What can you see and do in Darwin? Darwin has some unique activities to experience from sunset cruises, crocodile feeding, national park tours, food tours and more. There is so much to see and do in Darwin you will need to spend at least one week to enjoy all that the city and surrounds has to offer the visitor.
We share with you the top things to do in Darwin and recommendations on where to eat around the Darwin Waterfront.
A good area to stay in Darwin is the Darwin Waterfront area with its good range of hotels and apartments available.
If you choose to rent a campervan and travel around the Northern Territory click here for more information.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure for more information.
There are plenty of Darwin activities to suit all members of your family, couples and solo travellers.
Darwin Waterfront’s Saltwater Lagoon – open daily, patrolled by lifeguards from 9 am to 6 pm, free entry. Swim at the Wave Lagoon.
Take the family to Darwin’s Aqua Park: great family fun for all, adventures from the age of 6+
Address: 19b Kitchener Drive Darwin
Take a Sunset Cruise from Stokes Hill Wharf This experience departs from Dock 3 at the far end of Stokes Hill Wharf, Darwin NT 0801, 500 metres from the Waterfront.
Darwin is famous for its golden sunsets and there is no better place to witness the magic than aboard a 2.5 sunset cruise in the Darwin Harbour while dining on an indulgent grazing platter and locally made desserts. Far away from the crowds, guests can take their seats on the outdoor sun deck offering a prime position for sunset viewing.
Unwind with friends and family and share an unforgettable evening watching a remarkable spectacle of light and colour as the sea and sky transform into stunning hues of pinks, reds, purples and oranges. Toast to another superb day in the tropics with beverages available for purchase onboard. A delicious grazing platter for two and a locally made mango ice cream aboard this Darwin sunset harbour cruise is the perfect way to cap off a day in Darwin.
THIS IS A POPULAR TOUR SO CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
General Admission Tickets to Crocosaurus Cove
Full day entry to Crocosaurus Cove which includes:
- the opportunity to hold a baby crocodile
- big croc feeding and presentation
- fish feeding
- meet the reptiles
- reptile feeding and presentation
- turtle feeding and presentation
- nocturnal reptile feeding
- fishing for crocs and more
Big Croc Feed VIP Experience
Tour description taken from website:
Crocosaurus Cove now gives you the opportunity to get behind the scenes and participate in feeding one of the world’s most deadliest predators, the Saltwater crocodile. The 1.5 hour fully guided tour with our experienced reptile handlers includes:
– An introduction to the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles
– Learn more about the land, the seasons and the reptiles of the Top End
– Look down the jaws of some of the largest saltwater crocodiles on the planet
– Hold some of the most unique critters of the Top End
– Souvenir lanyard and complimentary bottled water during the tour
– Express entry to the Fishing for Crocs platform
– Full-day entry to Crocosaurus Cove
Tours depart 10.00 am & 1.00 pm
Book NowCroc Explorer
Details taken from website:
Combine two of Darwin’s top attractions with the Croc Explorer and save time and money!
This ticket will give you access to Crocosaurus Cove for the day and a 24-hour Hop On Hop Off pass for the Darwin Explorer, which can be used on separate days within a 30-day period.
Please note: Each component of the Combo Ticket can be used within 30 days of your booking. Each component has varying availability:
Crocosaurus Cove: Open daily 9 am-6 pm
Darwin Big Bus: Operating Mondays through Saturdays.
Book NowCroc N History
Taken from website:
“Combine 2 of Darwin’s premier attractions with one ticket and save! The flexible Croc n History package gives you full day entry to Crocosaurus Cove and the RFDS and Bombing of Darwin Tourist facility.
Please note: Each component of the Croc n History pass can be used within 30 days of your first experience. Each component has varying availability:
Crocosaurus Cove: Open daily 9am-6pm
RFDS & Bombing of Darwin Tourist Facility: Open daily 9:30am-4pm”
Croc n History Explorer
Tour description taken from website:
Combine 3 of Darwin’s premier attractions with one ticket and save! The flexible Croc n History Explorer package gives you full day entry to Crocosaurus Cove, the RFDS & Bombing of Darwin Tourist facility + Darwin Explorer hop on hop off bus.
