Dolphin Heads (Mackay Coast)

Dolphin Heads is a rocky, low-profile right-hand point break near Mackay on Queensland’s North Coast. It’s described as reasonably exposed, but the wave action is fickle—rideable surf generally depends on having the right swell size and direction, and the location’s relationship to the reef means it often takes very large swells (including cyclone conditions) to get proper waves. The spot is highly sensitive to tide. Multiple notes emphasize that rocks become a bigger concern around low tide, and the best surfing window is around mid-tide when the setup is more forgiving and the lineup is safer. Even when conditions are favorable, the bottom is still rocky, with rocks both in the lineup and near shore—so sessions require careful line choice and situational awareness. Wind is typically offshore in the usual favorable wind directions for the coast (with southwest to west winds described as offshore at the spot), though the headland can create shadowing under southerly winds. Ideal swell direction for surfing is reported from the northeast/east-southeast range, and the spot is most often discussed during cyclone-season conditions. For safety: expect strong tidal currents, exposed and submerged rocks, and seasonal marine stingers. No lifeguard coverage is reported, and local guidance is to take extra care around rocks—especially at low tide—and plan using tide charts before entering the water.