Daly Waters

Daly Waters is a tiny outback settlement in the Northern Territory that packs an outsized punch for travellers. Famous for its historic pub, it’s a classic stop on the Stuart Highway where the red dirt meets the big sky. This is the kind of place where you can feel the pulse of the Australian outback – think cold beer, tall tales, and a sense of stepping back in time.

Highlights & What to See

• Daly Waters Pub – An iconic outback pub with walls plastered in memorabilia, from banknotes to bras. It’s a living museum of traveller history and a great spot for a counter meal or a cold beer.
• Old Daly Waters – Wander the historic precinct where the original Overland Telegraph Line passed through. Look for the old post office and the remains of the original homestead.
• Daly Waters Aviation Complex – A fascinating piece of WWII history, this airstrip was a key refuelling stop for Allied aircraft. Check out the memorials and the old hangar.
• Outback star-gazing – With virtually no light pollution, the night sky here is spectacular. Bring a blanket and lie back to watch the Milky Way.
• Birdwatching at the local waterholes – The area around Daly Waters is home to diverse birdlife, including brolgas and black kites, especially after rain.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers stop for a couple of hours to soak up the pub atmosphere and explore the historic sites. If you’re self-driving, consider an overnight stay at the pub’s campground or the nearby roadhouse – that way you can enjoy a sunset beer and a full evening under the stars. It’s an ideal half-day break on a longer journey between Katherine and Tennant Creek.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Katherine – Explore the stunning Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park) and the hot springs, just over an hour north.
• Mataranka – Famous for its thermal pools and the historic Elsey Homestead, about 90 minutes north.
• Dunmarra – Another classic outback roadhouse stop, roughly 45 minutes north, with a quirky pub and a dinosaur statue.
• Larrimah – A tiny town with a big personality, known for the Pink Panther statue and the Daly Waters Pub’s rival, the Larrimah Hotel.
• Newcastle Waters – A historic cattle station and township, about an hour south, with heritage buildings and the famous Junction Hotel.

Please check official sources for current details.