Mission Beach

Everyone has a dream. José Paronella's dream became a reality. On five hectares beside Mena Creek Falls he built his castle, a picnic area by the falls, tennis courts, bridges, a tunnel, and wrapped it up in an amazing range of 7,500 tropical plants and trees.

Eubenangee Swamp, an important wetland in the coastal lowlands between Ingham and Cairns, is a birdwatchers' paradise. Over 190 species of birds have been recorded here. Sitting below the Bellenden Ker Range (the wettest part of Australia), much of this park is flooded during the wet season.

Located south of Cairns, the Frankland Islands don’t see as many tourists as other destinations off this busy holiday city, making it the perfect destination for the snorkeler and less experienced diver.

The Hypipamee crater is referred to as a volcanic pipe. The pipe was opened upward through surface rocks by gas produced from molten rock below and as a result of tremendous pressure, the vent exploded sending volcanic bombs far across the landscape.

A serene blue lake surrounded by lush rainforest, Lake Eacham in part of Crater Lakes National Park. Take a refreshing dip and then relax in the shade, or wander along the viewing decks for uninterrupted water views.

The small blue timber building on the corner of Bruce Highway and Monro Street clearly indicates that this community is serious about tourism. This is the official tourist information centre and its location is designed to catch your attention when you enter town.

Licuala State Forest boasts several enjoyable walking tracks. Enjoy the native wildlife of the area as you walk around the forest…the Ulysses butterfly, cassowaries and green tree frogs. Be sure to look upwards to enjoy the sunlight shining through the beautiful palm leaves…it's truly remarkable!

Beaver Reef is one of the most popular dive sites off Mission Beach with coral gardens, bommies and sloping coral walls in depths to 22 metres. Off the southern side of the reef is a site called Shark Alley.

Plunging over the edge of a columnar basalt lava flow, Big Millstream Falls is reputedly the widest single-drop waterfall in Australia. Wander down the walking track leads to spectacular views of the falls.

Nestled below the rugged Bellenden Ker Range, the picturesque Goldsborough Valley is cloaked in lush lowland rainforest along the clear flowing waters and deep pools of the Mulgrave River. Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the river or set up camp in the spacious camping area.