Highlights:
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Immerse yourself in Yolŋu culture and art
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Explore untouched landscapes
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Discover Banubanu’s tropical island paradise
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Have a hit at Australia's Top Golf Course
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Catch that once in a life time fish
BEFORE YOU GO
A Visitor Access Permit, and a Camping Permit if staying overnight, from Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation are required to visit most areas on this itinerary – these permits can be purchased easily prior to your arrival!
If you don’t have your own vehicle, you will need to hire a 4WD for this itinerary. There is so much to see and do in East Arnhem Land and having your own transport will be well worth it!
There are many accommodation options available, from a luxury retreat to camping under the stars. Wherever you stay, you’ll get a good night’s rest to make sure you are ready for your next day of adventures!
Day 1 - Nhulunbuy and surrounds
Rise early and head to Gayŋaru Wetlands (Town Lagoon) to experience this tranquil wetland in the early morning with its abundance of native flora and fauna. There is a 3km return walking trail that follows the edge of the wetland with interpretive signage, viewing platforms and a bird hide.
Get breakfast from a local cafe, bakery or coffee van and, then drive 15 minutes to the nearby community of Yirrkala and world-renowned Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Art Centre. Browse the range of inspiring artworks including bark paintings, larrakitj (memorial poles), yidakis (didjeridu), prints and fibre art, as well as the museum, rich with Yolŋu history.
Visit the locals’ favourite Gove Boat Club for afternoon drinks and dinner to end the day. This is a great location to relax and witness one of Australia’s best sunsets. Arrive by 6pm in the tropical summer (November to April) and 5.30pm in the dry season (May to October) to ensure you get there in time to see the sky light up. The Gove Boat Club has a big grassed area overlooking the beach with picnic tables to enjoy a meal from The Waterfront Kitchen while watching the sunset over Melville Bay.
Day 2 - WAṈUWUY (CApe arnhem)
Rise early to embark on today’s adventure to the breathtaking peninsula called Waṉuwuy (Cape Arnhem). Waṉuwuy is located on the eastern tip of East Arnhem Land and is a 50km drive from Nhulunbuy. The drive to Waṉuwuy is spectacular and takes you on a wonderful journey along an escarpment, over sand dunes and along stretches of the whitest sand beaches. You will need a 4WD to travel here and, as much of the track is soft sand, it is recommended to let your tyre pressure down along the way. There is an information sign at the point where this is recommended.
Once you get to Waṉuwuy you will instantly know why this is such a bragged-about spot in East Arnhem Land for those who have visited. The white beaches stretch on for what seems like forever and the turquoise water is comparable to Bora Bora! There are campsites located at the north-eastern end of the peninsula with picnic tables and fire pits. It is highly recommended to spend at least one night camping here if you have the time – you will not regret it!
Day 3 - Wathawuy (LATRAM RIVER)
Have a bit of a sleep in and then head to one of the local cafes for breakfast, picking up supplies for a picnic lunch while you are there. Today we head to the refreshing stream called Wathawuy (Latram River and Goanna Lagoon). The drive to Wathawuy is only half an hour from Nhulunbuy so take your time and enjoy the drive - you may even spot a water buffalo along the way if you are lucky! There are many secluded areas at both Latram River and Goanna Lagoon to set up a picnic rug and settle into the peaceful surrounds for the day. The stream is generally shallow and clear and you will find many locals enjoy this spot for a swim on the hotter days. Make sure to always be crocwise around bodies of water as crocodiles do inhabit all waterways in East Arnhem Land.
Arriving back to Nhulunbuy in the late afternoon, freshen up and head to Latitude 12 - the Walkabout Lodge’s poolside restaurant for dinner. Enjoy the local charm and treat yourself to a meal and cocktail.
Day 4 - Banubanu BEACH RETREAT
Banubanu Beach Retreat is located on tropical Bremer Island and is just a 15 minute charter flight from Gove Airport or approximately an hour leisurely boat transfer from Nhulunbuy. The Banubanu team run regular day trips to the island allowing visitors to have a day in absolute paradise.
Enjoy unguided walking trails, bird watching, beachcombing or even try your luck on a fishing charter. The Seabreeze Restaurant located at the retreat offers breathtaking views of the bay where you will often spot dolphins joyfully playing in the water while you enjoy a delicious meal or relax in the plunge pool!
Banubanu Beach Retreat does have eco friendly beachfront accommodation available and we recommend staying the night to really appreciate this slice of paradise if you have time! The accommodation is limited so if you are thinking of spending the night, make sure you book in advance.
