Bowen is surrounded with beach opportunities, however, Horseshoe Bay is the heart of Bowen’s beach scene. A favourite for locals and visitors alike, we sorely wished we scheduled more time for here.
Swimming and simply soaking up the sun is what most seemed to be doing. The bay is surrounded by granite outcrops and fringing reef, creating a haven for marine life and setting for snorkeling and underwater exploration.
There is a narrow strip of grass with a few picnic tables, some open and some sheltered, and a bit of additional shade from trees and palms. The nearby cafe and convenient public toilets mean you can pretty much enjoy the entire day at Horseshoe Bay and exploring nearby places.
A walking trail starts near the beach, leading to Rotary Lookout with stunning views over Horseshoe Bay and the coastline towards Bowen. The walk is the start of the Cape Edgecumbe Walking Track which leads through to Rose Bay 
, another beach closer to the Bowen township. The walk has a brown sign at the other end, Murray Bay & Rose Bay Walking Track .
There are a few options for accommodation within close walking reach to the beach. Click on the Stay tab to see what is available.
