Heading south, explore Townsville and Magnetic Island, perfect for combining beaches, hiking trails, and local wildlife. Continue on to Russell River National Park, where waterfalls and rainforests offer refreshing breaks. Add the secluded beaches of Kurrimine Beach or the spectacular panoramas of Paluma Range National Park to your itinerary for a road trip that blends nature, relaxation, and adventure at every turn.
📍 Mission Beach
2h-2h15 south of Cairns
Mission Beach
At Mission Beach, you can enjoy the main beach and the Clump Point Lookout for views of the coast and islands, walk along the Kennedy Walking Track between forest and beach, explore the reefs with Mission Beach Dive, go skydiving with Skydive Mission Beach, and end up at the lively market in Ulysses Park.
Babinda
In Babinda, you can explore the Babinda Boulders with their natural pools and large, smooth boulders, then stroll along the Babinda Creek trails to observe tropical birds, lizards, and unique plants. A 30-minute drive away, Little Crystal Creek offers an idyllic setting with crystal-clear pools, smooth rocks, and a very photogenic old stone bridge.
📍 Dunk Island
1h-1h15 from Cairns