5 places to watch a Darwin sunset

It’s hard not to fall in love with a place where the whole town stops to watch the sunset. Travellers flock to the Top End every year to witness the spectacular sunsets that Darwin’s known for.

If you’re seeking dreamy skies, look no further. We’ve compiled a list ofthe best places to watch the day fade away.

Mindil Beach

The iconic Mindil Beach sunsets always draw a crowd. On Thursdays and Sundays (April – October), head down to the buzzing Mindil Beach Sunset Market and wander through the craft and food stalls. When the time comes, grab some tasty treats and meander down to the sand to watch the sun melt into the ocean.

If the markets don’t pique your interest, why not visit Mindil Beach Casino and Resort to take in the technicolor sky? The resort has a plethora of ways to take in the sunset, such as sipping cocktails at the beachfront bars, walking on the resort’s lawns or floating away in the infinity pool.

Yacht sailing past at Mindil Beach — Yacht sailing past Mindil Beach

Sunset at Mindil Beach — Mindil Beach is the perfect place to watch the sunset

Darwin Harbour

The Darwin Harbour is filled with wartime history, larger than Sydney harbour, and happens to be a wicked place to watch the sun go down. The sky lights up in flaming hues of orange that contrast the ocean perfectly. Watch from the shore and take in the spectacular colours.

For a unique perspective, take a harbour cruise and enjoy a tropical sunset over sparkling wine and nibbles. Cape Adieu Harbour Cruises and Darwin Harbour Cruises are just a couple of the tours you can set sail on in seek of the perfect sunset.

Nightcliff Foreshore

Do as the locals do and head down to Nightcliff foreshore to watch the sun go down. The foreshore is buzzing with people enjoying the tropics all year round. It’s the perfect place for a sunset picnic or to catch some of the pop-up food trucks.

The Nightcliff foreshore’s shared footpath is riddled with BBQ facilities, playgrounds and workout equipment. There’s something for everyone at this lively hangout and it’s nothing but pure magic once the tangerine glow of the sunset covers the place.

Sunset at Nightcliff Jetty — Stroll along Nightcliff Jetty for beautiful ocean views

Cullen Bay

Cullen Bay is a foodie’s haven and delivers sunsets that are certainly worth the hype. Take your own chairs or picnic rug and set up on Cullen Beach, or watch from one of the neighbouring restaurants. Either way, you’re in for a spectacular symphony of colour courteously of Mother Nature.

Fannie Bay

Fannie Bay is full of laid-back seaside clubs that are perfect for taking in sundown while enjoying the ocean breeze and making the most of the tropical weather.

Some highlights in the area include Darwin Trailer Boat Club, Darwin Sailing Club and Darwin Ski Club. The stunning East Point Reserve has BBQ areas and playgrounds scattered along the coastline, making it the perfect place to take in an extraordinary Darwin sunset.

Couple watching sunset at East Point — East Point Reserve is only a 10-minute drive from Darwin’s CBD

Discover more inspiration on where to go and what to see in Darwin.

Keep exploring

Top End Aboriginal culture experiences

Become fully immersed in the world’s oldest living culture in the Top End. Explore Litchfield National Park with an Aboriginal guide who grew up with the park as her backyard. Admire ancient rock art in Kakadu, camp on the Tiwi Islands or cruise through Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge.

Secluded swimming holes in the Red Centre

It's true the Red Centre is about as far from the coastline as you can get in Australia. But don't let that deter you from packing your swimsuit and sunscreen. Wild swimming holes and outback beaches are the perfect way to cool down in the Red Centre.

How to connect with Aboriginal culture

The Territory's natural attractions, wide-open landscapes and cultural heritage command attention. These are places which hold significant cultural importance for Traditional Owners. With deep cultural history more than 60,000 years in the making, Aboriginal culture is everywhere you look in the Territory.

Drive the Red Centre Way from Alice Springs

Uluru may be the main attraction for many visitors to the Red Centre. But there’s much more to discover in the vibrant desert landscapes of Central Australia. Take a road trip along the Red Centre Way and you'll find plenty of attractions.