Scarlett Sand Banks, Slade Point

Scarlett Sand Banks is the tidal sandbank area off Lamberts Beach at Slade Point, a wide stretch of exposed sand at low tide that locals use for a walk and a paddle with the dog. Reviewers mention sandbars, turtles and watching the tide, so time your visit around the tide chart rather than the clock: at high tide there is barely a bank to speak of.

Leash status

Despite what the open sand suggests, this is not a designated off-leash area. Mackay Regional Council requires dogs on a lead at all times on the beach, the sandbanks and the adjoining walking tracks, with effective control and immediate pick-up; off-leash outside a signed zone risks an on-the-spot fine. Carry your own waste bags, since supply at the access points is not guaranteed, and keep clear of any signed shorebird nesting areas. The nearest off-leash option is the fenced dog park at Wren Street in Slade Point, where the water point is too.

Water and terrain

The banks only fully expose at low tide, leaving firm sand and shallow pools to walk across, with a decent chance of spotting turtles feeding on the edge. Mackay's tidal range is large, and low tide brings its own hazards: intertidal rock platforms get slippery and uneven, and offshore sandbars can push localised surges in strong winds. There is little shade anywhere on the sand.

Max: check the tide before you go and keep the lead on regardless. The bank looks like off-leash heaven at low tide, but the rules do not change with the water level.

Getting there and parking

Park on the street near the end of Swallow Street or around Lamberts Beach and walk in from there; the Slade Point scenic coastal trail connects the headland and beach sections if you want a longer loop, roughly 1 to 2 kilometres for the short version and closer to 5 kilometres if you link the full circuit. Bring your own water bowl for the sandbank itself.

Worth knowing

Council has investigated and supported a dedicated fenced off-leash dog park for Slade Point, so check its off-leash parks page before travelling if an off-lead run is the whole point of your trip. Facilities at the sandbank itself are none: no bins, toilets or water on the sand.

When to go

Low tide on a weekday morning is the best window, when the banks are exposed, the sand has not heated up and the shorebird zones are quieter. In summer go early; the sand radiates hard by mid-morning.

While you're out there

Mackay Seabreeze Apartments is right in Slade Point if you are staying local, and Discovery Parks - Mackay at the harbour is a dog-friendly base a short drive south.

More options are on the Queensland dog walks guide and the Slade Point destination page.