The ultimate guide to Dunk Island

How to get there | Accommodation | Top things to do

Looking for a quintessential tropical island getaway in nature? Lying amid the vibrant waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Dunk Island is a gorgeous haven within the Family Islands Group, just off the coast of Mission Beach in North Queensland’s Cassowary Coast.

Dunk Island ticks all the boxes: sandy beaches, rocky shores, fringing reefs perfect for snorkelling, and a lush rainforest interior laced with picturesque walking tracks to explore.

How to get to Dunk Island

Dunk Island is best reached by your own boat or the Dunk Island Ferry. As of 2023, there's a new fast-cat ferry providing the return transfers from Clump Point Boat Ramp near Mission Beach, taking around 20 minutes each way. Arriving at Dunk Island is part of the adventure, and it’s a scenic little journey that treats you to panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands.

If you’re taking your own boat, the main anchorage area on Dunk Island is in Brammo Bay – just make sure you enter carefully, as the fringing reef spreads deep into the bay.

Dunk Island does have its own tiny airstrip, but it’s currently out of action to the public.

How long to spend on Dunk Island

Being a stone's throw away from the mainland, Dunk Island is the perfect destination for an unforgettable day trip to dip your toes into the island's wonders. But if you have the luxury of time, extending your stay is definitely worth it to unlock a treasure trove of experiences, from spotting nocturnal wildlife to taking the time to truly unwind in nature.

Accommodation on Dunk Island

Looking to explore Dunk Island for more than just a day? You’ll find no less than nine campsites in the national park with facilities including toilets, showers, picnic tables, barbecues, and drinking water.

You’ll need to reserve and pay for a camping permit, which is currently managed by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council. Head over to our Dunk Island camping guide for everything else you need to know.

The resort on Dunk Island, which sits in the main bay, took a serious hit from Cyclone Yasi in 2011 and was nearly destroyed. Now, it sits abandoned except for the central building which still hosts special events and weddings. However, the island was purchased in July 2022 with plans to repair and reopen the resort, so watch this space.

Given the above, aside from camping, there’s no accommodation on Dunk Island. However, if you do prefer four solid walls there’s plenty in nearby Mission Beach, including Dunk Island View Caravan Park.

Top things to do on Dunk Island

Explore the rainforest

Delve into Dunk Island's verdant heart on a rainforest walk and wander along its winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and ancient flora. There are two trails leading from the main pier, past camping areas, the old airstrip, a stretch of white beach, and the old resort, before branching off into dense rainforest trails.

Hike to Mount Kootaloo (Kataloo)

For breathtaking vistas, look no further than the highest point on Dunk Island – Mount Kootaloo (sometimes spelled Mount Kataloo). Positioned at a lofty 271 meters, the lookout perches atop this scenic hill, offering unparalleled views.

Embark on the trail that extends from the edge of Brammo Bay Beach, stretching for two kilometers until you reach the remnants of a World War Two Radar Station. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular vista of the Family Islands group to the north. You can continue on the Island circuit track, an 11-kilometre, 3-hour walk that winds down to Palm Valley, across to Coconut Beach, and back to the spit.

Make the most of Muggy Muggy Beach

Dunk Island’s crystalline waters make for an aquatic escapade to remember. Snorkel alongside dazzling coral gardens alongside a kaleidoscope of marine creatures, or paddle a kayak along the coast, tracing the contours of secluded bays and mangrove-lined estuaries.

One of the best spots is Muggy Muggy Beach, located just around the corner from the main resort beach on Brammo Bay. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Muggy Muggy is your spot. It's tucked away, quieter, and perfect for swimming and snorkeling without the crowds. Picture hanging palms swaying gently, adding to the serene tropical feel.

Swim at the sand spit

The sand spit on Dunk Island is like something out of a dream – easily one of the best places to take a dip with its lack of rocks and crystal-clear water. Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of sea turtles gracefully gliding past. It's an ideal spot for capturing some spectacular photos.

Explore Mound Island (Purtaboi)

As you set foot on Dunk Island, you might catch sight of a quaint rocky islet called Mound Island, snugly resting just beyond Brammo Bay. Known to the Indigenous people as Purtaboi, this little gem beckons exploration. You can easily kayak or boat over, but bear in mind it's a haven for nesting birds. To safeguard their habitat, stepping onto the island from October 1st to March 31st is a no-go. As part of the Family Islands National Park, Dunk is a birdwatcher's paradise, a haven for many avian species that call its shores home.

Plan your visit

Before setting off on your Dunk Island adventure, here are a few tips to ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience:

• Timing: Remember you’ll need to plan to visit Dunk Island between April 1st and September 30th as part of its bird nesting protection program. The bonus is this time of year means no stingers, and warm, predictable weather.
• Typically, during these drier winter months, temperatures hover between 25-28 degrees Celsius, with water temperatures averaging around 23 degrees.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing, insect repellent, and remember sturdy footwear for exploring the island's diverse terrain.
• Help preserve Dunk Island's natural beauty and cultural heritage by following designated trails, minimising waste, and respecting Indigenous traditions.

Captivated by the Cassowary Coast? Here’s how to spend 72 hours in Mission Beach.