Originally occupied by the Indigenous peoples of the Larrakia tribes, the land at and surrounding Little Mindil has undergone various incarnations since colonial settlement. In the early 20th century, the area was home to Chinese market gardens before being used for military purposes during World War II. Throughout this time, Mindil Beach was popular for picnics, camping, swimming and recreation. The casino on the adjacent lot was built in the early 1980s and the popular sunset markets began trade in 1987.