The Cassowary Coast’s attractions don’t change dramatically from year to year — the reef, the rainforest, Dunk Island, and the beaches are constants. But 2026 has brought a handful of genuinely new things worth knowing about: a new walking track, cultural events, and a race calendar that’s giving the region a new dimension as an adventure and event destination.
1. Walk the New Kurrimine Beach Foreshore Track
Kurrimine Beach, about 40 minutes north of Mission Beach, has always been one of those quiet spots that locals know about and visitors often overlook. In 2026, it has a new 450-metre foreshore walking track extension that makes it easier to explore the beachfront on foot.
Kurrimine Beach is a calm, family-friendly spot with a boat ramp and access to the outer reef — popular with local anglers and families looking for a beach without the crowds. The new walking track makes it a more complete visitor experience.
Good for: Families, walkers, those looking for a quieter beach alternative to Mission Beach.
Getting there: Kurrimine Beach is approximately 35km north of Mission Beach via the Bruce Highway.
2. Hike Mt Kootaloo on Dunk Island
Dunk Island has a network of walking tracks, and the climb to Mt Kootaloo — the island’s highest point — is the most rewarding. The track takes you through dense rainforest before opening up to views across the Coral Sea, back to the Cassowary Coast, and on a clear day, out towards the outer reef.
The hike is accessible as part of a day trip from Mission Beach. Taking the ferry over in the morning, hiking Mt Kootaloo, spending time at the Beach Club, then returning on an afternoon service makes for a very full day.
Difficulty: Moderate. Wear proper footwear and bring water.
Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours return from the Spit.
Good for: Active travellers, hikers, those on a full-day Dunk Island trip.
3. See the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow in the Tropics
The Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow travels to regional venues across Australia, and in 2026 it is visiting the Cassowary Coast region — including a show in Innisfail.
The roadshow brings a rotating lineup of Melbourne Comedy Festival performers to regional audiences — typically four or five acts performing shorter sets in a touring format. For a region that doesn’t often get this type of live entertainment, it’s a proper night out.
Good for: Those staying in the region for a week or more who want to mix outdoor activities with evening entertainment.
4. Enter the Ona Mission Multisport Event
The Cassowary Coast is developing a profile as an endurance and multisport event destination, and the Ona Mission event is one of the key races on the regional calendar.
A multisport event set against the backdrop of the Cassowary Coast — rainforest, coastline, and the general visual drama of the region — is a compelling proposition for event travellers.
Good for: Runners, triathletes, event travellers, those looking to combine a training trip with a holiday.
5. Run the Paradise Run in Mission Beach
The Paradise Run is one of the events that featured in the “Meet Us in Mission” festival in April 2026, and it forms part of the growing race calendar that is giving Mission Beach a new identity as an events destination.
Running a race with the Coral Sea on one side and World Heritage rainforest on the other is a genuine point of difference. The event attracts both competitive runners and those treating it as a reason to visit the region.
Good for: Runners of all levels, event travellers, those looking for a structured reason to visit the region.
What Else Is On in 2026
- Cassowary Coast Business Awards Gala — 15 May 2026, Innisfail Shire Hall
- Feast of the Senses — the region’s flagship food festival with a new three-year sponsorship arrangement
- Tully River white water rafting — particularly spectacular during and just after the wet season
- Whale watching — humpback whales pass through the region between June and September
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best new things to do on the Cassowary Coast in 2026?
Notable new experiences include the extended Kurrimine Beach foreshore walking track, the Mt Kootaloo hike on Dunk Island, the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow visiting Innisfail, the Ona Mission multisport event, and the Paradise Run in Mission Beach.
Is Kurrimine Beach worth visiting?
Yes. Kurrimine Beach is a quiet, family-friendly spot about 35km north of Mission Beach with good swimming, a boat ramp, and access to the outer reef. The new 2026 foreshore walking track extension makes it easier to explore on foot.
Can you hike on Dunk Island?
Yes. Dunk Island has a network of walking tracks including the climb to Mt Kootaloo. The hike takes approximately 2–3 hours return and offers views across the Coral Sea. It is accessible as part of a day trip from Mission Beach.
