Itinerary
Accommodation:
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade Darwin is located next to the Darwin Entertainment Centre and overlooks the palm-lined esplanade, with stunning ocean views also available from select rooms. All rooms have been newly refurbished, and the hotel also boasts the largest outdoor swimming pool in Darwin, as well as free WiFi, a fitness room and beauty salon. While being located on the esplanade, the DoubleTree is also within walking distance of many Darwin hotspots, eateries and shopping areas. A later check out time of 1pm will also mean a relaxing end to your stay in Darwin.
What to do:
Join our Jumping Crocodile Cruise tour from Darwin for a truly exhilarating and unique experience. Get up close and personal to some of nature’s most aggressive and dangerous wildlife located in the naturally occurring waterways of the Northern Territory. It is said that Australia’s Top End hosts over a 100,000 estuarine crocodiles predominantly in and around the Darwin, Adelaide River and Mary River areas.
See the biggest reptile in the world and oldest creature to walk the planet since dinosaurs, these prehistoric beasts growing up to 6 meters in length (the size of a small bus) and can weigh up to 1000kg. An infamous crocodile called “Sweetheart” was captured not too far from the Adelaide River after repeatedly chewing the motors off the back of fisherman's boats and stealing the farmers cows. Sweetheart, unfortunately, passed away and can now be seen taxidermied in the Darwin Museum.
Experience a Casino Royale Jetski Tour - Starting from Dock One at Darwin Waterfront, cruise at full throttle (or a more leisurely pace – you decide) along sun drenched, unspoilt coastlines while spotting marine life, feeding fish and enjoying the thrill of the pristine, open water.
Sightseeing in the NT’s capital city is easy with the Big Bus Darwin Hop on Hop off sightseeing tour which will allow you to customise your Darwin experience while also learning interesting facts via the entertaining audio commentary provided on the bus. The popular drop-off spots include the beautiful George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Crocosaurus Cove, Stokes Hill Wharf and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
A historic Darwin food lover’s destination is the Stokes Hill Wharf which is conveniently located right next to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility. The wharf provides a range of alfresco dining within both the Port and Starboard Arcades alongside casual restaurant dining. All eateries specialize in fresh seafood and steak which can be enjoyed while taking in the panoramic ocean views or the famed Darwin sunsets.
Discover the vibrant heart of Darwin's social scene at The Precinct Tavern, nestled perfectly on the iconic Waterfront. Since 2012, this modern pub has become a beloved local destination, offering a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Explore three distinct bars, each showcasing a curated selection of craft beers, fine wines, and expertly mixed cocktails. Indulge in a menu of contemporary pub fare, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and savor every bite in their award-winning beer garden. With breathtaking views of the waterfront, The Precinct Tavern provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments, whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a casual meal, or simply soaking in the Darwin vibe.
Location & how to get there
Darwin International Airport (darwinairport.com.au) is serviced by many Domestic and Regional airline carriers including Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Air North. Flights mainly operate out of Australia’s capital cities and generally take between 3 – 4 hours.
The airport is about a 15-minute drive from the centre of town. The Darwin Airport Shuttle meets all domestic and international flights and departs from the front of the terminal. Car hire is available from the counters close to the baggage carousels. There are also plenty of taxis available at the airport cab rank and private transfers can be pre-booked.
Darwin can also be reached by The Ghan, from Adelaide or Alice Springs, with trains arriving weekly on Tuesdays. While the rail station is situated a short drive from the city centre, free transfers are offered to all passengers.
For those driving there are a number of entry ways to access Darwin. Most roads are sealed however some are for the more adventurous 4 wheel drivers. If you are coming from Queensland the best route to take is the Overlander’s Way / Barkly Highway from Mt Isa. If you are leaving from Cairns you can take the Savannah Way which is a rugged, unsealed road which crosses the top of Australia from Cairns to Broome. You can also use the Savannah Way as an access from Western Australia. Other roads leading from WA to Darwin include the Tanami Road that runs across the Tanami Desert and to the north the Butine Highway. The drive from South Australia is especially scenic as you follow the Explorer’s Way through Coober Pedy and past the major centres of Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine before arriving in Darwin.
