Daly Waters

Daly Waters is a tiny outback settlement in the Northern Territory that packs an outsized punch for travellers. Famous for the iconic Daly Waters Pub—a ramshackle, memorabilia-clad oasis—this spot is a classic stop on the Stuart Highway, offering a taste of larrikin outback hospitality and a fascinating history as a former air force base and overland telegraph station.

Highlights & What to See

• Daly Waters Pub: A legendary outback pub plastered with thousands of banknotes, bras, and business cards left by travellers from around the world. Grab a cold beer, enjoy a steak, and soak up the eccentric atmosphere.
• Historic Daly Waters Airfield: Once a key refuelling stop for Qantas and the Royal Australian Air Force during WWII, the old hangars and airstrip are now a fascinating relic. Look for the memorials and interpretive signs.
• Overland Telegraph Station Ruins: Explore the remains of the telegraph repeater station, established in 1872, which connected Australia to the rest of the world. The stone foundations and interpretive panels tell the story.
• Stuart Highway Antics: The pub is a magnet for characters—chat with fellow travellers, road-trippers, and grey nomads who swap tales of the outback.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors stop for a couple of hours to stretch their legs, explore the historic sites, and have a meal or drink at the pub. If you want to camp overnight at the pub's caravan park or nearby rest area, you can also enjoy the sunset over the scrubby plains. Daly Waters is best as a short break on a longer drive between Alice Springs and Katherine or Darwin.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mataranka: Famous for its thermal pools and Bitter Springs, about 90 km north—a perfect spot for a soak after a dusty drive.
• Larrimah: A quirky outpost with the Pink Panther pub and the world's largest termite mound, 30 km south.
• Newcastle Waters: A historic droving town with a restored homestead and the legendary Junction Hotel, about 100 km north.
• Katherine: Gateway to Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge, 200 km north—a major hub for outdoor adventures.
• Dunmarra: Another classic roadhouse stop with a dinosaur-themed mini-golf course, 100 km north of Daly Waters.

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