You can also enjoy the decor and vibe of the coffee shop, which features a vintage and industrial style, a library and a laboratory, and a collection of books and gadgets.
Headricks Lane: A Microbrewery and Gastropub
If you are a beer lover and a pub lover, you cannot miss the opportunity to check out Headricks Lane, a microbrewery and gastropub that serves the finest craft beer and pub food in Rockhampton, and offers a lively and friendly environment. Headricks Lane is a microbrewery and gastropub that specialises in beer, and offers a variety of styles, flavours, and strengths, that are brewed on site, and served on tap or in bottles. You can choose from the menu, or from the seasonal and limited editions, and enjoy your beer with a selection of burgers, pizzas, steaks, and snacks. You can also enjoy the music and entertainment of the pub, which features live bands, DJs, trivia nights, and karaoke nights.
Koorana Crocodile Farm: A Unique and Exotic Dining Experience
If you are feeling adventurous and daring, you cannot miss the opportunity to try the Koorana Crocodile Farm, a farm and restaurant that serves crocodile meat and other exotic dishes, and offers a unique and exotic dining experience. The Koorana Crocodile Farm is a farm and restaurant that specialises in crocodile meat, and offers a variety of dishes, such as crocodile burgers, crocodile pies, crocodile nuggets, crocodile curry, and more. You can choose from the menu, or from the specials board, and enjoy your crocodile meat with a selection of sauces, sides, and salads. You can also enjoy the view and the thrill of the farm, which features over 3000 crocodiles, and offers tours, shows, and feeding sessions.
What’s On in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast
Another reason why people visit Rockhampton is because of the variety and quality of the events and festivals that the city and the surrounding areas have to offer. Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast are known for their vibrant and diverse events and festivals, that celebrate the culture, lifestyle, and spirit of the region. Here are some of the events and festivals that you can attend in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast:
Rockhampton River Festival: A Three-Day Celebration of the City and the River
If you are looking for a fun and festive experience, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend the Rockhampton River Festival, a festival that celebrates the city and the river, and showcases the talents and skills of the local community. The Rockhampton River Festival is a festival that takes place every year in July, and features a variety of events, such as markets, workshops, performances, exhibitions, competitions, fireworks, and more. You can join the festival, and enjoy the food, music, art, culture, and entertainment, that are offered along the banks of the Fitzroy River.
Beef Australia: The Nation’s Biggest Beef Expo and Festival
If you are looking for a unique and educational experience, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend Beef Australia, the nation’s biggest beef expo and festival, and learn more about the beef industry and its importance to Rockhampton and Australia. Beef Australia is an expo and festival that takes place every three years in May, and features a variety of events, such as seminars, workshops, demonstrations, trade shows, auctions, competitions, and more. You can attend the expo and festival, and see the latest innovations, trends, and developments, in the beef industry, and meet the people who are involved in the production, processing, and marketing, of beef. You can also taste some of the best beef dishes, and enjoy some of the best beef entertainment, that are offered at the expo and festival.
Great Keppel Island Festival: A Weekend of Music, Art, and Fun
If you are looking for a relaxing and enjoyable experience, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend the Great Keppel Island Festival, a festival that celebrates the island and its beauty, and showcases the talents and skills of the local and national artists and musicians. The Great Keppel Island Festival is a festival that takes place every year in September, and features a variety of events, such as concerts, workshops, exhibitions, markets, yoga, and more. You can attend the festival, and enjoy the music, art, culture, and fun, that are offered on the island, and also enjoy the natural attractions, such as the beaches, the waters, and the reefs, that are available on the island.
Rockhampton Art Gallery: A Showcase of Local and National Talent
If you are looking for a cultural and artistic experience, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Rockhampton Art Gallery, a gallery that showcases the local and national talent, and offers a diverse and impressive collection of artworks. The Rockhampton Art Gallery is a gallery that features a variety of artworks, such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and more, that are created by local and national artists, and reflect the history, culture, and identity, of Rockhampton and Australia. You can visit the gallery, and see the permanent and temporary exhibitions, that are displayed in the gallery, and also participate in the programs and events, that are organised by the gallery, such as tours, talks, workshops, and more.
Rockhampton Show: A Traditional Agricultural Show with Rides, Games, and Entertainment
If you are looking for a family-friendly and fun-filled experience, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend the Rockhampton Show, a traditional agricultural show that offers rides, games, and entertainment, for people of all ages. The Rockhampton Show is a show that takes place every year in June, and features a variety of events, such as animal displays, competitions, exhibits, demonstrations, fireworks, and more. You can attend the show, and enjoy the rides, games, and entertainment, that are offered at the showground, and also see the animals, products, and services, that are showcased by the local farmers, producers, and businesses.
Rockhampton Cup: A Premier Horse Racing Event
If you are looking for a thrilling and glamorous experience, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend the Rockhampton Cup, a premier horse racing event that attracts thousands of spectators and punters, and offers a chance to win big. The Rockhampton Cup is a horse racing event that takes place every year in July, and features a variety of races, such as the Rockhampton Cup, the Rockhampton Newmarket, the Rockhampton Guineas, and more. You can attend the event, and enjoy the excitement and atmosphere of the races, and also enjoy the fashion, food, and entertainment, that are offered at the racecourse.
As you can see, Rockhampton is a city that has it all, and more. Rockhampton is a city that offers a variety of attractions, activities, accommodation, food, and events, for travellers of all kinds. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, nature, or relaxation, Rockhampton has something for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Rockhampton today, and discover why Rockhampton is the ultimate destination for your next holiday. For more information and resources, visit the official tourism website of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast.