Explore the Natural Wonders of Australia: A Guide to the Top 13 Things to do in Darwin

Best Things to do in Darwin

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So you’re looking for the best things to do in Darwin. Get ready as this place is loaded with things to do, but before you go anywhere make sure to read this article through and through.

Located in Northern Australia, Darwin is a tropical paradise. It’s essentially where the desert (Outback) meets the tropics. Making Darwin the perfect destination for many Australians during the cooler winter months. (yes it gets chilly in the south)

Try to visit during the dry season because you do not want to be stuck in any monsoon or flash floods.

So what are the best things to do in Darwin? Let me show you!

Explore Kakadu National Park

If you’re looking for the ultimate Aussie experience look no further than Kakadu National Park. It’s one of the largest national parks in Australia. It’s definitely one of the most sought-after things to do in Darwin.

When visiting Kakadu be ready to experience and see the most wildlife you’ve ever seen. From 10-foot-long crocodiles all the way to Kangaroos and exotic birds.

Just note that most Kakadu tours from Darwin leave bright and early!

Best way to get there: Get a tour. No questions asked!

Distance from Darwin: 4:23 hours – 430km

Recommended Kakadu Tour: Kakadu Wilderness Escape Day Tour.

Mindil Beach Sunset MarketsMindil Beach Sunset Markets

Open from late April to late October (4pm to 9pm) Sunset Market is one of the best things to do in Darwin during sunset because once the sun goes down the locals come out to party!

With loads of food stalls, souvenir shops, and the occasional didgeridoo player, it’s an evening not to miss.

The market is always a great way to end the evening. So go out, grab some food and enjoy!

Best way to get there: Walking or local transport (E-Scooters)

Distance from Darwin: 10 mins – 6km

Swim at the Mataranka Hot Springs

Mataranka is not exactly a Darwin day trip, but it’s worth a mention. If you’re driving up to Darwin or heading to Uluru, definitely go for a dip in this crystal clear natural hot spring. It’s a must-do in Darwin, do not skip this!

Surrounded by tropical trees and wildlife, it’s a surreal experience you will never forget and is definitely is one of my favorite things to do in Darwin to unwind.

Best way to get there: Rental car or any tour.

Distance from Darwin: 3:00 hours – 171km

Visit Litchfield National Park (Wangi Falls)

I love this place. It’s a true oasis in the middle of the desert. Literally!

Located 90 min from Darwin, it makes for a great day trip near Darwin.

So, bring your swimsuit, and sunscreen and enjoy the afternoon.

NOTE: Follow the signs when swimming (swim at your own risk) as there are alligators roaming around.

Best way to get there: Tour or rental vehicle.

Distance from Darwin: 90 min – 120km

Swim at the Darwin Wave Lagoon

With hot weather all year round in Darwin, the lagoon is a lifesaver for many locals and international travelers.

Making it a much safer alternative to the beaches or swimming holes, as they are typically croc-infested.

This is one of the best free things to do in Darwin if you’re on a budget, and the best part… they supply both boogie boards and tubes for your enjoyment.

Make sure to bring your sunscreen and to slip, slap slop as they say in Australia. The sun is unforgiving in Darwin.

NOTE: From October to April, known as the wet season, storms can pose a danger and they will not hesitate to shut down immediately for safety reasons.

Best way to get there: Local transit or walking.

Distance from Darwin: 5min – 2km

Visit The Darwin Museum and Art Gallery (MAGNT)

Not sure if you want to see art or history… Lucky for you, this museum has both!

With loads of historic artifacts dating back 60000 thousand years, make your way around this fascinating tourist attraction and learn all about Darwin’s history.

So if you’re a history buff this is one of those things to do in Darwin that is quite fascinating! Have a look for yourself; MAGNT.

Best way to get there: Local transit or walking.

Distance from Darwin: 10min – 8km

Relax at Berry Springs Nature Park

Berry Springs was actually part of a rest and relaxation camp during WW2 for over 100 000 troops, and it is open from 8:00 to 6:30pm, and 10-4pm on weekends.

Bring your hiking boots or shoes if you decide to walk the loop.

Last but not least if you’re a bird watcher, make sure to bring your equipment. This place is loaded with wildlife.

NOTE: Swim at your own risk as well. Especially during the wet season. This shallow spring makes the perfect home for crocodiles.

Best way to get there: 4×4 rental vehicle.

Distance from Darwin: 37min – 50km

Make your own Didgeridoo

One of the top things to do in Darwin is to build your very own Didgeridoo. Take full advantage of this while you’re there.

Several shops around town offer day trip where you go in the bush to find your own tree, chop it down and start carving away.

If you’re lazy like me, you can go buy one at a local store such as the Didgeridoo Shop.

I know you’re probably saying…”now I have to carry this thing around with me”…

Here’s the best part…every post office in Australia (especially in Darwin) has Didgeridoo boxes so that you can send them home.

NOTE: The box has a limit of 6 feet and costs around 100$ (depending on where you’re sending it) So do not buy a Didgeridoo more than 6 feet high.

If you’re looking for another hot spring to take a dip in, make sure you check out Douglas Hot Springs. It’s one of those places to visit in Darwin that you will never want to leave.

While you’re there keep an eye out for native birds. You might just see some pretty cool ones!

Always check road conditions before going. During the wet season, the roads get really bad. Like I mean, uncrossable.

NOTE: Always be on the lookout for crocodiles. (swim at own risk)

Best way to get there: 4×4 rental vehicle.

Distance from Darwin: 2:00 hours – 200km.

Go Visit The Tiwi Islands

Located 80km north of Darwin, the Tiwi Islands are a chain of nine islands inhabited by the Aborigines who have lived there for more than 7000 years, and is a must do in Darwin.

Not only do these islands have so much culture and history they are also sanctuaries for endangered bird species such as the Knot and so many more exotic birds. It’s truly a bird watcher paradise. So make sure to bring your best camera.

Best way to get there: Ferry (Best to take a tour).

Distance from Darwin: 3 hours – 105km.

Recommended Tours: Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Culture Tour with Lunch

Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)

Inhabited by the Jawoyn people for thousands of years, Nitmiluk National Park is another national wonder which attracts people from all over the world, and is a must do in Darwin.

It is home to the stunning Edith Falls, making it another great swimming hole for those hot days.

NOTE: There is both a lower and upper pool that you can enjoy. So make sure to bring your swimsuit.

With all essential amenities present, Katherine Gorge makes for great day trip from Darwin.

Best way to get there: I recommend a day tour.

Distance from Darwin: 3.5 hours – 278km.

Test your luck at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort

Known as the second casino to ever open in Australia. The Mindil Beach Casino Resort has been a fixture in Darwin since 1983, and it’s fun for the whole family also.

Not only is it a casino, but it is also an entire resort for you to relax at. So if gambling is not your thing, simply go to relax and have a drink and swim in the pool.

Best way to get there: Public transport.

Distance from Darwin: 11min – 9km.

Have a drink at the Daly Waters Pub

This rackety Outback watering hole is one of the oldest and best things to do in Darwin. It has been a staple in the region attracting people from all over the globe for decades. It’s a must-stop for every traveler passing through.

With live music, every night, and accommodation on-site, this pub makes for the ultimate Australian experience to tell your friends back home.

Best way to get there: Rental car or Tour bus.

Distance from Darwin: 6h05min – 589km.

Where to stay in Darwin

After experiencing all the best things to do in Darwin, you’re left with very few options as Darwin is extremely isolated from the rest of Australia.

You can either fly out, take a boat or do the next best thing and make your way down to Alice Springs (aka, the red center), and explore the rest of what Australia has to offer.

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