Please note: Each component of the Croc n History Explorer pass can be used within 30 days of your first experience. Each component has varying availability:
Crocosaurus Cove: Open daily 9am-6pm
RFDS & Bombing of Darwin Tourist Facility: Open daily 9:30am-4pm
Darwin Big Bus: Operating Mondays through Saturdays.
RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility General Entry
Tour description taken from website:
“Two Iconic Territory Stories One Iconic Location.
Experience and learn through the wonder of technology as the Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility brings history to life
The Royal Flying Doctor Service:
Using the latest innovations in holographic technology, the life size hologram cinema experience tells the story of Rev John Flynn’s vision and its realisation into the RFDS of today.
Climb aboard a decommissioned RFDS Pilatus PC-12 aircraft completely aero-medically equipped and learn about the activities of the RFDS’s pilots, engineers, doctors, nurses and the experiences of the patients that are carried and cared for each day.
The Bombing of Darwin Harbour
The second iconic story featured is the Bombing of Darwin on 19th February 1942. The bombing of the harbour brought destruction to the city of Darwin, and many of the stories have been brought to life through our innovative technology. This exciting world-class exhibit features cutting edge technology – a hologram cinema experience telling the story of Etheridge Grant, virtual reality and a projection window of the Japanese air attack on the harbour.
Located on Stokes Hill Wharf near Darwin Waterfront, the RFDS Darwin Tourist Precinct is a must see attraction when visiting Australia’s Top End.”
Book NowAviation Attraction Combo Ticket
Tour description take from website:
“Two Iconic Territory Stories across two Darwin Locations
Explore the Northern Territory’s unique aviation history with the Aviation Combo Ticket.
Learn about the birth and growth of the RFDS in the Northern Territory and the Bombing of Darwin Harbour through VR technology and see over 19 aircraft & memorabilia on display.
The RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility and the Darwin Aviation Museum have come together to create a combo ticket giving you access to 2 of Australia’s premier aviation attractions. See history come to life through VR technology, learn about the Bombing of Darwin Harbour & see over 19 aircraft on display.”
Book NowDarwin Harbour Fishing Tours
Sole/Group Charter – Half Day
Tour information taken from website:
“An amazing fishing experience with all your friends! Take up to 8 people and enjoy the day together on your sole charter. Imagine the bragging rights to whoever catches the biggest fish!
Your fishing guides are experienced and know Darwin Harbour like the back of their hand. We pride ourselves on our friendliness and love the great times we have with all our customers. We know how to find fish and importantly we know how to give you the time of your life.
The tides in Darwin are big, frequently between 6-7 metres which has a big effect on fishing. Our boats are custom made to handle the Darwin Harbour tides and we can go where most other operators can’t. You may even see a croc on our fishing charters!
Chiller are available on board.
For all Half Day Charters, the chef is happy to cook up your catch any way you want whole, crumbed, battered or
grilled served with fresh salad and chips or Thailand flavour for $12.50 per person.
They are licensed so you can have a beer or treat yourself to one of their cocktails.”
Book NowHarbour Fishing Half Day
Tour description take from website:
Short travel times give you more fishing time.
Affordable packages to suit everyone.
Experienced guide understands fishing Darwin Harbour all tide time.
Fun and friendly guides for a good laugh.
Custom built vessels can access Darwin Harbour all tides.
For all Half Day Charters, the chef is happy to cook up your catch any way you want whole, crumbed, battered or
grilled served with fresh salad and chips or Thailand flavour for $15.00 per person.
They are licensed so you can have a beer or treat yourself to one of their cocktails.”
