Mission Beach, Tropical North Queensland

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Mission Beach is known as the nearest starting point for trips to the Great Barrier Reefs. Several hire companies can arrange trips for families and friends interested in visiting, swimming, diving, or snorkeling this world-renown World Heritage site.

The town is also the gateway to Dunk Island, where the Family Islands National Park is located. The island is known as an ideal spot for swimming and camping. Visitors can purchase souvenirs and art crafts produced by the island's small artist colony.

Land-based recreation can also be had in Mission Beach. With the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Clump Mountain National Park practically right in its doorsteps, hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. A walk through the Bicton Hill allows visitors to view exotic animals and rare plants.

The main attraction at the Licuala State Forest is its Licuala Fan Palms that provide ample shade along its walking paths. It is safe to bring children to this forest, as there's a walk specifically designed for their enjoyment.

A more interesting and colorful walk is offered along the town's foreshores. Named the Ulysses Link Walk, it incorporates the town's cultural and artistic heritage.

More vigorous individuals can also participate in the walk along Kennedy Track, which takes about four hours to complete. Attractions along the way include spectacular beaches and extensive eucalyptus forest.

And while they're at it, the more adventurous make it a point not to leave the area without trying one extreme sport - skydiving. The nearby town of Cairns, north of Mission Beach, is the base of the Paul's Extreme Diving services. Tandem skydiving right there on the coast is one perfect way to experience a natural rush, besides affording spectacular aerial views of Mission Beach and its surrounding areas.

One unique feature of the town is the five-meter tall Big Cassowary statue at Wongaling Beach. Cassowaries are large, flightless birds native to the area and in New Zealand.

For those interested in a more cultural experience, there are several wineries located in Mission Beach that primarily produce tropical fruit wines. After visiting the wineries, a trip to the Sellars Banana Farms is also worth anyone's while. Banana production is a major industry in Mission Beach, and a tour within the farm will give visitors first-hand knowledge of its inner workings.