5 ways to enjoy Darwin’s waterfront
Darwin’s glistening waterfront has something for everyone.
By Lana Bogunovich
Located in the heart of the city, the Darwin Waterfront precinct brings together some of the best food, culture, attractions and nature Darwin has to offer. Throw in an exciting year-round program of festivals and events, and you’ll find there’s never a dull moment when you’re on the waterfront.
Catch a wave in the lagoon
Wave lagoon at Darwin Waterfront, Darwin, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Summersite
Popular with both kids and adults, the sparkling blue Wave Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Darwin’s waterfront precinct. Every twenty minutes, the lagoon rolls out a range of different wave patterns, so you can swim a leisurely lap during a gentle swell or boogie board on waves measuring up to 1.2 metres (4 feet) high. There’s also a shallow water play area for younger children to splash and play. The pool is open every day and the best part is it’s completely safe, with not a crocodile or stinger in sight!
Marvel at art in tropical parklands
Reading the Palm Trees sculpture, Darwin, Northern Territory © Darwin Waterfront Corporation, Dadang Christanto
With beautifully landscaped gardens, shady picnic areas and lush parklands, Darwin Waterfront Precinct has no shortage of places for you to connect with nature. But in addition to nature, it’s also a place to connect with art. Sculptures and street art are dotted around the edge of the harbour, and are free to explore. Be sure to visit the Reading the Palm Trees sculpture located in Palm Grove and the bright and quirky The Great Wave of Melon mural on Kitchener Drive.
Wine and dine with water views
Wharf One Food and Drink, Darwin, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught
When it comes to eating and drinking, you’ll be spoilt for choice with plenty of restaurants, bars and cafés just a stone’s throw from the water. Savour fresh oysters at Oyster Bar Darwin, feel the heat at Hot Tamale Mexican restaurant, dive into Asian fusion at Chow and tuck into tapas at the lagoon-side Wharf One Food & Wine.
Jet ski along the coast
00Seven Jet Ski Adventures, Darwin, Northern Territory © 00Seven Jet Ski Adventures
Who says you can’t enjoy the waterfront from on the water? Jump on a jet ski and experience Darwin’s glistening coastline in the most thrilling way. 00Seven Jet Ski Adventures has six different guided jet ski tours to choose from, all of which run daily from sunrise to sundown. Discover some of Darwin’s most beautiful coastal locations, encounter marine life such as turtles and dolphins, witness famous World War II shipwrecks, explore mangrove forests and make like James Bond as you embark on secret missions.
Conquer a floating obstacle course
Aqua Park, Darwin, Northern Territory © Aqua Park Pty Ltd
For a splashing good time the whole family will love, hit Aqua Park, located on the Recreation Lagoon. Bounce, flip and slide your way through this giant inflatable obstacle course on the water, suited to kids aged six and older. The obstacles are fun and challenging, offering plenty of thrills and memories that last a lifetime.
