13 Dec 08 Dunk Island

The spectacular north Queensland island, known as Dunk Island, is found approximately 120 kilometers south of Cairns and 160 kilometers north of Townsville. Located just four kilometers off the coast of Mission Beach, Dunk Island measures in at six kilometers long and two kilometers wide. The island also has a beautiful tropical climate spawning an average year round temperature of roughly 29 degrees Celsius.

As history goes, Dunk Island was originally known as Coonangleba, meaning ‘Island of Peace and Plenty’, by the local indigenous Australians that inhabited the area. Only in 1770, when James Cook was exploring the Queensland coastline, did Dunk Island acquire its European name after the Earl of Halifax, George Montagu Dunk. From its historical beginnings to the present day, many people have since visited the island to enjoy its unique majestic nature.

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13 Dec 08 Camping near Mission Beach

Mission Beach has great weather, 14 kilometers of stunning beaches, lush tropical rainforests and a welcoming local community. Also surrounded by hectares of National Parks and featuring Dunk Island just off the coast, Mission Beach is an ideal location for camping enthusiasts. This form of accommodation is the best way to truly experience Mission Beach’s natural surroundings.

Privately owed caravan parks in town are the most common place to set up a tent. For a minimal fee, campers can enjoy their own space, whilst taking advantage of the caravan parks facilities. Other popular camping locations in Mission Beach can be located at any of the National Parks. After obtaining a permit from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, campers are free to camp at any designated camping ground, providing they follow the rules and regulations outlined by the Park.

Just a short water taxi ride off the Mission Beach coast is Dunk Island, a campers dream. There are public and private campsites scattered along the beaches, but once again a permit is required. This fantastic island is covered in natural splendour, which campers usually enjoy to a greater extent.

22 Nov 08 Mission Beach

Mission Beach is a small coastal town, located in the ‘Wet Tropics’ region of Northern Queensland. Known for its stunning natural beauty and as a perfect getaway point to some of the most elusive tropical islands off the Australian coast, Mission Beach is thought to be a haven for both international and national travelers.

In Australia, Mission Beach spans a tiny 22 kilometers and can be found approximately 150 kilometers south of Cairns and 230 kilometers north of Townsville, on the Cassowary Coast. Famous for its stunning beaches lined by World Heritage listed rainforest, Mission Beach also adjoins the Coral Sea, which encompasses island paradises like Dunk, Bedarra, Hinchinbrook and Orpheus, crystal clear waters and the most spectacular marine spectacle, The Great Barrier Reef.
Mission Beach is thriving with natural splendors and has everything necessary for an unimaginably magnificent travelers visit.

On the land, in the air and water, there is a fine selection of activities, attractions and entertainment opportunities awaiting Mission Beach visitors, both during the day and at night. A few popular enjoyment options, associated with Mission Beach and its surrounding areas include Tiger Moth scenic flights, white water rafting, fabulous fresh and saltwater fishing, the Babinda Boulders, National Park rainforest walks and a visit to Paronella Park.

Mission Beach is considered by many to be an appealingly quaint town, encompassing four welcoming communities. It  has a good variety of quality accommodation and terrific dining choices available to all travelers, on varying budgets.  Visitors to the area will also find public and private travel options are numerous and essential services, property information and employment facilities are readily available, in various locations throughout the township.

As one of Australia’s prime travel destinations, Mission Beach’s unique natural beauty has not been compromised due to its increasing popularity among visitors to Northern Queensland. Along with its surrounding mainland locations and exquisite collection of islands, Mission Beach has a lot to offer its visitors.