We just had to include an entry for the marvelous water parks of Darwin and Palmerston as they were an absolute lifesaver when we spent an extended period there with young children a few years ago. A wonderful idea from the local councils. Oh, excellent libraries as well! Ed: Kevin Parker
Darwin and Palmerston, situated in Australia’s Northern Territory, offer a mix of water parks for everyone to enjoy. The Darwin Waterfront Precinct, which doesn’t charge an entrance fee, is a standout with its saltwater pool and adjacent beach. This area also features the Wave Lagoon, making it a favorite for both relaxation and some wave action. And with nearby cafes, restaurants, and shops, visitors can easily spend an entire day there.
Palmerston’s free Oasis Water Park, located within the Palmerston Recreation Centre, is another great spot. It boasts a spacious leisure pool equipped with fun water play tools and a slide. Children can enjoy the splash pad, while adults can unwind in the shaded areas. For those looking for some lap swimming, there’s a separate pool just for that. Parking is also easy and free, adding to the park’s appeal.
For those willing to spend a little, Palmerston offers the Big Buoy Water Park. This floating park on Lake Maraboon is packed with inflatable slides, trampolines, and challenging obstacles, making it fun for both children and adults.
Lastly, Darwin’s Leanyer Recreation Park caters to both free and paid experiences. It has a large wave pool, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and a children’s pool. If you’re willing to pay a bit extra, the Leanyer Aquatic Centre within the park offers more slides, a lazy river, and a dedicated splash area.
