Turn up to the Top End in spring where everything is a little different to the rest of Australia. We’ve kicked off summer a little early in the NT (spoiler alert: we never really said goodbye to endless sunshine). Up here, warm sunshine is a given, the landscape is bursting with colour and the tropical vibe remains in full swing.
Turn up in spring for more affordable holidays when there’s great deals on offer, there’s less crowds and the Top End’s legendary sunsets turn the sky into blazing colours of dusky pink through to blood-red scarlet.
Every. Single. Day.
Check out this 7-day itinerary highlighting all the fun things to see and do around Darwin, Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park over Australia’s spring season (September – November).
Turn up for culture, cuisine & cocktails in Darwin
Turn up for endless sunshine in the Top End. Start your Top End holiday with an alfresco breakfast at one of Darwin City’s popular cafes. Explore the vibrant street life of Darwin and admire the magnificent street art adorning buildings across the city. As part of the annual Darwin Street Art Festival, murals have been painted by renowned local and interstate artists, creating a collage of artworks. Download the app to interact with the art or take a guided tour to learn the stories behind each artwork.
Immerse yourself in local art
The Territory’s art scene is like no other and Darwin is the best place to immerse yourself in the Aboriginal art scene. The art galleries around Darwin showcase Aboriginal art and artists from across the Territory. Wander through Darwin’s CBD to respected galleries like Mbantua Fine Art Gallery and Mason Gallery. Or head to Parap for the Northern Centre for Contemporary Art to discover a wider range of Northern Territory art.
Give yourself plenty of time to wander the exhibits at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT), which offers a fascinating and broad overview of the region’s Aboriginal art and history. The museum and art gallery houses an extensive collection of natural history, art and cultural exhibits. When you’ve had your fill of art, culture and history, enjoy lunch amongst the lush gardens framing Arafura Sea views from Saltwater @ Bundilla café.
Relax poolside in spring sunshine
Soak up the warm spring sunshine and enjoy an afternoon by the lagoon pool at Mindil Beach Casino Resort. Here, Darwin’s only swim-up pool bar serves eclectic cocktails to be enjoyed on the white sand beach dotted with sun lounges and market umbrellas bathed in spring sunshine.
Turn up the adrenalin with an Apex predator
Turn up the adrenalin and get up close and personal with an Apex predator at Crocosaurus Cove in the heart of downtown Darwin, where crocs, literally, rule. Get up close and personal with the largest reptile on the planet, the saltwater crocodile, while also learning about the Territory’s unique fish and reptile species at the aquarium.
Don’t miss the exciting twice-daily crocodile and fish-feeding show. But to really turn up the adrenalin, slink into the Cage of Death for a face-to-face heart-stopping encounter with some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in captivity. Immersed in a clear Perspex cage, you’ll gain a unique perspective of crocodiles while creating envy-inducing photos to share on Instagram.
Tuck into native Australian bush foods
Tuck into a delicious lunch at Aboriginal Bush Traders, a bush food café that uses native Australian products and bush tucker in their menu. The café is a great place to enjoy a variety of cakes, teas, dampers, jams, sandwiches and salads. Take time to peruse their adjacent gallery and shop which has a selection of Aboriginal art and craft, unique gifts and home wares. Aboriginal Bush Traders are a not-for-profit organisation which provides avenues for Aboriginal people wanting to engage in economic activities in a sustainable way.
Explore the Darwin Waterfront & Stokes Hill Wharf
Pack your swimsuit and head to Darwin Waterfront where a Wave Pool and free Recreation Lagoons are surrounded by lush parklands. Paddle, swim or play in these manmade lagoons where waves are generated in the Wave Pool and the lagoon is a tranquil saltwater swimming spot. Both areas are safe for swimming, are patrolled by lifeguards and are protected from stingers.
Both pools are surrounded by a vast selection of cafes and some of Darwin’s best restaurants for a delicious lunch at the Darwin Waterfront.
If you’re seeking something a little more adrenaline-fuelled, get out on Darwin Harbour with a 00seven Jet Ski Adventure, which departs from nearby Stokes Hill Wharf.
Another day, another sunset
Darwin’s sunsets are legendary and the best way to see the sun sink below the horizon is on one of the many sunset cruise options such as Charles Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise. Enjoy the tropical vibe on the harbour as the sky morphs into shades of scarlet as you sip champagne and linger over a delicious Territory-inspired dinner.
