In Darwin, visitors are now spoiled with choice when it comes to accommodation. With a weakening resource sector, slowing economy and dropping rents, accommodation availability has increased while prices have become more “realistic”. Air BnB is on the rise as more and more property owners offer holiday rentals. However, there are still big differences in what you can get for your money, and some hotels in Darwin are, admittedly, getting a bit tired. To help you make a choice, here is our list of recommended options.
PALMS CITY RESORT
The Palms City Resort is located at Darwin’s Esplanade in walking distance to the CBD and waterfront. The hotel has recently been refurbished and offers hotel rooms as well as bungalow style accommodation. The reason we like to recommend Palms City Resort, apart from having received great feedback from guests who have stayed there, is that the hotel offers a tropical lifestyle that many other hotels in Darwin don’t. With its low buildings and lush greenery, the Palms is a nice alternative to Darwin’s high rises where you can truly relax in tropical style amongst palm trees. It is quiet, private and represents Darwin’s laid back character.
http://www.palmscityresort.com/
MINDIL BEACH CASINO & RESORT (FORMERLY SKY CITY)
As the name suggest, this modern luxury hotel resort is right on Mindil Beach. With direct access to the beach, Darwin’s casino resort offers a range of accommodation, four restaurants, several bars and plenty of entertainment. Rooms in the newest addition to the resort are some of the most luxurious available in Darwin. If booking this hotel, you can have a great time in Darwin without moving too far- you can go for a walk on the beach, relax at the infinity pool overlooking the ocean, swim in the new lagoon (some rooms have direct access) or treat yourself to a wellness package at the day spa. The resort is in walking distance to the iconic Mindil Beach Sunset Markets and Darwin CBD is about a 20 minute walk away. Taxis are available at any time, or you can jump on a public bus right
https://www.mindilbeachcasinoresort.com.au/
VIBE/ ADINA WATERFRONT
Location, location, location! This hotel right at the Darwin Waterfront is a convenient place to stay for the entire family. Overlooking the wave pool and lagoon, you will truly feel the holiday vibes. The waterfront offers a variety of dining options, shops, cafes and beauty salons right at your door step. It is the perfect place to stay if you or your children fancy and early morning/ late night/ any time really… swim in the wave pool or the lagoon by the ocean. It is only about a 5 minute walk to Smith Street Mall, and you can also walk to Stokes Hill Wharf for casual dining or to visit Darwin’s latest attraction, the Bombing of Darwin/ Royal Flying Doctors experience. Try to book a room on one of the higher floors and fronting the ocean for better views.
https://www.tfehotels.com/brands/vibe-hotels/vibe-hotel-darwin-waterfront
RYDGES DARWIN CENTRAL
The Rydges Darwin Central is one of the most affordable choices in the heart of Darwin’s CBD. It has everything you need as a base to explore Darwin and has recently been taken over by Rydges- complete with a face lift.
www.rydges.com/accommodation/darwin-nt/rydges-darwin-central
Of course there are also the many options available on Air BnB… And once you have found your perfect place to stay, you might be looking for things to do in Darwin. Get some inspiration here.