Welcome to Mandorah! This little slice of paradise tucked away in the Northern Territory of Australia is home to some of the most beautiful scenery around. From stunning beaches and lush rainforests to an array of outdoor activities and delicious local cuisine, Mandorah is the perfect day trip from Darwin.
If you’re looking for an adventure, you’ve definitely come to the right place. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller returning for some rest and relaxation, this guide has something for everyone to help plan your trip. . Read on for all your must-do activities when visiting Mandorah!
Want to know all about planning your trip to Mandorah? Scroll to the bottom of the post to see which site locals use to book hotels, where trusted travelers book tours, and how to find the best flight deals. Or Click Here to be taken there now.
Top Things to Do in Mandorah
The Mandorah Jetty
One of the most iconic spots in the Northern Territory is the Mandorah jetty. It’s an absolute must for your list of things to do. Take a stroll along the jetty and enjoy the beautiful views of the harbour. You won’t want to miss it!
This historic structure, which was built in the 1960s, has seen plenty of visitors over the years and continues to offer a picturesque spot for fishing, sightseeing and photography. While you’re exploring, keep an eye out for local wildlife like pelicans and sea eagles.
So why not make a day out of it? Pack a lunch and bring your camera, you’ll be amazed by how awesome it will be to have lunch or what you might capture while enjoying nature’s beauty.
Go Fishing
If you ask any local in Mandorah what you should do for a day out in their town, the answer will no doubt include going fishing at the jetty. It’s a great spot to catch some sardines, mackerel and so much more.
You can rent a boat from one of the many boat hiring companies, who can take you out exploring, or drop you off at one of their secret fishing spots. Don’t forget to bring your camera, it’s not just about reeling in your catch you could also come across some breathtaking scenery or wildlife around these parts!
And if boating isn’t your thing, no problem. You can also try out some shore based activities like bird watching. There really is something for everyone here in Mandorah NT!
Take a Nature Walk
Looking for some fresh air and stunning views? Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just want a leisurely stroll, you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of nature as you explore the area. You might see wallabies, goannas, and if you’re lucky, even a crocodile on the beach!
On this walk, the sweeping views of the Arafura Sea from atop some rocks will sure to take your breath away. Grab your walking boots and explore what Mandorah has to offer. Just remember to bring water and follow all safety instructions before embarking on your adventure!
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Grab a Cold One at a Local Pub
If you’re looking for a local spot to get together with friends, the Cox Country Club in Wagait Beach is the go-to place! This quintessential outback pub has been serving up cold beers and hot meals to the locals, and it’s a great spot to let your hair down after a day of exploring.
Where to Stay in Mandorah
Camping in Mandorah
When visiting Mandorah, take the opportunity to relax and enjoy a night under the stars. Mandorah is home to some amazing outdoor accommodation options that are perfect for getting away from it all.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded rustic camp, a glamping option with all the comforts of home, or an iconic beachside stay, Mandorah has you covered! Hokeys Camp Site Wagait Beach is a local favourite, offering shady powered and unpowered sites just a short walk from the beach. It’s a laid-back, pet-friendly spot where you can unwind, listen to the ocean, and enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor living.
Mandorah’s peaceful setting, with sweeping sea views and vibrant sunsets over Darwin Harbour, makes it ideal for a relaxing overnight stay. Accommodation options blend perfectly with the natural environment, offering a true escape from the city while still being easily accessible by ferry or road.
Glamping and Wagait Beach Accommodations
If camping is not quite your style but you still want to experience the great outdoors, why not try glamping? There are some great glamping spots in the area where you can park your campervan from Aspen Holiday Parks and settle in without sacrificing comfort. Enjoy the fresh air, open skies, and beautiful surrounds, without the need to pitch a tent or rough it.
How to Get to Mandorah
Mandorah lies on the western side of Darwin Harbour on the Cox Peninsula, offering a peaceful retreat just across the water from the city. There are two main ways to reach this quiet coastal spot.
By Car:
The first is by road: a scenic 1.5-hour drive that loops around the harbour, taking you through bushland and small communities along the way. It’s a great option if you have your own vehicle and want to explore the wider area at your own pace.
By Ferry:
The second (and by far faster and more convenient) option is to hop on the Sealink Ferry from Cullen Bay Marina in Darwin. Often referred to as the Mandorah Ferry, this passenger service takes just 15 minutes and runs several times a day. Departing from the Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, the ferry offers a quick and scenic ride across Darwin Harbour, delivering you directly to the Mandorah Ferry Jetty. It’s a relaxing way to travel and perfect for a day trip or weekend escape from the city.
The Best Time to Visit Mandorah
If you’re looking for the best times to visit Mandorah and make the most of your stay, you’re in luck. Mandorah has something special all year round!
During the wet season from November to April, Mandorah experiences balmy temperatures and sunny sunshine just about every day of the year, perfect for exploring! During this time of year, visitors can take advantage of some incredible sunsets.
But the dry season from May to October can offer cooler temps, lower humidity, and little to no rain, perfect for heading out on long nature walks.
With its natural beauty, unique attractions and laid-back atmosphere, Mandorah, is a must see destination in the Northern Territory.
*Cover image by @kellyd_wildlife
We would love your feedback on this page – please comment below if you’ve been to Mandorah!
Norther would like to invite you to explore more about the beauty of Mandorah here. And… as always you can get more inspiration for other Destinations & National Parks to visit by following @northerhq or get your Mandorah daily fix @mandorahnt.
Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. Cover More is our favourite travel insurance provider to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