Day 5 – BEACH HOP
Today’s journey is a fun beach hop showcasing some of East Arnhem Land’s most recognisable landscapes! Leave Nhulunbuy early to get the most out of your day, packing a picnic breakfast, lunch and dinner to enjoy the day from sunrise to sunset! All the areas you will be visiting today allow camping, so if you think you might like to stay the night under the stars of East Arnhem Land, be sure to book your site in advance!
Garanhan (Macassan beach)
First stop for the day is Garanhan, also known as Macassan Beach, which is a 38 kilometre drive from Nhulunbuy. Garanhan boasts bright red cliffs running parallel to the coastline, with the contrasting colours making for striking photos and an excellent spot to stop for breakfast! The waves crashing on the cliff forms small pools where you will often see small marine creatures such as crabs. After breakfast, take a walk through the Wurrwurrwuy stone pictures that provide a window into the fascinating trade between the Yolŋu of north-eastern Arnhem Land and the Macassans from the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. The relationship between these two cultures existed for several centuries prior to European settlement in Australia with visits documented as far back as the seventeenth century.
Ŋumuy (turtle beach)
Once you have explored Garanhan, jump in the car and head down the road for a few kilometres to Ŋumuy, also known as Turtle Beach. This charming little cove is a local favourite and you will have no trouble seeing why! There is plenty of shade on the beautiful white beach to throw out your picnic rug for lunch and relax for a while. Ŋumuy is also a stop along the Dhimurru Coastal Walking Trail for those looking to explore the coastline by foot.
Bariŋura (Little bondi beach)
The last stop for the day is the spectacular Bariŋura, also know as Little Bondi Beach. The track into Bariŋura is mostly dirt with some sandy patches at the end, so make sure your vehicle is four wheel drive and be prepared for some sand driving. This beach is a hidden gem with a stretch of squeaky white sand and crystal clear waters - if you are lucky enough you might even get it all to yourself! Stay for dinner at one of East Arnhem Land’s most iconic beaches and watch as the sun sets over the Gulf of Carpentaria to end a wonderful day of exploring.
Day 6 - CULTURAL IMMERSION
Spend a day immersing yourself in one of the oldest living cultures on Earth at a homeland such as Bawaka with Lirrwi Tourism. The one-day tour leaves Nhulunbuy at around 8am arriving into Bawaka homeland about an hour and a half later. On arrival, enjoy a traditional Welcome to Country. This tour provides you with the opportunity to learn about Yolŋu kinship systems and connection to land and sea, as well as experience traditional spear fishing and crab hunting. Bawaka homeland is also home to the dreamy Lonely Beach, East Arnhem Land’s most iconic location, allowing you to get that special shot to make your friends and family jealous!
Day 7 – CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
Choose your own adventure for today! We have listed two fantastic ways to spend the day - get out on the water and catch yourself that once in a lifetime fish or have a hit at Australia’s top golf course!
OPTION 1 - FISHING CHARTER
For the fishing enthusiasts, East Arnhem’s crystal clear waters provide the perfect opportunity to spend a day out on the water exploring the unspoiled reefs, estuaries and remote islands on offer! World famous for the variety, quality and size of catch available, East Arnhem Land waters offer a bounty for keen anglers whether they are experienced or just a beginner trying their luck. Noteworthy species caught in the region include the elusive barramundi, mangrove jack, jewfish, red emperor, Spanish mackerel and, for those keen on a challenge, blue marlin and sailfish. There are a range of charter options that leave from Nhulunbuy.
OPTION 2 - GOVE COUNTRY GOLF CLUB
For the golf enthusiasts visiting East Arnhem Land, you can’t go past having a hit at the Gove Country Golf Club, also known as Australia's Top Golf Course. This picturesque nine hole all grass course is located just four kilometres from Nhulunbuy town centre. There is a licensed bar and kitchen located on the second floor of the club house that offers up spectacular views of the close by beach and is the perfect spot to relax after a day on the green.
Whatever option you choose for your last day, end your East Arnhem Land trip with a visit to Galuru (East Woody Beach) for sunset, grabbing take away fish ‘n’ chips along your way for dinner. This spectacular beach is located only four kilometres from Nhulunbuy town centre and is a favourite spot for locals to spend the afternoon. Stroll along the squeaky white sand over to Dhamitjinya (East Woody Island) and take in uninterrupted views along the coastline and out to the Arafura Sea, looking out for marine wildlife such as dolphins, turtles and even the odd manta ray! Just before the dark sets in, wander back to the beach, set up a bonfire and enjoy the last of the sunset. Soon enough, you'll be in a prime position to experience a night sky like no other, with abundant stars and constellations making for an unparalleled star gazing experience.
Love East Arnhem Land and plan to stay longer than seven days? Check out OUR WEBSITE for more inspiration on what to see and do.
Need help planning? Feel free to contact us!