Mindil Beach on Fannie Bay is Darwin’s most popular spot for ocean swimming. Situated near the Skycity Casino resort, it starts about 2km from the city centre and is in fact the closest beach of good quality to the central part of Darwin. You can walk there from Darwin city centre or take a bus no. 4 or 6.

In the Dry Season, from May until October, Mindil Beach is the scene of a market every Thursday evening, specialising in food from many countries, reflecting the diverse ethnic origins of the residents of Darwin, but including many other wares and entertainments also. Being a popular spot to enjoy Darwin’s incredibly beautiful sunsets, many of the market’s patrons purchase their dinner at the markets and enjoy it on the beach watching the sun go down.

Swimming is safe in this beach except for the wet season when the box jelly fish are present. Stings from the long tentacles of this venomous creature can be fatal. They are transparent and difficult to see in the water, so check with local authorities as to the safety of the sea.