destination darwin
Darwin is a lively harbour city well-known as Australia’s gateway to world-class nature and cultural activities and experiences. With a population in excess of 130,000, it is a destination renowned for its tropical climate and colourful characters.
Situated on the edge of a harbour bigger than Sydney's, Darwin is a beautiful, fascinating tropical city – a melting pot of people and cultures that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. While a sophisticated, modern city in its own right, it is also one steeped in history, one that has endured many hardships on its way to establishing itself as the gateway to Asia. It is the home of NT commerce and business and with its world-class natural and cultural attractions it is also a thriving hub of activity in terms of tourism, nightlife and retail. Here are just a few of the attractions well worth visiting while you are in town.
Wave lagoon– large lagoon pool with up to 1.2 metre high waves with bogey boards and floating rings provided for our enjoyment. Or take time out to relax on a sun-lounge under the shady umbrellas and enjoy Darwin’s warm balmy weather. Open daily 10am – 6pm
Dining – As a city with over 60 nationalities living and working together in harmony, Darwin offers visitors a wide choice of superb international cuisine from authentic Italian pasta, hot Indian curries and flavoursome Thai cuisine, to the perfect Aussie steak. Or sample specialities of the NT including kangaroo, buffalo, crocodile, camel, as well as the fresh local seafood. The range of places to dine in Darwin is extensive with many offering alfresco dining and stunning water views.
Shopping – Darwin offers some unique opportunities for shopping. Whether you are looking for a piece of original Aboriginal artwork, an exquisite piece of hand-crafted jewellery, unique local produce, summer clothing or a souvenir of your visit, you are sure to find something to appeal in the range and quality of goods available in Darwin’s shops and galleries.
Protected beach – providing a safe patrolled swimming beach to cool off year round
Seaside promenade – Providing scenic harbour views from a winding waterfront boardwalk
Parks and gardens – wide, open parklands with picnic and play areas
Public art – integrated amongst the buildings, amenities and public spaces, celebrating the diverse cultural influences of the area
Australian Aviation Heritage Centre - Open daily, this centre features an impressive collection of the Territory's aviation history from the aviation pioneers and record breakers to the Territory's frontier role in WWII. There is a massive B52 Bomber, Mirage and Sabre jets, a Spitfire replica and Wessex and Huey Cobra helicopters. The development of the jet age is depicted through displays and photographs and the Bombing of Darwin exhibition here is a must see.
Museum and Art Gallery of the NT - The museum, situated at Bullocky Point, features collections of the region's art, natural science, history and culture. Encompassing Aboriginal art and culture, arts and craft from south-east Asia and Pacific regions, maritime archaeology and Northern Territory history, the museum also houses a great Cyclone Tracy exhibit and the chance to meet Sweetheart, the Top End’s most famous crocodile.
WWII Oil storage Tunnels - One of the most interesting constructions in Darwin during WWII was the oil storage tunnels located near the Darwin Waterfront Precinct. Today, there are two tunnels open for viewing featuring a collection of photographs of Darwin and the men and women that served here during the war. An experienced guide will take you through the tunnels with informative commentary.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets - Held every Thursday and Sunday night from April 25th to October, these are Darwin's largest and most popular weekly markets. They feature a multitude of stalls offering international cuisine, arts, crafts and entertainment. The combination of great food and an electric atmosphere make it a must visit. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach while watching a spectacular tropical sunset. Other popular markets worth visiting are the Saturday morning Parap Village Markets, the Sunday morning Nightcliff Markets and Rapid Creek Markets (Darwin's oldest markets) and Palmerston's Friday night markets.
East Point Reserve and Lake Alexander - This recreational area has extensive walking and cycling paths, relaxing picnic areas with free barbecue facilities and safe, year-round swimming in Lake Alexander. The reserve is also home to Darwin's East Point Military Museum, which houses an extensive collection of photographs and informative displays including the Defence of Darwin Experience - an immersive, interactive, multimedia experience of the story of Darwin's role in World War II. East Point is also well known for its wallaby colony and is one of the best sites in Darwin for watching sunsets.
Darwin Cinema - The Top End is host to a wide range of incredible, world-class, unique events. Experience the magic of moonlight cinema at the Darwin Waterfront. Deckchair Cinema is THE MUST-DO outdoor cinema located under the stars and screens films 7 nights a week from mid-April to mid-November. The box office is open nightly from 6:30pm, with films starting promptly at the advertised time. The outdoor setting, on the edge of Darwin Harbour is stunning: watch the sunset over the sea and enjoy the tropical garden setting with a meal and a drink before your movie starts.
Fishing - Darwin has a great range of facilities for visiting anglers. Daily bluewater charters depart Cullen Bay Marina, and professional fishing guides can pick you up from your hotel for a one-day or extended barra fishing tour. There are also a number of boat hire outlets and tackle shops.
Crocodile Experiences - Visit Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin City or watch in awe as ferocious pre-historic crocs jump & snap for their food feed by your guide as you enjoy a scenic cruise down the Adelaide River.
DARWIN WEATHER
Darwin in the Top End of the Northern Territory has two distinct seasons, the 'wet' and the 'dry'. While November to April is referred to as the ‘wet', and May to October is the ‘dry' season; in the vast expanse of Kakadu National Park, the local Aboriginal people recognise six different seasons. The wet season is characterised by high humidity, monsoonal rains and storms. Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 25°C to a maximum of 33°C. The dry season is typically warm with dry sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures typically range from 21°C to 32°C, and humidity levels are much lower.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Tourism Top End Visitor Information Centre is a one-stop shop for visitor information, maps, accommodation and tour bookings for Darwin and the Top End. It’s friendly and helpful consultants can provide free travel advice, ideas and itineraries to best suit your interests, timeframe and budget. It is located on the corner of Bennett and Smith Streets in the City Centre and opens 7 days a week.
There are plenty of online resources to help plan your conference itinerary including pre and post touring ideas.
