Mission Beach

Introducing Mission Beach

The 14km coastal stretch of Mission Beach – including Wongaling and South Mission Beaches in the south, Mission Beach in the middle, and Bingil Bay and beautiful Garners Beach in the north – lures many beach and rainforest pilgrims, not to mention southern state escapees seeking an endless summer, and a café latte within arm’s length.

There’s plenty of accommodation options. Mission Beach, fast becoming the busiest pit stop between Townsville and Cairns, is at the crossroads – it is a place divided by development. Meanwhile, Mission Beach’s signature species, the endangered southern cassowary (seemingly part emu, part aging rocker with attitude, and a black wiry wig to prove it) lobs around reminding everyone why they came here in the first place.

Dunk Island, resembling a sleeping woman 4.5km offshore, is home to a ritzy resort. This gorgeous island park offers ‘peace and plenty’ (according to the area’s indigenous people), or at least the option of a day pass to the über-deluxe resort’s pool and restaurant.

To avoid an unexpected meeting with a croc or stinger, don’t swim in any of Mission Beach’s beach creeks – stick to the swimming enclosures provided.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009