Casuarina Coastal Reserve
Overview
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This Reserve protects about 1500ha of coastal habitats between the estuaries of Rapid Creek and Buffalo Creek, in the Darwin area. It includes 8 km of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and shady casuarina trees. Behind the dunes lie typical Top End coastal plant communities including patches of woodlands, monsoon forests, mangroves and paperbarks.
The Larrakia people speak for this area and maintain links with the land, its sacred and significant sites include Dariba Nunggalinya (Old Man Rock) visible at low tide from Dripstone Cliffs lookout. Although fishing is permitted, disturbing the rock in any way or the removal of shellfish at this site is prohibited. Also in the Park are World War II artillery observation posts providing a reminder of the area's wartime involvement.
How to Get There
The Reserve is located in Darwin's northern suburbs and can be entered via the Rapid Creek, Trower Road (Brinkin), Lee Point or Buffalo Creek Roads.
When to Visit
The Reserve is accessible all year round.
What to See and Do
- Wildlife
Ospreys, sea eagles, cormorants and gulls can be seen along the dunes or soaring overhead. You can see a variety of tropical marine life in the rock pools at low tide. - Crocodiles
As part of the Parks and Wildlife Services' Saltwater Crocodile management of Darwin Harbour, crocodiles found in this area are removed. They may however enter the area undetected. - Nudist Beach
North of Dripstone Picnic Area. Nudists using this area must stay within the signposted boundaries.
Visitor Facilties
Drinking water, Showers, toilets and barbecue facilities are available.
Please Remember
Safety and comfort
- Observe park safety signs.
- Box Jellyfish are common during the wet season (October – May) – do not enter the water. Jellyfish are less common (June – September) but serious stings have occurred during this period. Be cautious if swimming and preferably wear protective clothing – especially children. If stung, douse the affected area with vinegar and seek medical assistance.
- Carry and drink plenty of water.
- Wear a shady 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.
Please remember
- Put your rubbish in the bin or take it away with you.
- Keep to designated roads and tracks.
- All cultural items and wildlife are protected.
- Pets are not permitted in any parts of this Reserve. However exercise areas are set aside for dogs and horses. Signs on site explain these conditions. Please observe these regulations.
- Nets, traps and firearms are not permitted.
- Camping is not permitted.
- Observe all fishing regulations.
- Check that your vehicle is not transporting pests like weeds and Cane Toads.
Fact Sheet
- Download fact sheet (pdf 823Kb)
Recreational Activities
Recreational activities and facilities within the Reserve include:
- Cycling Path
The cycle path from Rapid Creek Bridge to Dripstone Park is bitumen. It has a link to the Northern Territory University. The other paths, which are dual purpose for use by cyclists and walkers run from Daribah Road past the Royal Darwin Hospital to Lee Point. - Fishing
Although fishing is permitted, disturbing the rocks in any way or the removal of shellfish is prohibited. - Picnic Tables
Barbeques, tables and plenty of shade make this Reserve a popular picnic spot. There are gas BBQ's throughout the Reserve with locations at Dripstone Park and Lee Point. - Walking Tracks
A signposted track is located at the Dariba Road carpark, with access through to Rocklands Drive, Tiwi. The path from Daribah Road goes on past the Royal Darwin Hospital to Lee Point. A stroll on the beach or along the track to Sandfly Creek is also enjoyable. - Exercising Animals
Dogs and horses are permitted only in some areas. Check the regulations brochure (pdf 128kb) or signs at the Reserve to locate the appropriate areas. Bylaws apply.
Scenic and Cultural Features
The Reserve also protects areas of cultural significance. The Larrakia people speak for this land. Off shore is Old Man Rock (Dariba Nunggalinya), a registered Aboriginal Sacred Site. A further registered Sacred Site of an old battle site is also located on the reserve.
Another feature of the Reserve is the World War II observation posts which provide a reminder of the area's wartime involvement. Such a site near Lee Point is on the National Heritage Register.
Plants and Animals
Casuarina Coastal Reserve hosts a diverse and significant range of vegetation communities, including monsoon vine-forest, mangroves, Casuarina forest and woodlands.
The habitats in this Reserve support one of the most diverse collections of native fauna found anywhere in the Darwin area. As well as the many different bird species, small mammals including the Northern Brushtail Possum and Northern Brown Bandicoot thrive in the forests.
Ranger Guided Activities
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Guided Walk
- When: Monday 30 June.
Wednesday 2, Friday 11, Tuesday 15 & Thursday 17 July, 2008. - Time: 9am - 1.5 hours
- Meet: Lee Point - bottom carpark.
- Book: 8999 4555
The Dynamic Beach - come along and find out about the seasonal changes, the multiple habitats and inhabitants.
Guided Walk
- When: Friday 27 June. Tuesday 1,
Friday 4, Monday 14 & Friday 16 July,
2008. - Time: 9am - 1.5 hours
- Meet: Dripstone cliffs carpark, Brinkin
- Book: 8999 4555
Notices of the talks are advertised in the local
newspaper or further details are available on 8999 4555.