Highlights:
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Immerse yourself in Yolŋu culture and art
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Explore pristine 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 lifetime fish
BEFORE YOU GO
A Visitor Access Permit from Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation is required to visit most areas around the Gove Peninsula – these permits can be easily purchased prior to your arrival!
If you don’t have your own vehicle, it is highly recommended you hire a 4WD to get around. 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 – if you are lucky you might even spot a crocodile from one of the platforms!
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.
Head back into Nhulunbuy for lunch, stopping along the way at the Roy Marika Lookout located at the summit of Nhulun (Mt Saunders). This lookout is a sacred site of great significance to Yolŋu and is the hill from which the Nhulunbuy township gets its name. Learn about the history of the region and the Yolŋu story of the spirit man, Wuyul, at the top of the lookout, from which you will enjoy panoramic views of Gayŋaru Wetlands, the Nhulunbuy township and the surrounding coastline.
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 - Banubanu BEACH RETREAT
Banubanu Beach Retreat is located on tropical Dhambaliya (Bremer Island) and is just a 15-minute charter flight from Gove Airport or about an hour by return boat transfer from Nhulunbuy. As well as overnight stays, Banubanu is open for day trips allowing visitors to experience this island paradise.
Enjoy unguided walks, bird watching, beachcombing or even try your luck at fishing. Seabreeze Restaurant is open for lunch and offers breathtaking views of the bay where dolphins play in the water while you enjoy a meal then relax in the plunge pool.
Banubanu Beach Retreat also offers eco-friendly beachfront accommodation and if time permits an overnight stay will allow you to appreciate this slice of paradise. Accommodation is limited and so bookings are required in advance.
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 3 – CHOOSE YOUR OWN ACTIVE ADVENTURE
Here are three fantastic ways to spend the day including getting out on the water, exploring the surrounding landscape, and having a hit at Australia’s top golf course!
OPTION 1 – FISHING CHARTER
East Arnhem Land’s crystal-clear waters provide the perfect opportunity to spend a day exploring the unspoiled reefs, estuaries and remote islands in pursuit of fish for sport or the dinner table. World famous for the variety, quality and size of catch available, East Arnhem Land offers a bounty for keen anglers whether you are experienced or just a beginner trying your luck. Noteworthy species caught in the region include barramundi and mangrove jack inshore, and coral trout, red emperor, Spanish mackerel and even marlin and sailfish as you head offshore. There are a range of charter options available that leave from Nhulunbuy.
OPTION 2 - EXPLORE THE NATURAL WONDERS
With a 4WD vehicle, a Dhimurru Visitor Permit and a map, explore the East Arnhem landscape at the various day-use areas.
As you first head out of town on Melville Bay Rd, Baṉambarrŋa (Rainbow Cliff) is only 10km out of Nhulunbuy on the left. This sheer section of coastline with its exposed and weathered cliff face produces a striking colourful effect after which it is named.
Return to the main road and continue to the turn-off to Wathuwuy (Latram River and Goanna Lagoon) on the right about 30km out of Nhulunbuy. A clear, shallow freshwater stream passes through eucalypt forest and bushland, with some deeper waterholes at Goanna Lagoon where a small cascading rapid runs through limestone rock. There is access to the water in several spots, making Wathawuy a popular swimming spot. It is generally considered free of crocodiles but caution must always be taken.
Return to Dhupuma Rd and continue heading away from town to reach the turn-off on the left to Binydjarrŋa (Daliwuy Bay), Garanhan (Macassan Beach), Ŋumuy (Turtle Beach) and Bariŋura (Little Bondi Beach). A succession of access roads off the main unsealed road leads to each unique location, from the tranquil bay and mangroves of Daliwuy Bay, to the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Turtle Beach and Little Bondi, and the rocky outcrops of Macassan Beach. Take a walk, relax, read a book or try your hand at fishing before tackling the 40km drive back to Nhulunbuy at the end of the day.
OPTION 3 - 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, known as ‘Australia's top golf course’ for its geographical location. This picturesque nine-hole, all-grass course is just 4km from Nhulunbuy town centre. There is a licenced bar and kitchen upstairs at the club house with spectacular views of the ocean - 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 with a bottle of wine and picnic dinner. This spectacular beach is located only 4km from Nhulunbuy town centre and is a favourite spot for locals to spend the afternoon. Stroll along the squeaky white sand toward Dhamitjinya (East Woody Island) and if the tide is right take in uninterrupted views along the coastline and out to the Arafura Sea, looking out for marine life such as dolphins, turtles and even manta rays. 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 three days? Check out our GOVE PENINSULA SEVEN DAY ITINERARY for more inspiration on what to see and do.
Need help planning? Feel free to contact us!