Your ultimate guide to the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands: a far-flung northern sanctuary where there’s art, footy and fishing fever abound.

Until recently, the Tiwi Islands have been just a blip on the tourism radar. While barramundi hunters and football selectors have been pretty hush-hush about their fertile hunting grounds, interest in this fascinating area and the Tiwi people who call it home is on the rise.

Before you take a ferry ride up from Darwin for a window into Top End Aboriginal culture and friendliness, you need to check out our guide to the islands below.

Why go to the Tiwi Islands?

an aerial view of Tiwi Island Retreat. — Tiwi Island Retreat is a tropical oasis on Bathurst Island. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Surrounded by azure waters 80 kilometres north of Darwin, the Tiwis – also known as ‘The Islands of Smiles’ for its residents’ joie de vivre – is an archipelago of 11 islands, with Bathurst and Melville the largest of these.

About 90 per cent of the Tiwi population is Aboriginal and, despite cohabitating with European settlers since the 1800s, Tiwi traditions and culture remain strong.

Locals date and marry according to skin group rules, cultural pride reigns supreme, and the three Tiwi passions – footy, art, and fishing – colour life on the islands. This trio of activities also captures the main drawcards of a journey here.

Art lovers, fishing fans, and Aussie Rules spectators find much to love about this tropical oasis.

How to get to the Tiwi Islands?

a ferry going to Tiwi Islands — A SeaLink NT ferry arriving at Bathurst Island for a Tiwi Tours day trip. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Take a 2.5-hour ride with SeaLink NT Ferries from Darwin to Wurrumiyanga on Bathurst Island, book a tour, or catch a 20-minute flight from Darwin Airport with Fly Tiwi.

When to visit the Tiwi Islands

football players gather at the Tiwi Islands Grand Final and Art Sale — Football players with their arms linked at the Tiwi Islands Grand Final and Art Sale. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Anglers can happily fish here all year round. Otherwise, the Top End dry season – which runs from May until September – offers travellers the most comfortable weather.

That said, the biggest event on the Tiwi calendar – the Footy Grand Final and Art Sale – is in July in 2025, and day tours operate from April to November.

The main event on the Tiwi calendar? That’d be the Footy Grand Final and Art Sale, happening in July 2025. But if you can’t make it to the big day in July, day tours run from April through to November.

Permits and other Tiwi Islands tips and tricks

the Tarntipi Bush Camp on Tiwi Islands — The Tarntipi Bush Camp is within a short walk to a beach and a freshwater spring. (Image: Tourism NT/Nic Morley)

Tiwi communities occupy Aboriginal-owned land, so if you’re travelling independently, rather than on an organised tour, you’ll need to apply for a permit through the Tiwi Land Council .

The exception to this rule applies to those visiting via SeaLink Ferry to Wurrumiyanga – you can wander around the cultural precinct here permit-free. Bring your own food as there are no cafes or takeaway food joints on the islands.

What to do on the Tiwi Islands?

ART COLLECTING

ironwood carved birds at Jilamara Arts and Craft Association, Tiwi Islands — Carved Tiwi Tokwanpini (birds) and Tjurrukukini (owls) with ochre paintings at Jilamara. (Image: Tourism NT/Felix Baker)

There’s a depth and playfulness inherent in the art made by the Tiwis’ stock of artists. For starters, Tiwi painters use ochre paints rather than acrylics, and ironwood carvings of totem animals – such as owls, cockatoos and brolgas – are in abundance, as are brightly coloured fabrics in a suite of whimsical designs.

Take a stroll around the islands’ three key art centres to absorb the whole gamut and pick up a Tiwi creation for keeps. Tiwi Design on Bathurst Island is a hub for screen-printed fabrics and ironwood animal carvings, among other gems.