If dining at sea is not your thing, book a table at Pee Wee’s at the Point where you’ll have front row seats to view the setting sun over Darwin Harbour as well as twinkling city lights.
Turn up for fewer crowds at World Heritage-listed Kakadu NP
Turn up for nature and the world’s oldest living culture at Kakadu National Park. Spring season also means less crowds so you’ll likely have iconic sites all to yourself. Leave the city behind and drive south along the Stuart Highway to reach Kakadu National Park less than two hours later. Don’t forget to purchase your Kakadu park pass online, which includes entry to the park along with ranger-guided walks and talks.
Visit Bowali Visitor Centre to plan your Kakadu activities and check if there are any road closures or conditions you should be aware of as you drive through the park. Stop for refreshments at the café then wander through the interpretive displays and gallery for a deeper understanding of Kakadu’s features.
Check into Cooinda Lodge, where accommodation ranges from campsites to luxurious villas, and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants and cafes. Later, make your way to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) for a walk along the shady path where an ancient rock art gallery tells stories dating back tens of thousands of years.
Finish your day in Kakadu with a memorable sunset view at Nawurlandja lookout overlooking Anbangbang Billabong and the Arnhem Land escarpment.
Turn up for tropical waterfalls & wildlife
Turn up for wildlife at sunrise on a Yellow Water cruise, where it’s definitely worth the early start to take the first cruise of the day when wildlife and birds are most active.
Alternatively take a scenic flight over Kakadu, departing from Cooinda Lodge or Jabiru, where you’ll gain insight into the mammoth size of Australia’s second largest national park.
Leave Kakadu behind and drive north along the Stuart Highway to Litchfield National Park where accommodation ranges from campsites to boutique retreats. Pack your swimmers and drive to some of Litchfield’s famed waterfalls and swimming holes such as Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole.
Turn up for wild swimming & rainforest walks
Turn up for wild swimming in waterholes and thermal pools. Litchfield National Park is a nature lovers paradise and there’s plenty to see and do. Walk some of the trails, many of which lead to waterfalls and swimming holes, view the massive termite mounds which stand up to 6m tall or chill out in a shady campsite which can all be found in the Litchfield Destination Guide.
Take a tour to Litchfield from Darwin with NT Indigenous Tours where guides with connections to country offer detailed insight to the region, and lunch is fresh-cooked over an open-flame BBQ.
As you drive back to Darwin, stop for another relaxing swim in the thermal pools at Berry Springs Nature Park, where crystal clear water is fed from an underground hot spring.
Go wild at Territory Wildlife Park
Later, stop at Territory Wildlife Park where you can view the famed animals and plants of the Top End. Walk the grounds or take the free shuttle train around the 4km-long loop to cover the whole park. See the renowned ‘birds of prey’ show or hand feed the whip rays in the Oolloo Sandbar. Wander through treetop aviaries, around a natural lagoon and through the aquarium to see animals of the Territory, including a saltwater crocodile.
Turn up for carpets of scarlet as flame trees bloom in spring
If you’re visiting in late November through to April, spring is the best time to visit East Point Reserve to see Poinciana trees (aka flame trees) in full bloom with their dazzling display of scarlet blossoms. Even if the flame trees are not blooming, East Point is one of Darwin’s nature reserves and it rich in biodiversity. It’s a great place to spot wallabies or birdlife, walk on the beach or along the walking trails or paddle and swim in saltwater Lake Alexander.
Sip a sunset beer overlooking Fannie Bay
The Darwin Ski Club or Darwin Sailing Club are both ideally positioned to view Darwin’s epic sunsets in a casual, relaxed setting. Order a meal from the bistro, a drink from the bar and enjoy front row seats to the nightly spectacle of tropical sunsets over Fannie Bay.
Turn up for fishing, history & waterfront picnics
Turn up for action as you hook the famous barramundi. Local fishing enthusiasts say that nothing compares to hooking a wild barramundi in the Top End. Book a Top End fishing charter for your chance to hook a barra or take a heli fish tour to get to remote locations where the barra are sure to be biting.
The annual Million Dollar Fish competition is hotly contested each year, giving anglers a chance to win $1 million (the 2024 winner was a teenager fishing in the Katherine River).
If you’re not lucky enough to catch your own feed, wild-caught barramundi appears on menus across the Top End.
Historical harbour views
Head towards the Esplanade where you’ll find Bicentennial Park perched on the cliffs of Darwin Harbour. Visit the Cenotaph, Darwin’s first war memorial commemorating Australians who lost their lives in WWI, and the Aboriginal men and women whose bush skills assisted the Army during WWII. Nearby is Parliament House, the Smith Street Mall and Mitchell Street where restaurants, cafes and bars are in abundance.
