Whether you live in Darwin or you are just visiting for a short break, there is so much to see and do here. The city is located right on the shore, with a thriving entertainment scene and lots of attractions for tourists as well as locals. Here are our highlights of the key things you will want to try.
- Darwin Waterfront
Unfortunately, visitors to Darwin are often disappointed to learn that crocodile infested waters mean that the sea is mostly off-limits. But that’s no obstacle for water-based fun as the Waterfront boasts two great options for cooling off in the summer sun. There is a wave pool as well as an inland lagoon, and most hotels in Darwin also offer swimming pools for you to splash around in, you can check out some out here.
- Deckchair Cinema
From April to November, you can sit down at the edge of the harbour to watch films on a big screen out in the open. There are blockbusters on offer as well as independent films, and you can either get food there or bring your own. It’s a pretty spectacular way to enjoy the big films on release.
- Bynoe Harbour
One thing you will definitely want to try in the winter is heading on a tour to Bynoe Harbour around sunset. This is the time when female turtles come to lay their eggs, and a little later you can also witness the hatchlings making that first precarious run to the water. Many of them don’t make it for one reason or another, but it’s a beautiful sight and really displays the power of nature at its finest.
- Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
What’s better than a great sunset? Watching it on the beach. And what’s better than a beach sunset? Watching it with a plate of delicious international food and a great drink. That is what you can enjoy at Mindil Beach, where the markets on Thursday and Sunday coincide with the sun going down. Bring a towel or blanket to sit on the beach and watch the stars come out while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
- Kakadu
Kakadu is a pretty magical place, with stunning natural features such as cascading waterfalls and giant crocodiles. You can also view historic rock art put there by aboriginals long before the city was established. The Gunlom Top climb rewards you with a clear plunge pool and views over the rest of the park.
- The Royal Darwin Show
One thing you can’t miss in Darwin every July is the Royal Darwin Show, a spectacular of entertainment and shows that will definitely keep you occupied. Vintage cars are on display alongside fine examples of Australian livestock, and homemade street food is the order of the day when it comes to dining. You can purchase local produce to take home for later as well. It’s really a celebration of the local area and all that it has to offer.
No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something going on that you will seriously enjoy. That’s why Darwin is such a fantastic city to visit.
Main picture by Jeff P
Lived in England since 1998 and travelled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries on 5 continents. Writer, blogger, photographer with a passion for adventure and travel, discovering those off beat places not yet on the tourist trail. Marco contributes the very best in independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.
