To explore the area without restrictions a car, although not essential, is a valuable tool to give you freedom to reach all of the stunning beaches, walking trails and creeks of Mission Beach.
Many car rental agencies operate in both Cairns and Townsville. Sugarland Car Rentals also has a depot in Mission Beach. Tel: 07 4068 8272.
The drive from Cairns to Sanctuary is 130 kilometers and takes about 2 hours by either bus or car. If travelling by car, you will find a map to direct you to Sanctuary here . When you arrive in the carpark, you will notice a shelter with a telephone in it, lift the handset and a 4WD vehicle will come down to transport you and your luggage to Reception.
If you just have light things, then the sign that says ‘Forest Walk’ will lead you via a beautiful rainforest walk to Reception. The distance is 600m and will take about 10 minutes but please don’t attempt in the dark or if you have heavy luggage.
Please let us know how you will be arriving in Mission Beach and your expected time of arrival.
Please arrive at Sanctuary in daylight where possible, to enable you to get your bearings in the rainforest before it comes alive by night. You may arrive anytime after 10 am. Your room will be available by 2 pm, though earlier if possible.
Last orders for the restaurant are taken at 8.00 pm (please telephone ahead if you plan to arrive after dark and wish to dine in the restaurant).
Last Check in is at 9.00 pm.
If traveling by bus, Greyhound coaches (tel: 13 1499) stop at the Mission Beach Central (also known as Wongaling Beach) terminal. Sanctuary is about 15km’s north of the coach terminal. The Mission Beach taxi (tel: 04 2968 9366) can transfer you to Sanctuary at a cost of approx. $50.00. It is generally advisable to call them beforehand so they can meet you when the bus arrives.