Picnic like a local
Around sunset head to Nightcliff Foreshore to enjoy a picnic on the grass overlooking the Arafura Sea. There’s free BBQs along with a diverse selection of pop-up food vans which line the foreshore park all the way from Nightcliff Jetty to Rapid Creek. As the sun sets there’s a lively atmosphere as families and groups gather to enjoy balmy tropical evenings.
Turn up in Darwin for laksa - a spicy noodle soup
Turn up for Darwin’s famed laksa, the spicy noodle dish popular in Asian cuisine. Darwin International Laksa Festival runs through the entire month of October, making spring the perfect time to indulge in this popular dish. But in truth, you can find exceptional laksa year round at the city’s markets, restaurants and popup food trucks.
On Saturday mornings make a beeline for Parap Markets where Darwin’s multicultural vibe is on full display with stalls selling fashion, art, crafts and much more. You’ll be spoilt for choice with food options, including Mary’s laksa food truck, which is world famous. Nearby, Laneway Coffee is favoured by Darwin locals for breakfast, lunch or some of the city’s best coffee.
Take in the beauty of the botanic gardens
Not far from Parap Village is George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardensor better yet hop on a Segway tour to experience the incredible flora of Northern Australia from a new perspective. Wander through monsoon forests, coastal dunes, mangroves and open woodlands before relaxing with lunch at Eva’s Botanic Gardens Café.
Slake your thirst in style
Finish your Top End explorations at one of Darwin’s pubs, bars and restaurants which take full advantage of the balmy spring climate. Try The Trader Bar where an old house has been converted into a garden sanctuary café by day, funky cocktail bar by night. Or Stone House where a 200-plus-bottle wine list lures wine connoisseurs, Hanky Panky for funky cocktails or Smoke and Oak where whiskey is an experience rather than a mere beverage.
Day 1
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Food & Drink in Darwin
Food & drinkExplore Darwin's vibrant culinary scene, featuring diverse restaurants, cozy cafes, lively bars, and unique breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Enjoy local flavours, craft drinks, and stunning views.
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Art galleries in Darwin
From modern Aboriginal art, sculptures, experimental and beyond, Darwin has many galleries which will expand your perspective of Aboriginal art.
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Saltwater @ Bundilla
RestaurantSaltwater @ Bundilla is an iconic Northern Territory food destination showcasing the best of the Territory’s produce.
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Mindil Beach Casino Resort
See & doMindil Beach Casino Resort is the ultimate destination for discerning guests seeking a true premium experience in Australia’s extraordinary Northern Territory.
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DarwinView 132 options
Day 2
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Crocosaurus Cove
See & doLocated in the heart of Darwin City, Crocosaurus Cove is home to the world’s largest display of Australian reptiles, including the iconic saltwater crocodile.
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Aboriginal Bush Traders
See & doAboriginal Bush Traders, connecting you with unique, authentic and ethical cultural products and experiences; supporting local indigenous artists, businesses and micro-enterprises.
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Darwin Waterfront Wave Lagoon
See & doCatch a wave at Darwin's coolest Waterfront attraction, the Wave Lagoon.
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Darwin Waterfront Recreation Lagoon
See & doDive into the saltwater Recreation Lagoon and embrace the tropical lifestyle of the Top End.
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Food & Drink in Darwin
Food & drinkExplore Darwin's vibrant culinary scene, featuring diverse restaurants, cozy cafes, lively bars, and unique breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Enjoy local flavours, craft drinks, and stunning views.
Drive:
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Charles Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise
Guided toursOn this relaxing two and a half hour cruise, you will enjoy a delicious Territory-inspired banquet style dinner to share with friends and family.
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Pee Wee’s at the Point
RestaurantNestled amongst tropical palms and with the quiet natural ambience of the surrounds and multitude of wildlife that frequents the area, Pee Wee’s at the Point is an unforgettable Territory harbourside dining experience.
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DarwinView 132 options
Day 3
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Bowali Visitor Centre
See & doBefore you start exploring Kakadu National Park, get familiar by exploring the Bowali Visitor Centre.
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Nawurlandja lookout walk
See & doNawurlandja Lookout offers world-class views across Anbangbang Billabong to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) and the Arnhem Land escarpment.
