Remote, rugged and deeply cultural, Groote Eylandt is home to one of Australia’s most extraordinary island destinations. Sitting quietly in the waters of Groote Eylandt in the Gulf, this remarkable island forms the heart of the Groote Archipelago and is the largest island in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Located off the Top End coast of the Northern Territory, Groote Eylandt offers a rare blend of raw wilderness, rich Aboriginal heritage and world-class adventure.
Part of East Arnhem Land within the broader Arnhem Land region, the island is managed by the Anindilyakwa Land Council, with deep ties to the traditional owners who have lived here for thousands of years. Communities such as Angurugu, Angurungu and Umbakumba provide insight into daily life, while ancient cave paintings, pandanus-lined beaches, winding mangrove creeks and crocodile-filled estuary systems reveal the island’s powerful connection to land and sea.
While modern industry exists through the Groote Eylandt Mining Company (GEMCO) and its long-running mine, Groote Eylandt remains a place of balance — where a strong cultural identity sits alongside contemporary life. From choosing the right accommodation to planning multi-day explorations, visitors are rewarded with a destination that feels untouched, meaningful and unlike anywhere else in Australia.
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The History of Groote Eylandt
Groote Eylandt is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the Anindilyakwa people, who have lived here for over 8,000 years. These Indigenous Australians have a profound connection to the land, expressed through their rich oral traditions, art, and cultural practices.
Fun Facts About Groote Eylandt:
- Groote Eylandt is the fourth largest island in Australia.
- The island was named by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1644.
- Groote Eylandt is rich in manganese, one of the world’s largest deposits.
- The island is home to several species found nowhere else, including the Groote Eylandt Skink.
How to Get From Darwin to Groote Eylandt
Groote Eylandt is located northeast of Darwin, approximately 630 kilometers away. The most convenient way to reach the island is by taking a direct flight from Darwin. The flight takes around 1.5 hours, with one to two flights operating daily. There are one to two flights between Darwin and Groote Eylandt on a daily basis, and a round trip is priced around $750 to $900 AUD.
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Top Things to do on Groote Eylandt
Fishing: World-Class Angling in Pristine Waters
Fishing is the standout drawcard on Groote Eylandt, and for good reason. The island is surrounded by largely untouched coastal systems, creeks and offshore waters that are considered some of the most productive and least pressured fishing grounds in Australia.
Anglers regularly target barramundi in tidal creeks and estuaries, while giant trevally and queenfish are common along rocky headlands and beaches. Offshore, bluewater fishing produces Spanish mackerel, tuna, sailfish and marlin during the right seasons.
Most visitors fish with local operators based around Angurugu, Umbakumba or from the Groote Eylandt Lodge, where guided charters take care of permits, boats and local knowledge.
A fishing permit is required, and it’s important to follow local rules regarding catch limits and sacred areas, as fishing takes place on Aboriginal land.
For ease, we always recommend a guided fishing charter to make sure you’re following these rules and regulations.
Visit Cultural Attractions
A visit to the Anindilyakwa Arts and Cultural Centre is one of the most meaningful experiences on Groote Eylandt.
Located directly across the road from the Groote Eylandt Lodge near Angurugu, the centre showcases contemporary Aboriginal art created by Anindilyakwa artists from across the island.
You’ll find paintings, carvings, woven pandanus baskets and prints, all deeply connected to land, sea and ancestral stories.
Staff are happy to explain the stories behind the artworks, making it an accessible and respectful way to learn about Anindilyakwa culture without needing to travel far or arrange a full tour.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Groote Eylandt’s landscapes are rugged, wild and surprisingly varied. While there are no formal, signposted hiking networks like you’d find in national parks, guided walks and local knowledge-based hikes allow visitors to explore coastal headlands, savannah woodland, rocky escarpments and quiet beaches.
These walks often reveal native wildlife, including wallabies, birdlife and the island’s unique plant species.
Because much of the land is privately owned by traditional owners, hiking should only be done with permission or as part of a guided experience. Local guides know which areas are safe, culturally appropriate and seasonally accessible.