Half Day Barra Fishing – Darwin
Tour description taken from website:
“With good reason – Our short travel times ensure you get maximum actual fishing time all over Darwin Harbour. You will be comfortable on board our sturdy boats with walk around deck and shade canopy. Short travel times give you more fishing time. Affordable packages to suit everyone. Experienced guide understands fishing Darwin Harbour all tide time. Fun and friendly guides for a good laugh. Custom built vessels can access Darwin Harbour all tides. For all Half Day Charters, the chef is happy to cook up your catch any way you want whole, crumbed, battered or grilled served with fresh salad and chips or Thailand flavour for $12.50 per person. They are licensed so you can have a beer or treat yourself to one of their cocktails.”
Book NowBarramundi Fishing at Corroboree Billabong Half Day
Tour description taken from website:
“If you want to experience a great day Barra fishing while visiting Darwin, Corroboree Billabong is truly a wonderful place and consistently delivers great Barramundi fishing!
Mixed in with your days of chasing the Top End Barra you can see Lotus Lilies pink flowers in bloom in its full beauty. On this Pandanus lined billabong you can also expect to see a wide variety of Water birds, Sea Eagles, Crocodiles, Water Buffalo and Wild Pigs.
Our experienced Guides will ensure that your Top End fishing experience is a memorable one. And even if you are a rookie in fishing, we will be facilitating you with the necessary tuition to become a pro. From 430am Pick up back after 12 noon to your accommodation.”
Book NowBarramundi Fishing at Corroboree Billabong Full Day
Tour description taken from website:
Book NowLitchfield Park Tours
Darwin to Litchfield is 115 km with an average driving time of 90- 120 minutes
Litchfield National Park + Fogg Dam from Darwin
Tour description taken from website:
OPERATES: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat (May-Oct) / Wed, Fri (Feb, March) Tues, Wed, Fri (April)
DEPARTS: 07:30 am
RETURNS: 18:00 pm
TOUR DURATION: 10:30 Hours
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Travelodge Resort Darwin, 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Uncover the spectacular hidden waterfalls of Litchfield National Park
- Explore the famous cascading plunge pools of Florence Falls, nestled in monsoon forest
- Cool off in shallow pristine pools of Buley Rockhole or Wangi Falls
- Stroll the diverse wetlands boardwalk and observation decks at Fogg Dam Conservation Centre, a bird-watchers paradise and wildlife refuge.
- Visit the impressive century-old Magnetic Termite Mounds located in the Litchfield National Park
- Shhh…. there’s a secret in every tour!
Litchfield National Park + Croc Cruise from Darwin
Tour description taken from website:
“OPERATES: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat (May-Oct) / Wed, Fri (Feb, March) Tues, Wed, Fri (April)
DEPARTS: 07:30am
RETURNS: 18:30pm
TOUR DURATION: 10:30 Hours
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Travelodge Resort Darwin, 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Uncover the spectacular hidden waterfalls of Litchfield National Park
- Explore the famous cascading plunge pools of Florence Falls, nestled in monsoon forest
- Cool off in shallow pristine pools of Buley Rockhole or Wangi Falls
- Get your heart racing with an apex predator close encounter on the Adelaide River, onboard the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise (optional extra)
- Visit the impressive century-old Magnetic Termite Mounds located in the Litchfield National Park
- Shhh…. there’s a secret in every tour!”
Jumping Crocodile Tour from Darwin
Tour description taken from website:
“OPERATES: Daily (May-Nov) / Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun (Dec-Apr)
DEPARTS: 07:30am
RETURNS: 11:30am
TOUR DURATION: 4 Hours.
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Travelodge Resort Darwin, 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Hassle-free transfers from Darwin direct, with Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise entry
- Explore the diverse wetlands and waterways of the Adelaide River, a floodplain region identified as an important bird area
- Northern Territory is known for its diverse Australian wildlife, amongst 280 different species of birds and 117 species of reptiles
- Travel aboard the only aboriginally-owned cruise operator, where profits go back into supporting the traditional owners of the surrounding area
- Enjoy live commentary from our wildlife expert, and learn about these magnificent creatures, croc biology, behaviours and local ecosystem
- Shhh… there’s a secret in every tour!”
