What to do in Darwin

From lazy days by the beach lagoon, striking street art as you meander the city streets, unique bar and dining options to cruising the harbour and swimming under waterfalls, Darwin and surrounds delivers a holiday with a difference.

Darwin Waterfront precinct

This is the place to be in Darwin for that resort holiday feel. Complete with a beautiful man-made beach lagoon and separate Wave Pool, the vibrant waterfront is surrounded by retail shops and a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants, perfect for a coffee, relaxing meal or sundowner drinks. You will generally find something on here too, from free Asana yoga, free aqua fitness classes and fantastic events year-round.

Street Art

After just a few steps in the city streets you will be presented by the iconic Darwin Street Art, that adorn the building walls throughout the city. The interactive app for this free public art gallery will guide you through the art trail consisting of 11 public artworks and spaces, including murals, mosaics, sculpture and glass work. 

Markets

A trip to this tropical capital is not complete without visiting at least one of its bustling markets full of local and exotic produce, unique shopping, local entertainment and amazing food! Join the locals and tourists at the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, Nightcliff Markets, Parap Village Markets and Rapid Bay Markets for a true Darwin experience. 

Shopping

Retail therapy in Darwin is always going to be different. From stunning Aboriginal paintings, sculptures and textiles, elegant jewellery from world-renowned Paspaley Pearls, local designs from stylish boutiques to bags, belts and shoes made from Australian saltwater crocodile skin or exotic homewares.

Dining

Dining in Darwin is often alfresco during the dry season given the temperate weather or in air-conditioned comfort year-round at one of the many fantastic eating spots throughout the city and outskirts. Try Pee Wees at the Point for elegant Australian dining in a spectacular setting overlooking Darwin, Hanuman Darwin for a culinary journey through South East Asia, Stokes Hill Wharf for great priced fresh seafood right on the water and renowned steakhouse, Char Restaurant, in the beautiful historic building of Admiralty House. 

Drinks

Darwin is teeming with bars and pubs, new and old, and it’s easy to find a watering hole to suit your mood. With year-round warm weather, there is nothing better than a refreshing drink and perhaps some acoustic music as the sun sets and the balmy evening air sets in. Check out popular Lola’s Pergola in the boat-filled Cullen Bay, the local meeting place and favourite, Hotel Darwin, with a great selection of beers on tap or the Trailer Boat Club for a perfect, relaxed drinks setting overlooking the beach. 

Fishing

Fishing in Darwin is an angler’s paradise with the huge Darwin Harbour, Timor Sea and Shoal Bay all feeding into the Darwin peninsula with numerous boat ramps providing easy access to the surrounding blue waters. Prime catches here include barramundi, reef fish, jewfish and golden snapper with a variety of fishing charters available for extended fishing tours or you can even try your hand at the annual Million Dollar Fish competition (operating seasonally).

Sailing around

For a fantastic evening on the water you can’t go past a Darwin sunset cruise. Sail around the sparkling Darwin Harbour and embrace the Top End lifestyle as you witness a famous Darwin sunset, drink in hand and unforgettable memories made. Add on canapes or dinner for something extra special.

Explore further

Darwin is often the gateway for visiting Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park. Explore the stunning waterfalls and waterholes and monsoonal forests of Litchfield on an easy day trip from Darwin. Or, stay overnight (even longer if you have time) in the beautiful World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park to take in the wonders of the ancient culture and the incredible scenery.

Click here for our Top End holidays in Darwin or contact our NT Now team on 1800 854 897 or deals@ntnow.com.au

Image credit: Pee Wees at the Point, Hanuman, Darwin Harbour Cruises, Tourism NT - Lucy Ewing, Jewels Lynch

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