A sightseeing tour of Darwin isn’t complete without a stroll around the Waterfront Precinct. Stroll the seaside promenade and enjoy views over the fishing wharf; take a walk or jog through the parks; or set sail on a cruise around Darwin Harbour. On sunny days, head down to the lagoon—one of the only places to swim in Darwin free from marine stingers and crocodiles—where you can lounge on the sandy beach, swim in the lagoon, or have fun in the wave pool. At dusk, head down to Stokes Hill Wharf for dinner at one of the oceanside restaurants and sample the local seafood.
Darwin Waterfront Precinct is located just south of downtown Darwin, about a 10-minute walk away. A free bus shuttle service operates around the waterfront, linking all of the main sites. There is plenty of paid parking.
From daytime activities to evening dining, Darwin Waterfront Precinct is lively at all hours of the day and night. The lagoon stays open all year-round, but closures sometimes occur during the wet season (October to April). Look out for seasonal events held in the precinct throughout the year, such as the New Year’s Eve fireworks, free fitness and yoga classes over the summer, and the Darwin International Film Festival in September.
Darwin Waterfront Precinct is also an important cultural center of the city and hosts events and festivals throughout the year. Attend a concert or exhibition at the Darwin Convention Centre, admire the street art installations dotted around the parklands, or learn more about Darwin’s history with a visit to the World War II Oil Storage Tunnels. During the summer, head down to the Deck Chair Cinema to watch an alfresco movie as the sun sets.