Kakadu Wilderness Escape + Fogg Dam from Darwin
Tour description taken from website:
“OPERATES: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun (May-Oct) / Tue, Thu, Sun (*Apr)
DEPARTS: 07:30am
RETURNS: 19:30pm
TOUR DURATION: 12 Hours
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Travelodge Resort Darwin, 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Kakadu National Park is one of four Australian sites included on the World Heritage List for exceptional natural and cultural values
- Explore floodplains of Ubirr, home to important Aboriginal rock painting sites thousands of years old
- Visit the infamous Cahills Crossing to safely spot saltwater crocodiles from the viewing platform
- Learn about Kakadu at the Bowali Visitor Centre with time to view and purchase local arts and artefacts
- Stroll the diverse wetlands boardwalk and observation decks at Fogg Dam Conservation Centre, a bird-watchers paradise and wildlife refuge.
- Shhh… there’s a secret in every tour!”
Kakadu Wilderness Escape + Croc Cruise from Darwin
Tour description taken from website:
“OPERATES: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun (May-Oct) / Tue, Thu, Sun (*Apr)
DEPARTS: 07:30am
RETURNS: 19:30pm
TOUR DURATION: 12 Hours
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Travelodge Resort Darwin, 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Kakadu National Park is one of four Australian sites included on the World Heritage List for exceptional natural and cultural values
- Explore floodplains of Ubirr, home to important Aboriginal rock painting sites thousands of years old
- Visit the infamous Cahills Crossing to safely spot saltwater crocodiles from the viewing platform
- Learn about Kakadu at the Bowali Visitor Centre with time to view and purchase local arts and artefacts
- Get your heart racing with a close encounter with an apex predator on the Adelaide River onboard the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise
- Shhh… there’s a secret in every tour!”
3 Hour Gourmet Lunch or Dinner Tour
“Combining Darwin’s finest restaurants, delicious food and striking street art – this three-hour gourmet lunch or dinner tour is a wonderful way to experience the very best of Darwin. Focusing on fresh local ingredients and inspired by a number of cultures including Aboriginal bush food, each guest will enjoy a tasting plate at a number of venues in Darwin.
Throughout the three hours Darwin Gourmet Lunch or Dinner Tour you’ll also get to see some of Darwin’s cultural and historical landmarks, street art and a roster of restaurants. Chefs will present a unique tasting plate at each venue and complimentary soft drink, tea and coffee are included.”
DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS TOUR CHECK AVAILABILITY NOW
3 Hour Lunch or Dinner Gourmet Art Tour
Tour description from website:
Darwin’s best food in a 3.5 hour tour
• visit Darwin’s finest restaurants
• a wide variety of tasting plates
• staff talk to us about the food
• local produce and food culture
• soft drinks, coffee and tea included
• short easy walks between restaurants
• vegetarian and gluten-free options
• see Darwin’s street art come to life with augmented reality
• there’s lots to eat—we’ll fill you up
• all tours are different.
Book NowThis is one of Australia’s top bucket list items.
“Kakadu is rich in both nature and culture, and on the tour you’ll head out from Darwin at 6.30 am for a full day’s worth of adventure. You’ll venture into the heart of Kakadu, taking in highlights such as the spectacular Nourlangie Rock to view ancient Aboriginal rock art, then you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch amongst these Aussie bushland surrounds.
Next up, join a friendly local guide and embark on a Billabong Cruise on the Yellow Water, keeping an eye out for the many varieties of amazing wildlife such as crocodiles, large birds and more. Follow it with a visit to the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn more about the history and traditions of Australia’s original inhabitants before re-boarding your comfortable, air-conditioned bus and returning to Darwin. Tours depart daily at 6:15 am and return around 7:30 pm and includes transfers to your Darwin accommodation.
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST KAKADU TOURS CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Day Tour
Depart by ferry from the Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal to Bathurst Island.
