Bus
Driving
Cannonvale to Mission Beach
Updated: 30 May 2026
Mission Beach is a beautiful coastal destination located between Townsville and Cairns. From Cannonvale, you can drive north along the Bruce Highway, a journey of approximately 5 hours. Alternatively, take a long-distance bus service like Greyhound, which stops in the nearby town of Tully. This route takes you through lush sugar cane fields and tropical landscapes. It is a perfect stopover for those traveling between the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.
Total Distance: Driving distance 400 km; Air distance 350 km.
Fastest Way
Driving your own vehicle.
Cheapest Way
Bus travel with advance booking.
Compare Cannonvale to Mission Beach Routes
|
Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours | 5 hours |
| Avg Price | $60 - $120 | $80 - $150 |
| Operator | Greyhound Australia | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | Bruce Highway to Tully, then local transfer. | Bruce Highway (A1). |
| Tip | Greyhound drops off at Tully; arrange a local shuttle to Mission Beach. | Stop in Townsville for a break and lunch at the Strand. |
Travel Tips
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Stinger SeasonAlways wear a stinger suit when swimming in the ocean during summer.
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BookingBook your water taxi to Dunk Island in advance during peak season.
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WildlifeDrive slowly on roads near rainforests to avoid hitting cassowaries.
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DiningTry the local cafes in Wongaling Beach for fresh, tropical food.
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Sun ProtectionThe tropical sun is intense; wear a hat and sunscreen at all times.
Safety Tips
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Road SafetyThe Bruce Highway has many roadworks; stay alert and follow speed limits.
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Crocodile AwarenessDo not swim in rivers or creeks; stay on designated beach areas.
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WeatherBe prepared for heavy rain during the wet season.
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EmergencyKeep a mobile phone charged; reception is good but can be spotty in remote areas.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train?No, the Queensland Rail line does not stop directly in Mission Beach.
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How do I get from Tully to Mission Beach?You can take a local taxi or pre-booked shuttle service.
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Is it safe to swim?Only in designated areas and during the safe season (winter).
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What is the best time to visit?The dry season (May-October) offers the best weather.
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Are there crocodiles?Yes, they inhabit the local waterways; always heed warning signs.
Quick Info
- From Cannonvale, Queensland, Australia
- To Mission Beach, Queensland, Australia
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to October for dry, sunny weather.
Things to Do in Mission Beach
1
Dunk Island
Take a water taxi from Mission Beach to Dunk Island for hiking and snorkeling.
2
Cassowary Spotting
Visit the Licuala State Forest to see the endangered Southern Cassowary in the wild.
3
Beach Walks
Enjoy the 14km of golden sand that makes up the four villages of Mission Beach.
4
Skydiving
Mission Beach is famous for its beach landing skydives with views of the reef.
Tags
Cannonvale to Mission Beach
travel to Mission Beach
driving to Mission Beach
bus to Mission Beach
Queensland coast travel
Mission Beach guide
Whitsundays to Mission Beach
tropical North Queensland
