NT – Holidays In Oz

Darwin, the immaculately beautiful capital city of the Northern Territory in Australia. The city is known for being a tropical oasis, a multicultural centre, and the gateway to Australia's ties to Southeast Asia - particularly Indonesia and East Timor. Although it is the smallest, wettest, and most northerly of Australia's capital cities, this city truly has something to delight and amuse any visitor. As Australia's Top End capital, this charming city serves as the regional centre for the Northern Territory. Its close proximity to many stunning rainforests, beaches, and national parks gives people an abundant amount of reasons to visit the city and the area as a whole. However, many international visitors and domestic travellers alike have heard that people are not able to swim in Darwin, which can cause some hesitancy in making the trip to the city. Despite many rumours circling around about Darwin and the surrounding area not allowing people to swim, this is not entirely true. Darwin has many areas that are safe for people of all ages to swim. The fantastic weather in Darwin makes this possible to swim. Due to the humidity in the Wet Season, and the warm daytime temperatures in the Dry Season, this city is one where people often feel comfortable swimming all year round. However, in Darwin, it is important for locals and tourists alike to be aware of where it is safe to swim, and where it is not. Darwin does play host to both crocodiles and jellyfish alike - which can obviously be dangerous to any swimmer. Because of this, much of the city's beaches are either sectioned off as not being safe or are approved and patrolled, making them safe. It is very crucial that all folks abide by these rules, for safety purposes. At the same time, because of the dangers that can lurk within the waters of the city, there have been many man-made places constructed for people to swim in. Not only are there multiple public swimming pools to choose from, but there are also waterparks for the whole family to enjoy. Many of these places are located right alongside the coast, making them very close to the city centre. Can You Swim At Any Beaches In Darwin? During the Dry Season in Darwin, there are four local beaches that are routinely patrolled, making them a safe option for an eager swimmer. These beaches are all within fifteen minutes of the Central Business District, making them easily accessible for even tourists without a vehicle. It is very important that folks check the conditions before swimming, which can always be found online or posted publicly at the beaches themselves. This time of year is considered to be the safest, as it is often devoid of any threats from marine life like jellyfish and crocodiles. Although it may be tempting to take a dip in the ocean waters, it is not recommended - especially during Darwin's Wet Season. This is not meant to be a deterrent from visiting the gorgeous area, but more so to keep any potential danger away from swimmers. Why Can't You Swim At All The Beaches In Darwin? The main reason that swimmers are cautioned or turned away from swimming at the beaches and ocean shores of Darwin is due to the aquatic life that calls the area home. The main concern is that of Box Jellyfish and crocodiles. Darwin is famously known for its "stinger season". This is when the beaches and shorelines are essentially swarming with highly poisonous jellyfish. Box Jellyfish are very common and are generally seen in the shallow waters surrounding the coast - making them a huge threat to swimmers. Although their body is quite small, their tentacles can extend to a length of nearly three meters - which makes their reach for stinging quite overwhelming. Box Jellyfish are known for having biological booby traps, which are known as nematocysts. These are basically tiny darts that are loaded with poison. Both animals and people alike that are injected with this poison can experience paralysis, cardiac arrest, and even fatality - all within only a few minutes of being stung. The other highly dangerous locals in the Darwin area are saltwater crocodiles. These crocodiles are known for being incredibly strong, agile, and quite sneaky - even being able to sprint through the water towards their prey. Unfortunately, these crocodiles are not fearful of human presence, as we fall under the category of their prey. This makes it crucial for folks to abide by the posted rules and warning signs that are put in place to protect them. Aside from the marine life, it's also worth noting that the waters of Darwin's shores can be dangerous themselves - particularly during the Wet Season. There are times when the monsoonal rains and thunderstorms cause the waters to be far too overwhelming, even for the most experienced swimmer. The currents alone are far too difficult to navigate, making swimming a dangerous activity at times. Can You Snorkel In Darwin? Snorkelling is not recommended at just any beach in Darwin, however, there are designated areas where this is certainly an option. One very popular option is the Vernon Islands Reef Walk and Snorkel. The famous Blue Holes of this area are known for being surrounded by lovely sandy banks, which are only available at low tide. This creates a gorgeous set of lagoons, which are surrounded by reefs and waterfalls alike - making an excellent home for Darwin marine life to be viewed. Guests are reminded to bring their own snorkel, goggles, and proper water footwear, however, stinger suits to keep safe from any potential jellyfish are available for purchase. There are other areas in the surrounding national parks that are also common spots for snorkelling excursions. Tourists merely have to decide whether or not they are willing to venture outside of the city limits in order to access these spots. However, it's worth mentioning that travelling to these spots for snorkelling, also means that guests are able to take in many more options for adventure.