Darwin Wave Lagoon — Attraction in Darwin City

Fairly overrated, tbh. My kids and I used to go pretty often when it first opened, we went yesterday after a quite long break between visits, and while i was happy to see they’ve moved the kiosk to a more practical location near the entrance (as opposed to way the hell on the other side of the Waterfront), it wasn’t much fun.

The waves, as other have commented, mostly aren’t on. You can go to any public pool in Darwin to splash around in still water, and all of them are cheaper than here. The waves would run for 5-10 minutes and then there’d be a huge break of waiting around for 20+ minutes.

Also, there’s hardly any floaties? There used to be heaps and it was easy to grab one every time we came no matter how busy it was - there were 22 floaties in the park (yes, I counted), quite a few of which were being used as seating outside the water, as there’s minimal seats and loungers and the few available were well and truly claimed when we arrived fifteen minutes after opening. I spoke to a lifeguard about the floaties, and he explained they have 25 but a few were damaged, but that we could buy one at the kiosk for the extortionate price of $30. So I’d either bring your own from Kmart for $5 or plan to get smashed in the face by waves and spend the whole time consoling your child. I have multiple painful abrasions on my hands, arms, and knees from being knocked over onto the very sharp nonslip lining. It would’ve been nice to have a floatie!

Oh, they sell boogie boards, too, with no apparent rules or guidelines about riding them - you’ll get smashed in the face by wannabe-surfers with no clue, as well.

Overall, meh? Doubt we’ll go back. Either enjoy the free Waterfront lagoon right next to it, or go to Leanyer Water Park (also free) and enjoy waterslides and a huge swimming pool and water playground...

Unreal! Grab a tube and float. It's so relaxing ! Acceptiinally so relaxing. You wouldn't know this would be the case. It is something about the way the waves move you. Just lie back and enjoy. It's safe. It's good for you. A definite unique experience. And a great oyster bar nearby for a snack later. Beside the wave pool is the salt water swimming park with obstacle course pictured. Great for adults getting fit and kids. I was amazed at how local children worked together to help each other on the obstacle course. My son needed help and the other children worked together to help him get up. When something like that happens, it is rare and it is great self esteem builder for all involved. Amazing how whether helping or being helped to achieve getting up on these giant blow up obstacles the locals in Darwin, really know the value of working together. It's different in NSW where we came from. It's more about helping yourself in NSW. Darwin has so many challenges in daily life that people have had to work together to get through all sorts of struggles unique to the environment. Great to have a holiday focused on people, culture,...

Had a great day showing Mum who is visiting from down South the local sights and attractions. Our family has just moved to Darwin so this was our first time here also, the kids and adults all had a great time. Family ticket price was very reasonable ($24), children under 3 are free. Heaps of shaded areas to sit, plenty of lounge chairs, lovely grassed area, semi shaded shallow pool suitable for babies and young children. You’re able to bring outside food and drink in which is great as there are so many lovely restaurants along the strip there. We brang our own snacks and drinks and grabbed some burgers for lunch. My only dislike is that the bathrooms are way up the back and out of the pool area, you can’t quickly nip to the toilet. Love the sea water and the waves were great, very realistic. I do feel that the warning that the waves are about to start needs to be louder/more obvious, I nearly got caught in them with my 17 month old in her floaty ring. Highly recommend for an inexpensive...