Buley Rockhole

Buley Rockhole is a series of cascading rock pools in Litchfield National Park, offering one of the Top End's most refreshing swims. The crystal-clear water flows over sandstone shelves into deep, cool plunge holes surrounded by monsoon forest, making it a perfect natural waterpark for a hot day.

Highlights & What to See

• Swim in the rock pools – The main attraction is the chain of pools connected by small waterfalls; you can float from one pool to the next or find a secluded spot to soak.
• Walk the Buley Rockhole loop – A short 200-metre track leads from the car park to the pools; explore upstream to find quieter pools away from the main area.
• Combine with Florence Falls – Just a 2-km drive away, Florence Falls offers a larger waterfall and a plunge pool for swimming, often less crowded than Buley.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for rainbow lorikeets, frill-necked lizards, and, if you're lucky, black-footed tree-kangaroos in the surrounding woodland.
• Picnic in the shade – There are picnic tables and grassy areas near the car park; pack a lunch to enjoy under the tall paperbark trees.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for 1–2 hours to fully enjoy the pools, though many visitors linger longer on a hot day. Arrive early (before 10am) or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially in the dry season (May–October). The pools are less busy on weekdays. If you're combining with Florence Falls and Wangi Falls, allocate a full day for Litchfield National Park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Florence Falls – A short drive away, with a 15-metre waterfall and a large swimming hole; the 1.6-km Florence Creek Walk links the two spots.
• Wangi Falls – Litchfield's most iconic waterfall, with a huge plunge pool and a café; arrive early to secure parking.
• Tolmer Falls – A scenic viewpoint overlooking a double-drop waterfall; swimming is not allowed, but the view is spectacular.
• Batchelor – The gateway town to Litchfield, with accommodation, supplies, and the historic Batchelor Museum.
• Darwin – About 1.5 hours' drive north; use Darwin as your base to explore the entire Top End, including Kakadu National Park.

Please check official sources for current details.