How to have a Top End wedding in the dry season

Congratulations! You’ve just become engaged. Now it’s time to start planning your dream wedding in the Territory's Top End during the Dry Season.

Without leaving Australia’s shores, have an ultimate destination wedding in the Northern Territory's Top End. If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Top End will impress with its combination of sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters, rugged bush landscapes and unique culture.

Tropical fact: The Top End and Darwin is an easy three to four hour flight from most Australian capital cities.

Top End wedding venues we love

Here are our picks for some of the best destination wedding venues in the Top End. Whether you want a beach, city or outdoor wedding, one of these gorgeous locations will have what you’re looking for. We’ve listed the top vendors in each location to help make your destination wedding unforgettable. 

1. Pee Wee’s at the Point – East Point, Darwin

One of Darwin's many fine dining options is Pee Wee’s at the Point. Enjoy the East Point nature and garden setting with ocean views of Fannie Bay and Darwin city beyond. This award-winning restaurant has hosted many spectacular weddings and has capacity for large group weddings or more intimate events and weddings.

Tropical fact: Pee Wee’s is ranked #1 of 270 restaurants in Darwin on TripAdvisor.

2. Wharf One – Darwin Waterfront

The lively Darwin Waterfront is home to Wharf One, a waterfront restaurant specialising in a menu featuring a delicious wood-fired grill and seasonal local produce. Your wedding party will be treated to an elegant venue with scenic waterfront dining. Wharf One is a great place for a wedding reception with a touch of class.

Tropical fact: The average maximum dry season temperature is 31°C.

3. Mindil Beach Casino Resort – Mindil Beach

For an all-in-one wedding experience, the Mindil Beach Casino Resort is our top pick. Turn your wedding into a holiday with on-site accommodation. Enjoy champagne on your room's poolside deck before stepping straight into the lagoon pool.Mindil Beach Casino Resort has numerous reception venues including lush landscaped gardens for a tropical garden wedding, or the Beachside Pavilion and Grand Ballroom.

Tropical fact: The best time to say ‘I do’ in the Top End is from May to September.

4. Darwin Harbour Cruises – Darwin Harbour

Weddings on the Water is a personalised package offered by Darwin Harbour Cruises. The experience can be tailored to your budget with delicious food and beverage packages. Choose from two vessels suitable for large or small weddings, both with shaded deck areas. Say 'I do' in your wedding at sea while cruising Darwin Harbour accompanied by the spectacular sunsets Darwin is renown for.

Tropical fact: 2,000 bottles of champagne are popped on Darwin Harbour each Dry Season.

5. Cicada Lodge – Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is home to the idyllic Cicada Lodge in Nitmiluk National Park. Imagine your wedding in this stunning location with a menu that combines native Australian foods with matching wines and quality service. Cicada Lodge is an escape from the city that combines comfort and elegance.

Tropical fact: Cicada Lodge is ranked #1 of 7 hotels in Katherine on TripAdvisor.

The Top End is popular with couples who choose to turn their wedding into a holiday celebration with family and friends. Enjoy the romance, fun, festivals and adventure on offer in the Top End. Find out what’s happening in the Top End via the links below:

• Festivals & events
• Art & culture
  
• Family activities
  
• Outdoor activities around Darwin
  
• Nature & wildlife around Darwin
• More to see & do around Darwin
  

Take the stress out of planning your big day with the help of wedding planners and vendors from our comprehensive wedding vendor directory. Read more about weddings in the NT.