Nhulunbuy
Town
Population 4111
Located on the north-eastern tip of Arnhem Land on the Gove Peninsula, Nhulunbuy and its surrounds are held freehold by the Yolngu people. The town was established to service the bauxite-mining industry and has developed as the administrative centre for the East Arnhem region. Access is by a year-round daily air service from Darwin or Cairns or, with a permit, by four-wheel drive only, through Arnhem Land.
Visitor Information
East Arnhem Land Tourist Association; (08) 8987 2828
In Town
Gayngaru Wetlands Interpretive Walk The path surrounds an attractive lagoon that is home to around 200 bird species. There are 2 viewing platforms and a bird hide, as well as signs near local flora explaining their uses in Aboriginal food and bush medicine. Visitors can take the Winter walk or Tropical Summer walk, which is shorter as a result of higher water levels. Centre of Nhulunbuy.
Nearby
Buku-Larrnggay Mulka This renowned community-based Aboriginal art centre was set up to educate visitors in the ways of local law and culture, and to share the art of the Yolngu people. It is located in the nearby Aboriginal community of Yirrkala. 'Buku-Larrnggay' refers to the feeling on your face as it is struck by the first rays of the sun. 'Mulka' is a sacred but public ceremony and means to hold or protect. A permit is not required to visit. Open Mon–Fri and Sat morning; (08) 8987 1701; 18 km SE.Dhamitjinya (East Woody Island) and Galaru (East Woody Beach): Gove peninsular has long sandy beaches, tropical clear-blue water and amazing sunset views; 3 km N. Travellers note: Visitors intending to drive to Nhulunbuy must obtain a permit from the Northern Land Council beforehand, (08) 8987 8500. It's 4WD only and conventional caravans are not allowed; conditions also apply. Allow 2 weeks for processing. A recreation permit is also required for travel outside the Nhulunbuy Town Lease, available from Dhimurru Land Management; (08) 8987 3992.
Fishing spots near town
Blyth River 238 km
The Blyth River estuary is about 30 km east of Maningrida. Six anglers and three guides in three boats made the run. The wind was slight, blowing from the north across the Arafura Sea and the run along the coast took... Find out moreCadell River 240 km
I watched an angler step on to a log that jutted out from the bank of the Cadell River. He cast his lure at a set of snags about 20 m upstream and proceeded to wind. Directly opposite the log was a mud bank that bore the... Find out moreCafes & restaurants around town
The Walkabout Lodge Restaurant
Only metres from the beach and Nhulunbuy’s central shopping area, the ambience here is truly tropical with outside dining beside a shimmering pool surrounded by swaying palms. Fittingly, the restaurant produces... Find out morePart of the Dugong Beach Resort, Seagrass has stunning views over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Less than 20 metres from a beautiful sandy beach, and a short walk from the main township of Alyangula, the restaurant complex is... Find out more
Campsites around town
Flat Rock Creek crossing 142 km
This small site is on the east side of the road, on the south side of the crossing. It’s on the Central Arnhem Rd, 108 km north of the Ramingining Rd junction. GPS S:12 43.277 E:135 35.493... Find out moreRocky Bottom Creek crossing 181 km
On the north side of the road, on the east side of the crossing, this small site is on the Central Arnhem Rd, 60 km north of the Ramingining Rd junction. GPS S:12 54.668 E:135 17.604... Find out moreHotels, motels & B&Bs around town
A popular destination, the Walkabout has a good restaurant and coffee shop, a lively bar and lush, tropical gardens. Located between the beach and CBD, the hotel is only metres from shops and clubs. The walk along the... Find out more
What's on around town
Garma Festival: is a celebration of Aboriginal arts and crafts. August/September.
