When it comes to picturesque swimming spots, the Northern Territory has you covered. Whether it's the spectacular waterfalls, the soothing thermal springs, or the refreshing outback waterholes, a dip in any of these NT locations will rejuvenate your spirits. To make your decision a little easier, we've handpicked our top 10 favourite spots for a memorable plunge. Get ready to immerse yourself in nature's finest aquatic wonders!
Image Credit: Tourism NT
#1 Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park
Indulge in a day of swimming, picnicking, exploring & diving into the best waterfalls & rockpools within Litchfield National Park. Arguably one of the best-known swimming spots in the Top End, Wangi Falls is renowned for its pristine beauty and size. Two waterfalls cascade over the rocks down to the pool below, surrounded by a lush monsoon rainforest, with various walking paths that let you experience the stunning panoramic views at various lookout points from the top.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Jackson Groves
#2 Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park
Another firm favourite for locals and tourists alike, Florence Falls offers a tranquil, picturesque setting nestled amongst a tropical rainforest. A smaller and more intimate swim than Wangi Falls, you can relax on the ample rock seating in the shallow area to the sound of a cascading waterfall. Florence Falls is open all year round!
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Lucy Ewing
#3 Maguk, Kakadu National Park
Located an hour’s drive south of Cooinda, Maguk is accessed from a 14km four-wheel drive track off the Kakadu Highway, followed by a 1km walk through monsoon forests, crossing Barramundi Creek. Maguk is famous for its pristine natural waterfall and plunge pool at the base of steep gorge walls. You can spot the spangled drongos and rainbow pitas in the rainforest, swim with the black bream in the plunge pool and marvel at the majestic endemic Anbinik trees along the rocky slopes.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Shaana McNaught
#4 Mataranka Thermal Pool & Bitter Springs, Katherine Region
Located in Elsey National Park, the turquoise waters of Mataranka Hot Pools & Bitter Springs are a firm favourite for locals & tourists. Set amongst palms and tropical woodlands in Elsey National Park, these spring-fed thermal pools are an ideal place to relax and unwind after a long drive, or while exploring the national park. There is also a short 500m loop walk available at Bitter Springs for those wanting to explore on foot.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Natalie Sum
#5 Leliyn (Edith Falls), Katherine Region
There’s always refreshing water to enjoy at Leliyn year-round! Leliyn (Edith Falls) lies nestled on the western side of the park, a pleasant 60km drive north of Katherine along the Stuart Highway. This picturesque oasis offers lush, grassy campsites amidst a scenic bush setting, making it the perfect idyllic spot for camping enthusiasts. For those seeking a satisfying meal after a long walk on the Jatbula Trail or a refreshing swim, a well-appointed kiosk awaits, ready to cater to your hunger and cravings. The allure of Leliyn centers around its inviting natural pool, surrounded by paperbark and pandanus trees, providing a serene and refreshing swimming experience throughout most of the year. However, it's essential to note that the pool might be temporarily closed for swimming between November and April due to certain conditions.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Mitch Cox
#6 Wave Lagoon, Darwin
Dive into a world of water-filled excitement at the Wave Lagoon! A palm-fringed swimming pool transforms into a thrilling tube-riding and boogie-boarding paradise as the siren signals the start of the swell. Relax on banana lounges shaded by enormous beach umbrellas or find a cozy spot on the lawn under the cool shade. The kids will have a blast in the wading pools and fountains, while the kiosk ensures the whole family stays refreshed with cold drinks, snacks, and floating fun.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Darwin Waterfront Corportation
#7 Berry Springs, Darwin
Berry Springs offers a tranquil escape just a short drive from Darwin, and is a haven of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. Beyond the refreshing pools, Berry Springs offers a myriad of walking trails that wind their way through the surrounding bushland. Otherwise, just take in the beauty of the surrounding mangrove forests and observe the diverse aquatic life that thrives in these pristine habitats.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Sean Scott
#8 Ormiston Gorge, West MacDonnell Ranges
Located 135 kilometres west of Alice Springs in the West MacDonnell National Park, Ormiston Gorge is the outback’s answer to the beach with sandy banks and the quintessentially Aussie towering gum trees surrounding the still gorge waters. Located in the West MacDonnell National Park, the gorge also contains an interesting variety of native flora and fauna and the Ormiston Pound Walk for a circuit trail exploration of the area. You can explore the area further with the Ormiston Pound Walk - a three-to-four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre to cross the rocky slopes and the flat floor of the pound and back along the gorge via the main waterhole.
Image Credit: Tourism NT & Jess Caldwell + Luke Riddle
#9 Ellery Creek, West MacDonnell Ranges
Ellery Creek is one of the most popular waterholes to visit in the Red Centre for not only its unique setting between two towering red cliffs, carved by thousands of years of floods, but also for a fantastic outback camping, hiking, and swimming experience. Thousands of years of massive floods have carved out this waterhole, which is recognised as an internationally significant geological site. Perhaps take the 3-kilometre Dolomite walk to see the surrounding formations.
Image Credit:Tourism Australia & Nicholas Kavo
#10 Glen Helen Gorge, West MacDonnell Ranges
Glen Helen is yet another beautiful outback gorge, often considered to be one of the most picturesque in the country. Glen Helen campground offers a comfortable camping experience where you can enjoy a cooling dip in the mirror-like water while surrounded by the beauty of the rugged sandstone walls, the local wildlife, and views of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Top it off with a cosy campfire under a starry night sky.
Image Credit:Tourism Australia & Nicholas Kavo
Contact us on 1800 854 897 or deals@ntnow.com.au to find out more.
Important Information: For up to date swimming information and park opening times head to https://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/find-a-park/find-a-park-to-visit | Top End waterholes - some swimming areas are prone to periodic flooding during the Top End’s Tropical Summer. Be sure to check the relevant access reports before visiting. Kakadu National Park: https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/access | Northern Territory Parks & Reserves: https://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/plan-your-visit/check-park-open-darwin
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