Local Picks

Expect pink, orange and blue hues in your sunsets at the beach out front of Sully's Beach House. The view to the surrouding islands is incredible. Big beach front allows for a game of footy or Finska. Enjoy a platter and a few drinks with family and friends. 

Walk across the road and use the pathway to the beachfront.

Stand on the beach out the front of Sully's and looking north you may see the stinger net and patrolled area of the beach. An easy one kilometre walk takes you up to the caravan park area, with the nearby boat hire, surf lifesaving hut and the stinger enclosure (November to May). Continue walking further north and you will walk beside forest and eventually reach the creek. The creek can be crossed at low tide, depending on the current creek sand conditions, and from there it is possible to walk or ride all the way to North Mission and beyond.

Looking south from the beach out the front of Sully's you will see the Mission Beach boat ramp. It is about a 1 kilometre walk, along the beautiful beach. Watch the shallows for sealife!

One of our favourite walks, the Kennedy Walking Track runs from South Mission to Kennedy Bay, passing the 1848 landing site of explorer Edmund Kennedy. It begins on an easy boardwalk before becoming more adventurous with steps, forest paths, sand and rocks. The trail follows the coastline through rainforest, beaches and rocky headlands, with sweeping views of the Family Group of Islands and chances to spot cassowaries, wallabies, turtles, dugongs and dolphins. With extra time, you can continue along Kennedy Bay to the Hull River before returning the same way. The track suits most walkers, though the second half includes more stairs and some rock‑hopping. To access the trail, simply walk from Sully’s south to the boat ramp at the start of the track. 

South of Sully's, a short drive or walk will take you to Elandra, a perfect place for an afternoon cocktail and snack or a special occasion dinner.

Head north towards the caravan park, and you will find our local friendly dining spot, Tuskers. Renowed among locals for good food and good vibes with live music on Sunday afternoons during the winter months. A good spot to grab a burger, pizza or chef special when you don't feel like cooking.

North Mission Beach is a vibrant centre with shops, restaurants and bars. The Rotary Club holds Sunday markets regularly in the local park. We recommend a stroll through the shops and gallery, along with brunch!

Mission Beach has many options for all levels of dining, including: 

South Mission: Elandra, Tuskers

North Mission: Shanti Cafe, Plenty Restaurant, Charlie's, Cafe Johalia, Mission Beach Tavern

Wongaling: Scotty's

The Lacey Creek Circuit winds through Djiru National Park, showcasing a rich mix of lowland rainforest vegetation. The track crosses several branches of Lacey Creek, where turtles and fish can often be seen in the clear pools below. We often see cassowaries on this trail.

A rewarding four‑kilometre return hike, this rainforest track winds through Clump Mountain National Park to a lookout with spectacular mainland and island views. Walk beside ancient cycads and gaze out at the expansive coastal views. 

To access the trail, drive north from Sully’s Drive to North Mission Beach, then continue 4.6 kilometres toward Bingil Bay to reach the Bicton Hill car park. 

Beside the aquatic centre, you’ll find the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre. Browse works by local artists, including paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards, and unique handmade souvenirs. It’s an easy, enjoyable stop where you can discover a little piece of Mission Beach to take home.  Open daily from 10am to 2pm and staffed by volunteers.

The Helen Wiltshire Gallery is a North Mission Beach favourite, showcasing a beautiful collection of Helen’s original works and prints available for purchase. Browse paintings by local artists and discover a stunning range of jewellery crafted by talented local jewellers. The gallery is open 9.30am to 2pm, Monday to Saturday. 

You spend a lot of time admiring it from afar, so a trip over to Dunk Island is definitely worthwhile. Explore the spit, the beaches, eat at the local cafe (open seasonally), or take on the walk in the National Park. Transport options include the ferry service or boat hire.

Stop at this quaint cafe on the highway between El Arish and Tully for a bite to eat and spend time with the friendly animals.

Silkwood, a small town off the main high, north towards Innisfail, is home to the best pies in the region. Visit the combined Silkwood Butcher and Butcher's Wife's Brew cafe for a real taste of North Queensland. You can grab lunch and purchase meat for your evening BBQ.

On a hot day, an great option for a freshwater swim is Alligators Nest, near Tully. A favourite with locals.