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Perfect island holiday

Jack Broadhurst

Thursday, February 11, 2010

© The Cairns Post

 

<strong>Poolside panorama:</strong> Enjoy the views across to Mission Beach from a deckchair alongside the Dunk Island beach. Picture: John Wright

Poolside panorama: Enjoy the views across to Mission Beach from a deckchair alongside the Dunk Island beach. Picture: John Wright

DUNK Island, located only 10 minutes via water taxi from Mission Beach, can comfortably boast one of the most versatile holiday experiences in Tropical North Queensland.

The island has a staggering array of activities to suit almost every taste and all but the most demanding holidaymakers will find something to do.

Those who can’t do without a weekly hit of golf won’t be disappointed by the island’s nine-hole golf course, complete with rainforest boardwalks and views over the Coral Sea.

There also is plenty to satisfy the sports fans out there, with tennis, squash, basketball and badminton among the list of complementary sporting activities on offer.

There are guided horse riding tours for those keen on something adventurous and children will love the friendly barnyard residents at the fully-functional Coonangalbah Farm.

There’s an island-walking circuit for the more spirited walkers, which takes in magnificent views south over the Hinchinbrook Passage before returning to the resort via the island’s southern beaches. The walk takes between one and three hours, depending on your fitness.

The Dunk Island experience wouldn’t be complete without the obligatory water sports. Guests can hire jet skis and motorised dinghies, both of which are perfect for getting out to Dunk’s beautiful secluded beaches for a spot of snorkelling. There also are guided sea kayak tours.

Set among manicured lawns and perfectly landscaped gardens, Dunk Island’s Spa of Peace and Plenty provides the perfect antidote to Dunk’s action-packed days. Guests can submit to sumptuous spa treatments including rejuvenating skin therapies, facials, milk baths and their Signature Body Ritual.

The comprehensive range of activities on Dunk Island is matched only by the food and beverage options on offer.

The island is well-serviced by a number of world-class eateries including the beachfront Asian Noodle Bar, the Jetty Cafe for quick meals on the go or the Terrace and Beachcomber restaurants for lazy breakfasts and intimate dinners. Each eatery has its own distinct vibe so make sure you try them all before you settle on a favourite.

The drinks also come thick and fast around the island, with beachfront service from The Plantation Bar or poolside cocktails from The Pool Bar. The Plantation Bar also serves the tastiest mojito ever produced outside of Cuba, and offers cocktail classes at sunset.

Dunk’s friendly staff also can arrange for activities away from the island such as fishing charters, skydiving, helicopter tours and Reef trips.

If you’re looking for the perfect base for exploring the richly diverse holiday paradise of Mission Beach you can’t go past beautiful Dunk Island.

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