Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve

Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve protects a large expanse of undeveloped coastline and wetlands north-east of Darwin, fronting the Timor Sea. The reserve includes extensive mangrove forests, tidal mudflats and sandy beaches around the mouths of the Howard and Adelaide Rivers. Accessible mainly by 4WD, Shoal Bay is a popular destination for recreational fishers and crabbers – the tidal creeks yield barramundi and mud crabs in season. The area’s mangroves provide critical breeding habitat for marine life and support abundant birdlife (herons, kingfishers and birds of prey are commonly seen). Visitors will find a few informal bush tracks leading to spots like Tree Point and Buffalo Creek within the reserve, but there are no built facilities or maintained picnic areas. The appeal of Shoal Bay lies in its wild, remote character despite being near Darwin. Beachcombing, wildlife watching and fishing are the main activities. Caution: Crocodiles inhabit the waterways and coastal shallows, so swimming is unsafe. There is little shade on the open beaches, but the mangrove edges offer some cover. Visitors should be self-sufficient with water and supplies. Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve provides a rugged Top End coastal experience, preserving important ecosystems and a sense of isolation close to the city.