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Cooinda Lodge KakaduView details
Day 4
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Yellow Water Cruises
TourYellow Water Billabong, Kakadu's most famous wetland, is located at the end of Jim Jim Creek, a tributary of the South Alligator River.
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Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
See & doExperience the natural beauty of Litchfield's famed waterfalls and swimming holes. With crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and refreshing swimming spots, these sites offer the perfect escape into nature.
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Litchfield National Park
Day 5
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Berry Springs Nature Park
See & doBerry Springs Nature Park is a picturesque area 47 kilometres south of Darwin that is a popular day trip destination for picnics, incorporating shady areas, manicured lawns, picnic tables and free gas barbecues.
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Territory Wildlife Park
See & doThe Territory Wildlife Park is your ultimate Darwin wildlife experience!
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Skiing and sailing clubs
Food & drinkThe Darwin Ski Club or Darwin Sailing Club are both the perfect place to settle back into Darwin. Grab an ice-cold beverage, order some snacks or something heartier from the bistro, and watch the sun set over Fannie Bay. The moody skies of the Tropical Summer season may even put on a show for you.
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DarwinView 132 options
Day 6
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Fishing around Darwin
TourFrom sparkling Darwin Harbour and the Mary River wetlands to the Tiwi Islands and the Dundee Coast, the Darwin region is an angler’s paradise.
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Bicentennial Park
See & doPerched on the cliffs of Darwin Harbour along The Esplanade, Bicentennial Park is a good place to catch a sea breeze or spend an afternoon following the WWII walking trail, picnicking or relaxing in the open grasslands.
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Northern Territory Parliament House
See & doParliament House is located in State Square at the end of Mitchell Street, adjacent to the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory and Government House.
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DarwinView 132 options
Day 7
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Parap Markets
See & doThe Parap Markets, located close to the city, in Parap, will tantalise your senses with a mixture of Asian cuisine and the aroma of freshly ground coffee.
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George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
See & doTake a walk through the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens to see a magnificent display of plants from northern Australia and tropical areas around the world.
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Food & Drink in Darwin
Food & drinkExplore Darwin's vibrant culinary scene, featuring diverse restaurants, cozy cafes, lively bars, and unique breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Enjoy local flavours, craft drinks, and stunning views.
Book this trip
Book it yourself
-
Food & Drink in Darwin
Explore Darwin's vibrant culinary scene, featuring diverse restaurants, cozy cafes, lively bars, and unique breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Enjoy local flavours, craft drinks, and stunning views.
-
Art galleries in Darwin
From modern Aboriginal art, sculptures, experimental and beyond, Darwin has many galleries which will expand your perspective of Aboriginal art.
Mindil Beach Casino Resort
Day 1
2 nights’ stay in Darwin
Check-in: Day 1
Check-out: Day 3Crocosaurus Cove
Day 2
Darwin Waterfront Wave Lagoon
Day 2
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Food & Drink in Darwin
Explore Darwin's vibrant culinary scene, featuring diverse restaurants, cozy cafes, lively bars, and unique breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Enjoy local flavours, craft drinks, and stunning views.
Charles Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise
Day 2
Pee Wee’s at the Point
Day 2
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Kakadu Parks Pass
Required for entry to Kakadu National Park. Read about passes & permits
1 nights’ stay at Cooinda Lodge Kakadu
Check-in: Day 3
Check-out: Day 4Yellow Water Cruises
Day 4
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Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
Experience the natural beauty of Litchfield's famed waterfalls and swimming holes. With crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and refreshing swimming spots, these sites offer the perfect escape into nature.
1 nights’ stay in Litchfield National Park
Check-in: Day 4
Check-out: Day 5-
Skiing and sailing clubs
The Darwin Ski Club or Darwin Sailing Club are both the perfect place to settle back into Darwin. Grab an ice-cold beverage, order some snacks or something heartier from the bistro, and watch the sun set over Fannie Bay. The moody skies of the Tropical Summer season may even put on a show for you.
2 nights’ stay in Darwin
Check-in: Day 5
Check-out: Day 7-
Fishing around Darwin
From sparkling Darwin Harbour and the Mary River wetlands to the Tiwi Islands and the Dundee Coast, the Darwin region is an angler’s paradise.
Northern Territory Parliament House
Day 6
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Food & Drink in Darwin
Explore Darwin's vibrant culinary scene, featuring diverse restaurants, cozy cafes, lively bars, and unique breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Enjoy local flavours, craft drinks, and stunning views.
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