Only children believe in fairytales. Their tiny minds create the fantasy that reality makes impossible for adults. But, on arriving at Mission Beach you might just believe that fairytales can come true...Surrounded by National Parks and World Heritage listed reef and rainforest, it's simply the most magnificent place on Earth. Offshore are the beautiful Family Group of islands including Dunk, Bedarra and Timana Islands, and just to the 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.

Mission Beach's history is as old as our country, Captain Cook being the first of many explorers to sail our waters and marvel at the majestic beauty of our region. He and those that followed left many reminders of their journeys, naming Dunk and Hinchinbrook Islands as well as many other landmarks. An aboriginal mission was established at South Mission beach in 1912, hence the name. The peace and serenity of the area has attracted many famous people over the years including former Prime Minister, Harold Holt.

The unique Licuala Fan Palm can be seen in all its magnificence at the Licuala State Forest and Boardwalk. The large tracts of the beautiful lowland rainforest are 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 different species of birds and butterflies, the most famous being the beautiful iridescent electric 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, mud crabs, 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 or Muff Creek or simply cast a line from any point on the beach. For reed 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 adventurous, spend a day rafting on the majestic Tully River or cruise down the Hull River spotting crocodiles. Take a guided rainforest night walk or enjoy some of the nearby swimming holes and waterfalls. Ride a camel or a horse along the beach or watch parachutists landing on the beach, or 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 cuisines available at our many restaurants and coffee shops, see the local art displayed at our galleries or check out the beach fashions.