Top 10 swimming spots in the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory has more than its fair share of pristine waterholes. Swim under one of the majestic waterfalls in the Top End or soak up the sun on a spectacular inland beach in the Red Centre.

With so many options, choosing the Northern Territory’s top 10 best swimming locations is a challenge. The NT is dotted with gorges, lagoons, waterfalls, thermal springs and canyons within reach by car or on a day tour from Darwin or Alice Springs.

Here are the top 10 to explore.

Remember, conditions and access to parks in the NT change seasonally and can be subject to closure at short notice. Check the NT Parks and Kakadu Access Report for updates and road conditions on the Road Reports website before heading out.

1. Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park

Follow the stairway leading down through tropical rainforest to a massive pool at Florence Falls, where you can swim under a breathtaking waterfall.

Man sitting in front of Florence Falls — Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park

2. Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park

A series of cascading waterfalls – relax on one of the rock shelves or launch into a deeper pool to enjoy a natural spa at Buley Rockhole.

Woman swimming at Buley Rockhole — Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park

3. Maguk, Kakadu National Park

Well worth the hike over the riverbed. It’s easy to swim and sit all day around the edges of the natural pool and admire the view of the waterfall fanning over the ferns and into the water below.

Two men swimming at Maguk — Maguk, Kakadu National Park

4. Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell Ranges

Enjoy a picnic on the sandy beach and look up towards the top of the cliffs. Plunge into the cool water for an invigorating swim at this natural waterhole near Alice Springs.

Group swimming at Ellery Creek — Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell Ranges

5. Redbank Gorge, West MacDonnell Ranges

Swim or float through the gorge to take in the view of the towering cliffs or relax under a gum tree along the sandy bank of Redbank Gorge.

A couple about to swim at Redbank Gorge — Redbank Gorge, West MacDonnell Ranges

6. Darwin Waterfront

With easy access, embrace Darwin’s endless summer with a splash in the waterfront’s beach lagoon and wave pool.

7. Bitter Springs, Katherine region

The warm, crystalline waters of the natural thermal pool will soothe aches and pains after a long day on the road.

Mataranka Thermal Pool — Bitter Springs, Katherine region

8. Ormiston Gorge, West MacDonnell Ranges

Swim away the heat of the day in cool waters surrounded by rugged scenery of the Outback.

Couple enjoying summer at Ormiston Gorge — Ormiston Gorge, West MacDonnell National Park

9. Leilyn/Edith Falls, Katherine region

Located in Nitmiluk National Park, enjoy a dip in the natural pool fringed with pandanus plants at the base of a brilliant waterfall.

Sunrise at Edith Falls — Leilyn/Edith Falls, Katherine region

10. Katherine Hot Springs

Make the most of your trip to Katherine with a dip in the emerald pools of Katherine Hot Springs – perfect for a picnic and swim.

Swimming at Katherine Hot Springs — Katherine Hot Springs, Katherine

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