Your day tour includes visits to a local museum, church, morning tea with damper with the Tiwi Island ladies, watch totem pole dancing and a smoking ceremony and learn about bush food and bush medicine
.YOU CAN CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
Katherine Gorge and Edith Falls Day Tour
“Embark on a journey from Darwin to Katherine Gorge for an incredibly scenic and enjoyable day tour. By far one of the most popular Top End destinations, Katherine Gorge is made up of thirteen individual sandstone gorges each carved from billions of years of erosion. With a number of local highlights on the itinerary for the day, you’ll be amazed at the natural beauty that this region possesses. With the help of an expert guide, you’ll receive great commentary of the region as you pass through Nitmiluk National Park and Edith Falls as well as viewing traditional Aboriginal Rock Art.
One of the highlights for the day includes a cruise along Katherine Gorge for spectacular views of the surroundings and the chance to spot some local wildlife. This tour offers a range of features including hotel transfers, an air-conditioned coach and a delicious buffet lunch to enjoy in the park. Tours depart every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday around 6:15 am (or earlier from your accommodation) and aim to return around 8:30 pm.”
Highlights:
- Nitmiluk National Park
- Edith Falls
- Aboriginal Rock Art
- Katherine Gorge Cruise
- Delicious Lunch
- Adelaide River War Memorial
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR THIS POPULAR TOUR HERE
Where to Eat in Darwin
Head to the restaurants at the Darwin Waterfront for excellent dining options.
Address: 19 Kitchener Drive, Building 3, Darwin City
Casual dining specialising in wood grill cooking and local seasonal produce
Address: 7 Kitchener Drive Darwin City
A choice of 3 bars, 46 craft beers, ciders, wines, cocktails, outdoor seating, live music, sporting events and more
Crustaceans Steak and Seafood Restaurant
Address: 45 Stokes Hill Road Darwin
For the best fish, oysters and steak in a relaxed setting with outdoor seating available on the harbourfront terrace.
Address: 19 Kitchener Drive Darwin City
Mouth-watering pizzas, burgers, cocktails, drinks and more
Address: F2/19 Kitchener Drive Darwin City
Tacos and tequila plus more Mexican delights in this award-winning restaurant
Address: 19 Kitchener Drive Darwin City
Fresh chilled or grilled oysters, seafood, platters, Australian wines and beers
FAQ’s on Visiting Darwin
When is the best time to visit Darwin?
You can visit Darwin anytime of the year. The dry season runs from May to October and the wet season from October to April where you can experience daily showers and cyclonic weather especially around January February.
How far is Kakadu National Park from Darwin?
3.5 hours from Darwin is Kakadu National Park.
How far is Litchfield National Park?
Litchfield Park is 2 hours from Darwin.
When is the Mindil Beach Markets open?
Thursday and Sunday Nights from 4 pm to 9 pm from April to October.
Where are the best places to see the Darwin Sunsets?
- East Point Reserve, Fanny Bay
- Bicentennial Park
- Casaurina Parade Nightcliff
When is the best time to visit Darwin’s Waterfalls?
The best time to visit Darwins waterfalls is in the dry season, if you want to be able to swim. Litchfield National Park is home to one of the best waterfalls – Wangi Falls. There are 4 other falls that you can visit as well – Florence, Buley Rockhole, Tolmer and Surprise Creek Falls.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our article on things to do in Darwin. We will regularly add new tours and activities for you to enjoy, so make sure you bookmark our article for future reference.
If you have visited Darwin and have a favourite activity that we have not included here we would love to hear from you.
Join our Staycation Australia Private Facebook Group here for our latest travel inspirations.
Do you require car rental – we use Rentalcars around Australia. Click here for the latest deals and policy details.
Cheap Flight Deals to Darwin
For the latest airfare deals from your home departure point click here
Travel Insurance
We always recommend that you take out travel insurance as soon as you pay for flights, hotels, tours and activities.
Are you on Pinterest? We are at Staycation Australia. Why not follow us and save to your own board for your next travel inspiration.
