Apart from its ecological importance, Charles Darwin National Park is full of history. Shell middens belonging to the Indigenous Larrakia people are found throughout the park, and you’ll also find shelters and bunkers dating back to World War II. Several displays and information areas exist to learn about the region’s role during the war.
Today, it’s popular for picnicking (make like a local and take advantage of the public barbecues), with plenty of hiking trails and tracks for mountain bikes.
Don’t forget the bug repellent and the sunscreen—as a wetland area, mosquitos and other insects are common.
Pets are not permitted on the hiking or biking trails or in the picnic area.
Drinking water is only found in the picnic area, so fill your bottle before setting off on any adventures.
It’s a 15-minute drive from downtown Darwin or a 20-minute bus ride to the park entrance. If you’re taking the bus, catch Number 5 from the Darwin Interchange on Henry Chan Avenue and hop off on Sweet Street. Head north until you reach the Charles Darwin National Park access road—from there, it’s a 30-minute walk to the parking lot and public toilet area.
Darwin is best visited in the dry season from May to October when the humidity drops and the temperature is more pleasant. During Australia’s fall and winter, the chances of rainstorms are lower. Visit the park in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, and opt for a weekday visit to avoid the local crowds that come on the weekend.
The park is a short 3.5 miles from Darwin, so skip the bus and rent a bike from one of the shops in the city. Follow the A15 east until you reach the turn-off point. You’ll find trail maps in the main picnicking area. Be aware that some trails are for mountain bikes, so pick one that is accessible for hybrid bikes.
