Darwin Swimming Holes
Berry Springs Nature Park
Address: Cox Peninsular Road, Berry Springs 0837
Phone: 08 8999 4555
Times: 8.00am – 6.30pm
Admission: Free
Located just under an hour away is the Berry Springs Nature Park and one of the most refreshing swimming spots you’ll ever find. Take some goggles and have a dip and you will come face to face with many native fish and other aquatic life. There are shady picnic areas with barbecues and a walking track. There is an information centre where you can study up on the history of the area and its fauna and flora. Most significantly, during World War II troops used this spot as a rest and recreation camp. You can still see the remains of the huts around the main pool.
Buley Rockhole
Address: Litchfield National Park, Batchelor, 0845
Phone: 08 8999 4555
Admission: Free
Buley Rockhole is a popular swimming spot located in Litchfield National Park. Cool off here in one of the pools after your busy day of sightseeing around the park. There are cascading pools and numerous pools surrounded by beautiful Aussie bush.
Casuarina Coastal Reserve
Address: Trower Road, Casuarina
Phone: 08 8999 4555
Admission: Free
The Casuarina Coastal Reserve protects around 1500ha of coastal habitats in the Darwin Area. One highlight is an 8km stretch of white sandy beaches, however, swimmers swim at own risk. Swimming is not permitted from October to April due to box jellyfish. Towards the north of the strip of beach is a nudist section which is clearly signposted. Behind the beach is beautiful mangroves and paperbark forests. Off the coast you will find Old Man Rock which is a registered Aboriginal sacred site.
Lake Alexander
Address: East Point Reserve, Alex Fong Lim Drive, Fannie Bay 0820
Phone: 08 8930 0574
Admission: Free
Lake Alexander caters to a great day spent with the whole family. There is year round safe swimming, walking and cycling paths, free barbeque facilities and quiet picnic areas. There’s also a playground to keep the kids occupied!
Lake Bennet
Address: Chinner Road, Batchelor
Phone: 08 8976 0960
Email: lakebennett@octa4.net.au
Lake Bennet is a man made lake located just 87 kilometres south of Darwin. It is perfect for a day of swimming, canoeing or fishing – there is plenty of Barramundi to try your hand at. The resort also boats a driving range, mini golf circuit, mountain biking, bushwalking, birdwatching and great accommodation facilities including a licensed restaurant and bar.
Manton Dam Recreation Area
Address: Stuart Highway, Darwin
Phone: 08 8999 4555
Admission: Free
Manton Dam was built in 1942 as a reliable water source for Darwin. Now, it is a popular recreation area popular for swimming, fishing, water skiing and power boating. It’s a great family day out with plenty of BBQ facilities , picnic spots and shade.
Wangi Falls
Address: Litchfield National Park, Batchelor
Phone: 08 8999 4555
Admission: Free
Just an hour out of the heart of Darwin is Litchefield National Park and it’s most popular attraction, Wangi Falls. Wangi Falls is a beautiful swimming hole with falls flowing in from high above and surrounded by lush rainforest. Due to strong currents the pools may be closed between October and March so it is best you give them a call beforehand.