Stay and play – Darwin, NT

A vibrant but laidback tropical city overlooking a glorious harbour, Darwin is a destination that captivates at every turn. 

Where is it?

Darwin is 1495km north of Alice Springs (14hr 35min drive).

By air, Brisbane to Darwin is approximately a 3hr 35m flight, a 4hr 10m flight from Melbourne, and 4hr 15m from Sydney.

Why go?

For the feeling of being somewhere completely different without having to leave Australia. The Northern Territory capital and its surrounds deliver a wide assortment of fascinating experiences that will likely remain etched in your memory. 

The essentials – things to do in Darwin, NT

Crocosaurus Cove

This is a standout Darwin attraction, allowing up-close viewing of imposing saltwater crocodiles alongside a huge display of Australian reptiles. Its famous Cage of Death crocodile dive is an exhilarating experience for those who are game!

Crocodylus Park

Continue the intimate and engrossing animal encounters with a visit to this popular wildlife park. The likes of lions and meerkats feature together with loads of crocs, and a jumping crocodile cruise is among an enthralling line-up of daily activities.

Darwin Waterfront

This CBD precinct has must-visit status written all over it. The assortment of seaside cafés, restaurants, and bars are ideal places to unwind, particularly on a balmy night.

Adding to the area’s ability to pull a crowd are a recreation lagoon, parklands, and a playground alongside a wave lagoon and aqua park; the latter both requiring admission fees. 

Darwin Harbour sunset cruise

The waterfront is the departure point for this essential Darwin activity. Various cruise options are available and are the perfect way to soak up a magical Darwin sunset.

Darwin Military Museum

Retrace the city’s evocative World War II history via the museum’s interactive Defence of Darwin Experience. This first-class attraction has a strong focus on the 1942 Bombing of Darwin and recounts this significant event in powerful style.

World War II Darwin Oil Storage Tunnels

For more exploration of Darwin’s war past, head underground and explore the city’s fascinating storage tunnels. Various photos and displays are dotted along the way, making for a thought-provoking self-guided tour.

George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

The sprawling tropical gardens are spotted on the CBD’s fringes and are dominated by botanic beauties found in northern Australia. Things to see and do abound, with a Segway tour among the highlights.

East Point Reserve

There are more scenic surrounds to encounter at this spacious reserve, home to walking trails, playgrounds, a lake, and historical remnants, among more. This is an excellent place for a BBQ or picnic as well as a popular site to take in a memorable sunset. Alternatively, head to Casuarina Coastal Reserve.

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

Culture and history combine at this excellent, multi-faceted attraction. View outstanding works that form part of permanent and touring exhibitions, including . Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. And don’t miss the dedicated Cyclone Tracy exhibition among much, much more.  

Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility

Continue the heritage theme with a visit to this absorbing attraction. Various interactive exhibitions delve into the founding of an iconic Australian organisation as well as recounting wider Darwin history.

Deckchair Cinema

Located on the edge of Darwin Harbour, this is a wonderful outdoor cinema experience that runs each night from April-November. Titles include family favourites to foreign films.

Mindil Beach Sunset Market

This icon showcases Darwin’s rich multicultural influence with an atmosphere and flavour likened to a Southeast Asian night market. More than 200 stalls feature a huge assortment of tasty treats as well as arts and craft. It all takes place from 4-9pm each Thursday and Sunday evening from late April-late October.

Alternatively, the Nightcliff Markets offer fun for the senses each Sunday morning.

Must-visit attractions near Darwin, NT

Berry Springs Nature Park

A gorgeous area, Berry Springs features inviting swimming pools in serene, shaded surrounds. They are perfect for a refreshing dip after exploring the park on various walking tracks that showcase such sights as monsoon forest, bird life, and World War II relics.

Distance: 50km south of Darwin and 35km south of BIG4 Howard Springs. 

Fogg Dam Conservation Area

This area is highly regarded for its ease of accessibility to stunning wetlands, which are home to wildlife, birds, and marine creatures. It can all be viewed on a network of walking tracks.

Distance: 65km east of Darwin and 45km east of BIG4 Howard Springs. 

Daytrips from Darwin, NT

Litchfield National Park

Towering termite mounds, cascading waterfalls and their swimming pools, and historical ruins are among a mountain of treasure to explore within the vast confines of Litchfield. Not to be missed.

Distance: Approx. 120km south of Darwin and 95km south of BIG4 Howard Springs.

Kakadu National Park

You simply cannot visit Darwin without taking a daytrip to Kakadu. Australia’s largest national park is also one of its most significant, evidenced by its World Heritage status. Variable landscapes and eye-popping natural features – from waterfalls to wetlands – jostle for attention along with ancient Aboriginal rock art.

Distance: 250km east of Darwin (to Jabiru) and 230km east of BIG4 Howard Springs.

Random fact

Although the city was named after British evolutionist Charles Darwin, the famous figure never visited the area. The location was given its name by Lt. John Lort Stokes who was a former shipmate of Darwin.

Accommodation in Darwin, NT

Searching for Darwin holiday parks? We have two options to choose from.

Each delivers a generous assortment of first-rate cabin accommodation alongside ample caravan and camping sites.

BIG4 Hidden Valley Holiday Park

Park type: Holiday

Planted only 10km from the CBD, BIG4 Hidden Valley is the ideal accommodation option when exploring the Top End.

A café, swimming pool, BBQ areas, and a playground are among the leading in-park features, all dotted around attractive tropical gardens. Pet lovers take note: dogs are welcome on sites.

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BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park

Park type: Holiday

Teeming with lush gardens and boasting excellent amenities, BIG4 Howard Springs has built a reputation as a favourite among travellers.

In-park attractions are highlighted by three resort-style pools, a water park with tipping bucket, a jumping pillow with shade sails, TV/movie room, camp kitchen, and BBQ areas. Dogs are welcome on sites here, too.

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Isn’t it time you explored Darwin? Plan your Top End adventures with BIG4 now. Start by choosing a park below.