Best Waterfalls in the Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is home to some of Australia's most dramatic waterfalls — thundering cascades plunging into crystal-clear plunge pools surrounded by ancient sandstone and monsoon forest. Our pick of the best, featured spots first and then by distance from Darwin.
15 locations · Featured first, then closest to Darwin · Updated September 2026
1
Berry Springs Nature Park
Crystal-clear spring-fed pools shaded by monsoon forest. One of the few guaranteed croc-free swimming spots near Darwin. Three interconnected pools with varying depths — perfect for families.
57km50 minFree
2
Florence Falls
Twin-stream waterfall plunging into a deep, croc-free plunge pool surrounded by monsoon forest. 135 steps lead down to paradise. Litchfield's crown jewel.
115km1h 50minFree
3
Gunlom Falls
Kakadu's best-kept secret. The infinity pool at the top has arguably the best view in Australia — swim to the edge and look out over endless bushland.
201km2h 31min
4
Edith Falls (Leliyn)
Stunning natural pool at the base of a waterfall surrounded by pandanus palms. The upper pool is reached via a scenic 2.6km walk through savanna woodland — both pools safe for swimming in dry season.
292km3h 10minFree
5
Waterfront Artificial Beach
Cool off at Waterfront Artificial Beach in the Darwin region. The NT's swimming holes are nature's infinity pools — spring-fed, crystal clear, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in Australia. Check signage for croc safety. in Darwin.
1km1 min
6
Darwin Waterfront Wave Lagoon
A man-made wave pool at Darwin Waterfront generating waves up to 1.7m high. Safe swimming — no crocs, no stingers, lifeguards on duty. Adults $7, kids $5. Open year-round. Also features a free recreation lagoon for calm swimming. Perfect for families.
1km5 min
7
Lameroo Beach
Lameroo Beach is a natural swimming spot in the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, known for its multicultural food scene, stunning sunsets over the Timor Sea, and proximity to world-class national parks. Crystal-clear water, surrounded by monsoon forest or ancient rock — swimming in the Territory is an experience like nowhere else. Always check that the area is croc-monitored before swimming. in Darwin.
1km1 min
8
Waterfront Precinct Recreation Lagoon
Free safe swimming lagoon at Darwin Waterfront — no crocs, no stingers. Calm water perfect for kids. Open year-round. Adjacent to restaurants and Wave Lagoon.
1km5 min
9
Wave Lagoon Darwin
Darwin's only wave pool — croc-free, chlorinated, and right on the waterfront. Waves every 20 minutes. Adjacent to restaurants, bars, and the recreation lagoon.
2km5 min$7/adult
10
Wagait Beach (Mandorah)
Beach community across the harbour from Darwin, accessible by the Mandorah ferry from Cullen Bay. Quiet beach, mangrove boardwalk, and a genuine escape from Darwin's pace. Check stinger season before swimming.
3km20 min ferry
11
Mindil Beach
Mindil Beach is a natural swimming spot in the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, known for its multicultural food scene, stunning sunsets over the Timor Sea, and proximity to world-class national parks. Crystal-clear water, surrounded by monsoon forest or ancient rock — swimming in the Territory is an experience like nowhere else. Always check that the area is croc-monitored before swimming. in Darwin.
3km2 min
12
Cullen Beach
Cullen Beach is a natural swimming spot in the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, known for its multicultural food scene, stunning sunsets over the Timor Sea, and proximity to world-class national parks. Crystal-clear water, surrounded by monsoon forest or ancient rock — swimming in the Territory is an experience like nowhere else. Always check that the area is croc-monitored before swimming. in Darwin.
3km2 min
13
Darwin Swimming Pool (Parap)
Darwin Swimming Pool (Parap) is located in Darwin's tropical setting — think markets at sunset, waterfront dining, and the kind of multicultural energy that makes the Top End capital unlike anywhere else in Australia. Easy to reach from Darwin, this is genuine Territory — ancient landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and the kind of experiences that change the way you see Australia. Check conditions before visiting, carry water, and respect the land.
3km5 min
14
Fannie Bay Beach
Sheltered beach in Darwin's inner suburbs, patrolled Monday to Wednesday 2-6pm during dry season (June-September). Close to the Museum & Art Gallery of NT. Good for kids due to calm waters. Spectacular sunsets. Croc and stinger nets installed seasonally.
4km8 min
15
Bundilla Beach
Bundilla Beach is a natural swimming spot in the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, known for its multicultural food scene, stunning sunsets over the Timor Sea, and proximity to world-class national parks. Crystal-clear water, surrounded by monsoon forest or ancient rock — swimming in the Territory is an experience like nowhere else. Always check that the area is croc-monitored before swimming. in Darwin.
4km3 min