Cobourg Peninsula

Introducing Cobourg Peninsula

The entire wilderness of this remote peninsula forms the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, which includes the surrounding sea. In the turquoise water you’ll likely see dolphins and turtles, and – what most people come for – a threadfin salmon thrashing on the end of your line. Cobourg Adventures (08-8979 0455; www.cobourgbeachhuts.com.au; Smith Point) is an excellent outfit that organises activities and tours, including fishing (full day for two $550) from its eco-resort-style set-up (doubles $220). It also arranges permits on your behalf; book well ahead.

On the shores of Port Essington are the stone ruins and headstones from Victoria settlement – Britain’s 1838 attempt to establish a military outpost.

At Black Point (Algarlarlgarl) there’s a ranger station (08-8979 0244) with a visitor information and cultural centre, and the Garig Store (08-8979 0455; 4-6pm Mon-Sat), which sells basic provisions, ice and camping gas; credit cards and Eftpos are accepted.

Two permits are required to visit the Cobourg Peninsula: for a transit pass to drive through Aboriginal land contact the Northern Land Council (www.nlc.org.au; passes $13.20); for permission to stay overnight in the National Park contact the Parks & Wildlife Commission (08-8999 4814; PO Box 496, Palmerston, NT 0831; per vehicle $235).

There’s a good, shady camping ground about 100m from the shore at Smith Point (unpowered sites free). Facilities include shower, toilet, BBQs and limited bore water; generators are allowed in one area.

Last updated: Aug 27, 2009