Wet season conditions can make some tracks impassable, while the dry season offers more comfortable temperatures and easier walking. Sturdy footwear, sun protection and plenty of water are essential, as facilities are limited once you leave the main settlements.
Snorkelling and Diving
The surrounding waters of Groote Eylandt are remarkably clear, particularly during the dry season, making snorkelling a rewarding activity for confident swimmers.
Shallow reefs close to shore offer coral formations, colourful reef fish and the occasional sea turtle. Visibility can vary depending on tides and weather, so local advice is invaluable when choosing the best locations and times.
Diving opportunities are more limited and generally arranged through private charters rather than commercial dive shops. Experienced divers may explore offshore reefs and bommies, where marine life is abundant and rarely disturbed.
Due to the island’s remoteness, visitors should bring their own snorkelling or diving equipment and always prioritise safety, especially with strong currents and marine life such as crocodiles present in some areas.
Where to Stay on Groote Eylandt
The most popular place to stay on Groote Eylandt is by far the Groote Eylandt Lodge. With views of the Gulf of Carpentaria, an outdoor pool, a sea-view bar and restaurant, the Groote Eylandt Lodge is located in Alyangula in the North-Western part of Groote Eylandt.
The lodge is located right by the water and offers many amenities like:
- airport transportation
- a fitness center
- Outdoor pool.
All the rooms are large and spacious, and the option for a waterfront room is also available. The lodge’s restaurant, the Seagrass Bar and Restaurant, has a gorgeous view of the gulf as well as meal options for everyone.
Guests can enjoy sitting on their balcony and taking in the sea air. The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, kettle, ironing facilities, and an ensuite bathroom.
The resort is a 15-minute walk from the town centre of Alyangula with local amenities such as a pharmacy, newsagent, Australia Post and a gift shop.
To experience this amazing island, book your stay at Groote Eylandt Lodge.
Travel Tips and FAQs
The Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May to October) offers the best weather on Groote Eylandt, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. However, the wet season (November to April) can bring heavy rains.
Packing Essentials
It’s important to pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy walking shoes for your trip to Groote Eylandt. If you want to test the waters, don’t forget your swimsuit and snorkeling gear!
Weather Conditions
You can generally expect warm temperatures year-round, with daily highs ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The wet season can bring the occasional cyclones.
FAQs:
Do I need a permit to visit Groote Eylandt? Yes, a recreation permit is required. Additional permits are needed for access to specific areas.
How do I get around? Car rentals are available, but booking in advance is recommended. Guided tours offer transportation as well.
Exploring Groote Eylandt is more than a holiday — it’s an adventure of a lifetime that blends nature, culture and adrenaline in equal measure. Known for some of the most diverse fishing grounds in the world, the island’s virtually unfished water attracts anglers chasing sports fishing dreams, from Spanish mackerel and sailfish to marlin and sailfish cruising the pristine bluewater and blue water offshore zones. On land, a guided 4WD adventure reveals sweeping savannah landscapes, pandanus forests and remote coastlines where crocodile sightings are part of the experience.
This powerful mix of fishing and cultural immersion sets Groote Eylandt apart from mainland icons like Kakadu, Litchfield National Park, Uluru (Ayers Rock) or the red heart landscapes around Alice Springs. There are no long drives dodging road trains, no crowded lookouts — just space, silence and connection in the south-west reaches of the Gulf.
Whether you’re drawn by the culture of Arnhem Land, the legacy of GEMCO, the beauty of the waters of Groote Eylandt, or the chance to explore one of Australia’s most remote island frontiers, this destination delivers something truly rare. Groote Eylandt doesn’t just invite you to visit — it invites you to slow down, listen, and experience the Northern Territory at its most authentic.
We would love your feedback on this page – please comment below if you’ve been to Groote Eylandt.
Norther® would like to invite you to explore more about the beauty at Groote Eylandt here. And… as always you can get more inspiration for other Destinations & National Parks to visit by following @northerhq or get your Groote Eylandt daily fix @grooteeylandt.
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. AllClear and Cover More are our favourite travel insurance providers 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.
