Discover the Kennedy Walking Track: a stunning 4 km one-way trail from South Mission Beach to Kennedy Bay, blending rainforest, beach, and island vistas — ideal for families, nature lovers, and casual hikers in Tropical North Queensland.
Why Hike the Kennedy Walking Track?
- Coastal rainforest meets tropical beach — walk through lush jungle, along palm-fringed shores, and over rocky headlands.
- Spectacular island views — the Family Group of Islands (including Dunk Island) is visible from clear lookout points.
- Wildlife-rich environment — spot cassowaries, wallabies, butterflies, skinks, and even turtles, dugongs, or dolphins if you’re lucky.
Trail Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~4 km one-way, ~8 km return |
| Estimated Time | 2–3 hours return depending on pace |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate (some boardwalks, dirt tracks, stairs, and rocky sections) |
| Type | One-way coastal walk, return via same route |
| Start/End | South Mission Beach boat ramp → Kennedy Bay |
What You’ll Encounter Along the Way
1. Boardwalk & Lovers Bay
Begin with an easy boardwalk through rainforest fringes to Lovers Bay, featuring interpretive signage and picnic seating.
2. Dunk Island Lookout
Continue through shady forest and stairs to a lookout offering breathtaking panoramas of Dunk Island and its neighbouring isles.
3. Lugger Bay to Mije Creek
Descend to picturesque Lugger Bay, then walk the muddy creek trail — perfect for mangrove and mudflat spotting.
4. Morgan’s Lookout
A short climb leads to Morgan’s Lookout (2.7 km in), with seating and a striking coastal view.
5. Turtle Bay & Kennedy Bay
Descend to Turtle Bay, then follow headland tracks to Kennedy Bay, where you’ll find picnic facilities and sheltered beach areas.
6. Optional Extension to Hull River
Extremely keen walkers can continue along Kennedy Bay to the Hull River mouth, adding another 4 km round trip.
Wildlife & Nature Highlights
Expect to see:
- Cassowaries — although sightings are rare, tracks and droppings are common.
- Butterflies, skinks & orb spiders — catch flashes of colour and intricate web art.
- Marine life — pool your eyes to spot turtles, dugongs, dolphins around island vista points.
How to Get There & Trail Tips
Trailhead: South Mission Beach boat ramp on Kennedy Esplanade, Mission Beach QLD 4852
Facilities:
- Free parking, picnic spots, and toilets at the start
- Picnic and toilet facilities at Kennedy Bay
Best Walking Times:
- Ideal during dry season (May–October)
- Avoid mid-high tide when crossing Lugger Bay; check tide charts
Trail Safety Tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, insect repellent & sun protection
- Stay on marked paths
- Wildlife alert: watch for cassowaries, snakes, and crocodile warnings near waterways
🌴 Extend Your FNQ Adventure via Dunk Island Adventures
Make it a memorable day:
- 🛥️ Dunk Island ferry services — take a beach and reef day trip
- 🏕️ Beachfront camping on Dunk Island — unwind in true island style
- 🚤 Mission Beach & Dunk Island tours — explore marine life, rainforest and more
Why Hike the Kennedy Walking Track?
It’s one of the region’s top-rated experiences — “spectacular track, especially the portion on the beach” with a 4.8/5 rating on TripAdvisor. Perfect for moderation: amazing views, easy access, and rich biodiversity without needing serious fitness or gear.
Final Tips & Planning
- Time: Set aside half a day (allow 2–4 hours including stops)
- Best seasons: Dry May–October
- Extend it: Combine with ferry trips, camping, or reef adventures for a full FNQ getaway
Ready to lace up your walking shoes? The Kennedy Walking Track awaits — rainforest magic, coastal vistas, and island breezes included.
Contact Information:
Email: info@missionbeachtourism.com
Website: www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/walking-tracks
Address: Kennedy Esplanade, South Mission Beach, Queensland 4852, Australia
