Darwin and Surrounds - A waterfront city

Darwin is set upon one of Australia's prettiest harbours, opening out onto the brilliant, jewel-like waters of the Arafura Sea. This vibrant, tropical city has a free-spirited, open-air lifestyle blessed with a range of waterfront delights.

Beaches, bays and waterholes are there aplenty to explore and enjoy. The beaches are popular places to cool off on a hot day - not surprising as Darwin has an average daily temperature in the low 30s (Celsius).

In the dry season, May to October, visit Casuarina, Fannie Bay, Mindil and Vestys Beaches, all close to the city. However from late October to early May, venomous box jellyfish make beaches and open waterways places to avoid. Luckily Darwin has plenty of popular freshwater swimming spots nearby, to take advantage of these times, such as Howard Springs, Berry Springs and Manton Dam.

The harbour itself offers a host of activities; there is nothing like a sunset cruise, and keen divers will want to explore the many sunken wrecks - there thanks to Darwin's involvement in World War II!
The wharf precincts are perfect for those who like to dine out with a water view. The Darwin Wharf precinct and Cullen Bay are becoming a hot spots for those who want fine dining in a relaxed environment.

Articles

A cultural melting pot

Darwin is closer to Asia than Sydney, so it has the vigour and diversity you would expect of a city that is home to 50 ethnic groups. Along with Aboriginal culture, these influences help mould a unique restaurant, market and cultural scene. more

A re-incarnated city

Darwin has little in the way of historic architecture. Cyclone Tracy flattened the city in 1974, giving it a chance to be rebuilt as a modern tropical capital. Its low-rise buildings and wide, tree-lined streets, parks and waterfront developments embrace an outdoor lifestyle.

History happened here!

The region has a dramatic history, with a strong Aboriginal cultural heritage, a 19th century gold rush on its doorstep and a series of air-raids during World War II. Darwin survived 64 Japanese bombing raids, only to be devastated by a tropical cyclone in 1974.

Savour the delicacies

Of course you'll taste great seafood here at Australia's Top End, but you can also savour dishes melded from Asian and European influences, or try crocodile, buffalo, camel or emu. The heat means a cold beer is never far off, or a good wine at a fine restaurant. more