Darwin is a great place to spend a sneaky weekend away. Its incredible climate creates an instant holiday feeling, and whether you’re looking for adventure, or simply somewhere to relax and rejuvenate, you’ll be able to find both in abundance.
If you’re looking for things to do in Darwin, start outdoors. Darwin is one of the best places in Australia to catch beautiful barramundi, and a day spent on the water is an ideal way to experience the area. Barramundi can live in fresh or salt water, with saltwater barramundi believed to be a tougher fish to catch, and a tastier bite, so make sure any tour you book takes you out to sea.
Angler’s Choice are Darwin locals, and have been running charters out of Dundee Beach for 15 years on their 7.4m custom sport fishing boat. Their expertise will have you learning new techniques, fishing waters other charters can’t get to, and reeling in your prize catch.
Catch your breath in the stunning George Brown Botanic Gardens
Sprawling over 42 hectares, the gardens feature a rainforest gully with waterfall and ponds, with around 450 species of palms planted nearby, a collection of magnificent baobabs, a desert rose garden, and even a community food garden, where locals can grow their own fruit, vegetables, herbs and spices. A number of trails weave throughout the garden, allowing you to experience the natural diversity of the Top End.
Relax at Howard Springs Nature Park
Swim in the rockpools, birdwatch, even hand feed turtles and barramundi (bring your own squid or mullet). Explore the spring-fed creeks, monsoon forest, paperbark swamps and Howard Sand Plains through a number of tracks and walks, and look out for the giant monitors. With a great playground and barbeque and picnic facilities, Howard Springs makes for an easy, relaxing day out.
Take a cruise
If you really want to tick off some touristy boxes, get yourself along to one of the many croc shows. A number of operators, such as Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise and Adelaide River Cruises offer visitors the chance to see these magnificent animals up close, all from the safety of a boat. Expert wildlife guides will show you the wetlands and river systems, point out the abundant birdlife, and hand feed the crocs, demonstrating their incredible physical strength.
Enjoy a bev
Finally, no visit to Darwin is complete without sunset drinks at the Darwin Sailing Club. The club’s Waterfront Bistro is set amongst tropical gardens and overlooks the magnificent Fannie Bay. Enjoy a delicious, casual meal from the bistro, while watching the sun sink into the sea, and experience a true Darwin institution.
The Quality Hotel Darwin Airport is a great place to base yourself. Simple, stylish rooms overlook a central outdoor pool and reserve beyond, creating a relaxed, carefree atmosphere. With free WiFi, outdoor parking, free airport transfers and satellite TV, this great value Darwin accommodation has everything you need to top off a great weekend in the Top End.
