Casuarina Coastal Reserve
Reserve declared a park
On 31 July 2024, the reserve was declared a park under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1976.
To read the report and next steps, visit the Northern Territory Government's Have Your Say NT website.
Casuarina Coastal Reserve has kilometres of unspoilt beaches with endless views of the beautiful coastline.
Fringed by dramatic cliffs and sweeping casuarina trees, it's an ideal spot for a picnic, a game of beach cricket or to watch the Territory sun slip over the horizon at dusk.
Depending on the time of year, you might see wading and migratory birds or nesting turtles on the beach.
Heritage listed ruins from World War II are scattered through the reserve.
There's a nudist zone on the beach north of Darriba Road. It is illegal to be nude outside this zone.
It is also a significant site for the Larrakia people. Darriba Nunggalinya or Old Man Rock can be seen at low tide.
You should not disturb Old Man Rock in any way or remove shellfish.
Get the Casuarina Coastal Reserve fact sheet and map PDF (1.1 MB).
To contact the Ranger Station, phone 08 8999 4555.
| Park sites | Status | Comments | Forecast opening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casuarina Coastal Reserve | Open | - | |
| Footbridge to CDU adjacent to Alawa Oval | Closed | Footbridge closed for safety reasons. | To be advised |
| Walk from Rocklands Drive to Free Beach carpark | Open | - | |
| Walk from Royal Darwin Hospital to Free Beach | Open | - | |
| Sandy Creek Boardwalk | Open | - | |
| Mountain bike trails | Open | - | |
| Lee Point beach picnic area | Open | - | |
| Lee Point walking trail | Open | - | |
| Shared path - Lee Point to Buffalo Creek bird hide | Open | - |
Enter the reserve by foot or bicycle at Rapid Creek or from Lee Point, Buffalo Creek and Trower Roads.
Cycle tracks give you access along the coastline to the reserve from as far away as Darwin city.
You can do all of the following activities in the Casuarina Coastal Reserve:
- cycling
- mountain biking
- picnicking
- bushwalking
- dog walking
- fishing
- wildlife spotting
- exploring historical ruins
- ranger-guided activities.
Casuarina Coastal Reserve has all of the following facilities:
- information signs
- barbecues
- drinking water
- public toilets
- picnic areas
- showers
- boat ramp – Buffalo Creek
- playground.
When visiting the reserve, remember all of the following:
- Put your rubbish in the bin or take it with you.
- Stay on marked roads and tracks.
- Cultural items and wildlife are protected.
- Pets are restricted in the park. There are exercise areas for dogs and horses with signs for conditions of use. Find out more about the rules for dogs at Casuarina Reserve.
- Nets, traps and firearms are not permitted.
- Camping is not permitted.
- Follow fishing laws.
- Check that your vehicle is not transporting pests like weeds and cane toads.
You can have a safe and comfortable trip to Casuarina Coastal Reserve by doing all of the following:
- observe park safety signs
- carry and drink plenty of water
- wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent
- wear suitable clothing and footwear
- avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day
- beware of theft, lock vehicles and secure valuables.
Box Jellyfish
Box jellyfish are common during the Wet Season from October to May. Do not enter the water during this time.
Jellyfish are less common from June to September, but serious stings have happened during this time.
If stung, flush the area with vinegar and get medical help.
Go to the Department of Health website to read more about stinger or box jellyfish safety.
Phone: 08 8999 4555
Last updated: 09 October 2024
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