| Cost | Free entry to Recreation Lagoon; Wave Lagoon entry fee at kiosk (concessions available, under 3s free) |
|---|---|
| Location | Darwin Waterfront, Darwin, Northern Territory |
| Pet Friendly | See Camps App |
| Campfires | Not applicable (day-use precinct) |
| Facilities | Wave Lagoon, Recreation Lagoon, 20+ eateries, playground, WWII Oil Tunnels, Stokes Hill Wharf, public art, ferris wheel, mini-golf, fishing areas |
| Vehicle Access | See Camps App |
| In Camps App | Find caravan parks and camps near Darwin City in the Camps App |
We loved our time at Darwin Waterfront – the newest precinct on the ocean in Northern Territory’s capital. And believe me, you’ll want to get wet in this Top End climate.
Here’s what we got up to!
Bounce on waves
Kids will love the Wave Lagoon more for some action. There is a fee for entry at the kiosk, you can save with senior concession family prices – plus under 3s are free. There is a shallow area for littlies and tubes are supplied. You can even join an Aqua Fit class!
Bring your camera
There are fun spots you’ll want to photograph in this lovely location…
Back in wartime
WWII Oil Tunnels entry is right there! Darwin was attacked by 188 Japanese aircraft on February 19, 1942 and this “top secret” attraction had an important role.
Walk the Rainbow Steps
Up this colourful staircase, are more Darwin attractions and the CBD – with even more pubs and restaurants to enjoy. It really is a great location.
Sip and Sup
With over 20 eateries, we were spoilt with choice and those waterfront views! I’ll give a shout out to Chow! and their Asian fusion deliciousness. Cocktails were very welcome at the Oyster Bar, too!
‘Lie like a loungeroom lizard’
After lunch, bring your book, and laze back in a deck chair at the Recreation Lagoon. A great spot for people watching, too! The kids will love a swim, and it is free (but note: water temperatures are warm as, bro).
Even the cloudy days were wonderful. There in the wet season, we welcomed the loud, angry storms making an appearance most nights. Over in an instant, they cooled us all down.
Reason for the Season
Read up the signage whilst you are there – and beautiful blooms and tropical trees! The season will be displayed, too. We visited in “knock ‘em down” Mayilema Season. Something we experienced that trip, when soaking in the Litchfield waterfalls!
Stroll along the paths
Soak up those views! There’s a playground for kids, public art, a nail salon, fashion and beautiful images in the art gallery. Look out for live music and yoga, as well as special events.
Stokes Hill Wharf
Walk out for a ferris wheel, mini-golf, harbour cruise and live music on Wednesdays and Sundays during April to September. You can fish, watch trawlers, or those special NT sunsets over Darwin Harbour. The award winning Royal Flying Doctor Service attraction is onsite.
Seafood and eat it
Side Trip: The fish markets aren’t far from here, too! Just 1 km away – they are worth a look. Especially if you want to buy some local fish or seafood to bring back to the caravan park!
If you like this article – read up on Darwin’s FREE waterslides. Our kids loved them!
Find caravan parks and camps near Darwin City in your CAMPS+ App, CAMPSPendium and Caravan Parks guides.
Download the Camps App for iPhone/iPad or Android
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Darwin Waterfront free to visit?
Yes, entry to the Darwin Waterfront precinct and the Recreation Lagoon is free. However, the Wave Lagoon has an entry fee payable at the kiosk, with concessions available for seniors and families, and free entry for children under 3.
What can kids do at Darwin Waterfront?
Kids can enjoy the Wave Lagoon with supplied tubes and shallow areas for littlies, swim in the free Recreation Lagoon, play at the playground, ride the ferris wheel at Stokes Hill Wharf, try mini-golf, and explore the colourful Rainbow Steps.
Are there restaurants at Darwin Waterfront?
Yes, there are over 20 eateries at Darwin Waterfront with waterfront views. Highlights include Chow! for Asian fusion cuisine and the Oyster Bar for cocktails.
What is the WWII Oil Tunnels attraction?
The WWII Oil Tunnels is a ‘top secret’ wartime attraction located at Darwin Waterfront. It relates to the Japanese aircraft attack on Darwin on February 19, 1942, when 188 aircraft bombed the city.
When is the best time to visit Darwin Waterfront?
Darwin Waterfront can be visited year-round. During the wet season, expect warm water temperatures and afternoon storms that cool things down. Live music at Stokes Hill Wharf runs on Wednesdays and Sundays from April to September.
What is at Stokes Hill Wharf?
Stokes Hill Wharf features a ferris wheel, mini-golf, harbour cruises, fishing areas, the award-winning Royal Flying Doctor Service attraction, and live music on Wednesdays and Sundays during April to September. You can also watch trawlers and enjoy NT sunsets over Darwin Harbour.
Where can I stay when visiting Darwin Waterfront?
Check the Camps App for caravan parks and camps near Darwin City with verified facilities and booking information.
Is there parking at Darwin Waterfront?
Check the Camps App for current details about parking and vehicle access at Darwin Waterfront.
