Magical Mission beach sits between Cairns and Townsville in Far North Queensland. This relaxed and beautiful holiday destination boasts 14 kilometres of tropical coastline, fronted by crystal blue water and backed by lush green rainforest.
Off the coast lies the Family Islands National Park with Dunk Island being the largest. Dunk makes a wonderful day trip destination as it only takes ten minutes to get there by the Mission Beach Dunk Island Water Taxi.
Dunk Island was famous for its world-class resort which was sadly destroyed when Cyclone Yasi ripped through the area in 2011. The resort hasn’t been rebuilt, but visitors are still attracted to the island because of the spectacular natural beauty.
More than half of the pristine island is declared National Park and is a top spot for hiking. There are around 15 kilometres of walking trails to explore and you can find the best views on the island from the highest point, Mount Kootaloo.
From the lookout, you can admire the rest of the islands in the Family Islands National Park. Bedarra, Timana, Wheeler, Coombe, Smith, Bowden and Hudson.
The Sunset Café is the only tourist business on Dunk Island and is the perfect spot to rehydrate with a fresh coconut and refuel with local seafood straight off the trawler.
If you want to linger a little longer, you can extend your stay on Dunk Island. It’s as easy as picking up a permit from Queensland National Parks and then pitching a tent in the camp site. But if you’d prefer to stay on the mainland, Castaways Resort and Spa is a tranquil paradise in Mission Beach.
You can live in luxury with rooms that have spectacular views to the Coral Coast. Lap up the laid back lifestyle by the edge of the beachfront pool. Or pamper yourself at Castaway’s Drift Day Spa.
Mission Beach Dunk Island Water Taxi
(07) 4068 8310
www.missionbeachwatertaxi.com
Castaways Spa and Resort
(07) 4068 7444
www.castaways.com.au
