Incredible beaches, pristine waters & an unparalleled diversity of aquatic life are just some of the attributes of Groote Eylandt. Its meaning ‘Great Island’ is a true reflection of the breathtaking beauty that can be admired when visiting.

The island, part of the Groote Archipelago is approximately a 1.5hr flight out of Darwin. The small, but welcoming population makes an incredible travelling opportunity. To protect the island, a permit from the Anindilyakwa Land Council is required. The “Anindilyakwan People” are the traditional owners of this spectacular land and their welcoming of visitors is something we are incredibly lucky to share.

An abundance of activities including golf, the arts and cultural centre and exceptional fishing are available along with some beautiful accomodation options.

Groote Eylandt is certainly well worth the trip and will have you making memories that last a lifetime while leaving a positive impact on this beautiful piece of Australia.

Located just over 600km from Darwin, there are a few different ways you can get to Groote Eylandt.  You have the option to fly from Darwin or Nhulunbuy (Gove). Alternatively, you can catch the ferry to Groote Eylandt from Numbulwar and Bickerton Island. 

In order to camp on the island you must first obtain a permit which then opens up fifteen different camping options all of which are accessible both by vehicle and by boat. For more information on the recreation site options check out the map here. Please be aware that at different times throughout the year, certain recreation areas may be closed. It’s worthwhile planning ahead to stay informed. Park rangers are known to conduct frequent permit checks to ensure that any non-traditional land owners do hold a current permit. Large fines may be payable if you do not obtain a valid permit. To organise your permit all visitors are required to visit the Anindilyakwa Land and see rangers in person upon arrival. For more information on the permits visit the link here.

What to pack for this park’s visit?

• Bring your firewood before arriving at picnic spots
• Bring enough hydration: drinking water is limited
• Hats and proper shoes
• Sunscreen
• Food
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit

Safety advice

• Observe park safety signs
• Carry plenty of drinking water
• Avoid strenuous activity in the heat
• Ensure your vehicle is well maintained and equipped
• DO NOT swim in the waterways! There may be saltwater crocodiles
• Please phone 08 9167 8827 to check if park is open, or check the NT government website

For crocodile safety, please check https://becrocwise.nt.gov.au/

Groote Eylandt provides an incredibly rich selection of wildlife to appreciate. The gulf of the island is home to substantial amounts of marine life. This includes turtles, dugongs, sea snakes, mud crabs, whales, sharks as well as many other types of fish. There is also incredible bird diversity, which makes the island a hotspot for bird watchers. The amount of protected and endangered wildlife both on land and in the water means you are unlikely to miss the incredible wildlife of Groote Eylandt.

As always, please be respectful of the traditional land owners, and be aware of any and all rules that are in place.

If you are planning on fishing it is also worthwhile having a read of the rules for fishing on aborginial land which can be found here.

When visiting the Groote Eylandt, remember all of the following:

• Ensure you obtain all of the correct permits.
• Do not litter or leave rubbish on any trails or recreational areas.
• Stay on marked roads and tracks
• Cultural items and wildlife are protected
• Pets may not be permitted (please see here for more information).
• Be careful with fire and light fires only in fireplaces provided
• Camp only in marked camping areas
• Collect firewood before arriving at your picnic or campsite
• Follow all fishing laws
• Check your vehicle is not transporting pests like weeds and cane toads
• A permit may be needed to fly a drone – for more info visit here.
• Please be respectful at all times.