Set in its own pocket of tropical rainforest is the jewel of the Cassowary Coast...Mission Beach, 14 km of magnificent golden sandy beaches, with Dunk Island just offshore. Surrounded by National Parks and World Heritage listed reef and rainforest, Mission Beach is simply the most magnificent place on earth.

Offshore are the beautiful Family Group of islands including Dunk, Bedarra and Timana Islands, and just south is the largest island National Park in the world, Hinchinbrook Island. The Great Barrier Reef is only 38 kilometres away making Mission Beach the closest access to the Reef and its brilliant white sandy coral beaches known as Beaver and Taylor Cays.

The unique Licuala Fan Palm can be seen in all its magnificence at the Licuala State Forest and Boardwalk. The large tracts of beautiful lowland rainforest is home to the rare and unusual Cassowary, Scrub Turkey, giant green tree frog and countless flora and fauna. Mission Beach is dotted with dozens of species of birds and butterflys, the most famous being the blue Ulysses Butterfly. Its cousin, the Cairns Birdwing can also be found while enjoying the many rainforest walking tracks criss-crossing this ecotourism paradise. The pristine Hull River, its entire length undisturbed, is unique and home to crocodiles, mudcrabs, barramundi and countless underwater life.

This area is heaven to fishermen. The ocean and local rivers teem with endless varieties of fish. Choose between estuary fishing in the Hull River of Muff Creek or simply cast a line from any point on the beach. For reef or game fishing, charter boats and boat hire are available.

Numerous boats depart from various points along Mission Beach for Dunk Island and cruises around the Family Group of islands. Visit the reef and try scuba diving or snorkelling in crystal clear blue waters while experiencing the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. For the adventurer, spend a day rafting on the majestic Tully River or cruise down the Hulk River spotting crocodiles.

Take a guided rainforest walk by night or enjoy some of the nearby swimming holes and waterfalls. Ride a camel or a horse along the beach or watch a parachutist landing on the beach - if you are game, try it yourself!

Visit the local aboriginal community and learn how to throw a boomerang and taste some local bush tucker. Try the different cuisine's available at many restaurants and coffee shops, see the local art displayed at our galleries or check out the beach fashions.

Accommodation is many and varied including luxury beachfront apartments, villas, resorts, motels, budget units, backpackers, hostels, caravan parks and camping sites.

All accommodation facilities have been built to take advantage of the magnificent ocean views, golden beaches and glorious tropical gardens from Bingil Bay to South Mission Beach.

Back to top

All major coachlines operate between Cairns and Townsville and air-conditioned coaches travel direct from Cairns international airport to Mission Beach. Hire cars are available at both Cairns and Townsville airports. Fly into Dunk Island and a short trip by water taxi will take you to Mission Beach. Driving time from Cairns is approximately 1.5 hours. The trip along the Bruce Highway is comfortable and scenic.

Travelling From Cairns...
Heading South from Cairns you will reach the sugar town of Babinda with its huge mill working 24 hours a day during cane harvesting season. The turn off to the Boulders takes you to a series of spectacular cascades and pools full of adventure and perhaps some mystery! Shortly after Babinda is Josephine Falls, a perfect spot to stop for a swim before lunch.

Innisfail is the region's largest town and home to the Johnstone River Crocodile Farm offering a diverse number of animals to feed, see or pat! Mourilyan with its Sugar Museum and harbour are next as you travel down the highway and provide an interesting insight into all facets of growing and transporting sugar cane.

A short journey inland will bring you to the magnificent Paronella Park before rejoining the highway just north of the turnoff to Mission Beach.

Back to top

For further information about the paradise of Mission Beach you can contact the Mission Beach Promotion Bureau on:
PO Box 266, Mission Beach Qld 4852 Australia
Ph: +61 7 40687099 or Fax: +61 7 40687066

Information courtesy of Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Back to top