At Jilamara on Melville Island, you can encounter ironwood carved birds and Tutini poles (for Pukamani, funeral ceremony), hand screen-printed textiles and some of the archipelago’s more famous artists, such as Timothy Cook, a former winner of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards. Also on Melville Island, Munupi Arts is known for its pottery, as well as its works by female and emerging artists.

Check out our review of the Tiwi Island art tour to learn more.

FISHING

The Tiwi Islands have a reputation as a foolproof fishing destination. It doesn’t matter what the tides are doing, there’s always somewhere to hook a whopper.

Common catches include mangrove jacks, golden snapper, jewfish, coral trout, trevally, tuna, Spanish mackerel, and, of course, barramundi.

Hire a boat and camp if you prefer a more rustic, affordable and earthy alternative to a fishing lodge.

For a mere $10 per night, the islands offer three basic campsites for recreational anglers. You’ll find Camp Point and Robertson Creek on Melville Island, and Shaggy’s (Tinkanrow) on Bathurst Island.

Note: you’ll still need a permit for this option and should allow 30 working days for it to be processed.

TIWI ISLAND TOURS

a woven basket at Tiwi Islands annual art sale — Aboriginal art for sale at Tiwi Design. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

SeaLink NT and AAT Kings all offer one-day tours that start with a ferry trip to Wurrumiyanga and include visits to Tiwi Design , Patakijiyali Museum (displaying traditional art and depictions of Tiwi dreaming stories), and the community’s Mission Precinct, which features a beautiful, art-lined wooden Catholic Church.

Tour highlights include making your own screen-printed fabric at Tiwi Design, witnessing a smoking ceremony and chatting with local Tiwi ladies while they weave baskets or paint.

TIME YOUR TRIP WITH A SPECIAL EVENT

Aboriginal art on a Tiwi Islands day tour — Take to the Tiwi Islands for an art tour. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

The Tiwis’ annual footy final is taking place on 20 July 2025. It’s a huge day both for Tiwi Islanders and those keen to sample islander pride, art and football culture.

Travel by ferry for early morning art sales from all three Tiwi art centres, grab a gourmet burger and, when the afternoon arrives, take a seat at the Tiwi Islands Grand Final.

This high-octane event sells out almost every year – so make sure to book early.

Where to stay on the Tiwi Islands?

a glamping eco-lodge at Tiwi Island Retreat — A glamping eco-lodge with a relaxed beach-style vibe. (Image: Tourism NT/Tiwi Island Retreat)

The accommodation in the Tiwi Islands is mostly tailored to fishing travellers, but it also caters for those keen on unplugging somewhere seriously remote and beautiful.

The best of Tiwi’s small cluster of lodges is the luxurious Tiwi Island Retreat on the outer edge of Bathurst Island. Getting here involves a 20-minute flight from Darwin, a 50-minute troopy ride, and a short boat trip.

a beach near Tiwi Island Retreat — Wetlands near Tiwi Island Retreat. (Image: Tourism NT/Mark Fitz)

Set on a sandy beach lined with towering coconut palms, the retreat has a pool, an expansive deck, shared bathrooms and coastal-styled rooms. It’s also known for its cocktail-drink-welcome, plus the friendliness of its skippers who lead you to the finest fishing spots (if fishing is your thing). There’s a two-night minimum stay and prices include food, transfers to Darwin and activities on the island.

Also on Bathurst Island, but at Wurrumiyanga (where the ferry arrives from Darwin), Tiwi Enterprises runs the Mantiyupwi Motel, featuring 30 rooms, each with an ensuite bathroom and kitchenette.

On Melville Island, Tiwi Islands Adventures operates the Melville Island Lodge, which can accommodate up to 20 guests. It sits on the waterfront in the tiny township of Milikapiti (Snake Bay). From Darwin, the lodge is a 30-minute flight away – or reachable by sea, if you’re taking the slow road.

Planning a tropical getaway? Make sure to include Tiwi Islands in your bucket list and go for a Tiwi Islands art tour.

Originally written by Kate Bettes with updates by Leah McLennan

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com