Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and is quite a quirky place. Whilst there is not as much to do as perhaps there is on the Eastern Coast, Darwin has a charm all of its own and is worth a visit. Just remember to bring along your loose clothing as it can get humid here like you wouldn’t believe!
Let’s just jump straight into it shall we? Here are some fun things to do in Darwin…
Go on a crocodile cruise
This has to be one of my most favourite things to do in Darwin. Yes, we are in crocodile territory here, and whilst it sounds scary, you really feel quite safe on the boat as the staff are great.
I was surprised that the crocs come right up next to you, without a barrier at the side of the boat, but don’t worry, they are more interested in the pieces of dangled meat used as bait.
Some of these crocs are HUGE and it was so nice to see them in their natural habitat and the way they move across the water. You can easily book these tours from a number of operators in town.
Explore Lichfield National Park
Lichfield National Park is situated 100 km south-west of Darwin (around an hour’s drive) and is an awesome place to explore, with 260,000 visitors arriving each year. The park has forests and plenty of waterfall walks, all of which are stunning.
You can also swim in the waterholes, which, believe me, is very refreshing under the hot Darwin sun.
Visit the Mindil Beach Market
The Mindil beach market is popular with Darwin’s locals and tourists alike, and a great place for family and friends to catch up. When I first arrived, there was a buzz of activity, and watching the aboriginal dancers move to the sounds of the didgeridoo from the band performing was super unique.
There is live music, dancing, henna stalls, plenty of food and drink to enjoy, craft, clothing stalls and everything else! Soak up and enjoy the atmosphere.
Enjoy a Good Sunset
Darwin has some incredible sunsets. I remember walking along the promenade section close to town, and just standing there for an hour watching the sun go down- it was really surreal. A famous sunset to check out is at the Mindil beach markets, where the sun sets over the ocean.
Grab a beer and sit and enjoy the magic of a Darwin sunset, you will not regret it.
Swim with a Crocodile!
Crocosaurus Cove is a popular attraction in the city of Darwin, where you can get up close and personal with huge crocs. There are several different cages to explore, as well as getting in one of that is your thing! You can literally get your face right in front of them, with only a glass container between you.
There are also reptiles and the big croc show, where they will show off their skills. Situated a little bit further out is Crocodylus park, which is a little bigger and has more natural enclosures, etc. It is also a zoo, so they have other animals there, including big cats, monkeys, birds, and snakes.
Feed a Crocodile
Noticing a pattern here? Yes, there are a lot of crocodile related things to do in this city! This activity can be found at Crocosaurus Cove and is a more mild activity then getting in the water with the big crocodiles.
This attraction is done with the smaller crocodiles and is a fun activity for kids and adults. Isn’t it cool to say you have fed a crocodile its meal?!
Swim in the Darwin Lagoon
When I say lagoon, it is actually the ocean, but they have created a sort of harbour type thing, with nets out further out, so no crocs, sharks or jellyfish can get in- eek! Generally, it is not safe to swim this far up north, but this safe space allows you to still get an ocean swim in- kind of!
Right next to this is also the wave pool, where for around $7, you can jump in on simulated waves. Grab a floaty device for this- even more fun!
Wander Around Town
And lastly, a simple wander around town can be an interesting couple of hours. The city has lots of quirky shops, markets, a botanical garden, and street performers in the evenings. Take a stroll and see what you come across!
Thanks for reading this post on things to do in Darwin. If you are looking for more things to do in Australia, then check out my Aussie page.
