About this park
The park’s must-see attraction is created by massive tides of up to 10m. Narrow gaps in two parallel tongues of land mean the tide falls faster than the water can escape. This produces ‘horizontal falls’. And when the tide turns, the falls flow in the opposite direction. Imagine that!
The natural landscape of this marine park is equally mesmerising. Marvel at the beauty of islands with fringing coral reefs and mangrove-lined creeks and bays. Spectacular tidal currents and whirlpools will send you into a spin.
Several rivers in the park have carved spectacular gorges into the sandstone. Just picture the many waterfalls that flow all year round. They’re stunningly decorated with fern banks and fig trees that cling to the sheer rock walls.
You arrive by boat or seaplane and can enjoy ever changing ocean views. Experience the Horizontal Falls. There’s loads of wildlife so keep your eyes peeled and binoculars ready. Whales, snubfin dolphins, sea turtles are just some of the creatures that visit the park.
The dense mangrove swamps are a photographer's dream. Pygmy geese, sacred ibis or estuarine crocodiles may want to pose for you. A good zoom lens is probably wise for the crocs!
This area is steeped in Dambimangari Aboriginal culture. Lalang-garram is an Aboriginal name that evokes the saltwater as a spiritual place of great natural abundance.
World renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough has referred to Lalang Garram / Horizontal Falls as one of the great wonders of the natural world. How will you describe them when you visit?
Review – A thrilling experience
Beautiful awesome nature in action. A true bucket list experience. Words can’t adequately describe this phenomenal place. Karen Z – Trip Advisor
Safety information
Plan when to visit. Read this safety information about what you need to know. Consider traveling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!
- Estuarine crocodiles and box jellyfish are present in the park and there may be strong tidal currents, high winds and infrequent cyclones.
- Please seek advice from the Parks and Wildlife West Kimberley District Office if you are unsure about the safety of an activity you are planning to undertake.
The force of the water from Garaanngaddim (Horizontal Falls) can create treacherous conditions that are dangerous for boaters to navigate.
Skippers are reminded they are responsible for the safety of their vessels and passengers.
In addition to offshore marine safety standards detailed by the Department of Transport, you can stay safe when travelling through Garaanngaddim (Horizontal Falls) by:
- checking the weather, tide and state of flow before entering.
- not travelling through the falls when the tide is rushing through.
A 7km drone exclusion zone surrounding Garaanngaddim (Horizontal Falls) has been created for the safety of seaplanes and helicopters. The area surrounding the falls can become very busy with helicopters and seaplanes landing. For more information on flying remotely piloted aircraft / drones visit Drones in Parks.
Avoid seaplane landing areas and monitor marine channel 16 when in the vicinity of the falls.
Crocs are common, crocs move around and crocs are deadly so Be Crocwise. Download the Crocodile safety and myth busting fact sheet.
Pay attention to all warning signs, however just because a sign isn’t there doesn’t mean crocodiles aren’t present. If you are unsure don't swim, canoe or use small boats in estuaries, tidal rivers or pools and contact the nearest Parks and Wildlife office.
Gallery
Plants, wildlife and fungi
Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded in Lalang-garram / Horizontal Falls Marine Park.
Traditional Owners
We recognise and acknowledge Dambimangari Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of Lalang-garram/Horizontal Falls Marine Park.
You are encouraged to view Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation’s Code of Conduct for visitors to Dambimangari country before entering Lalang-garram/Horizontal Falls Marine Park.
