17 of the best things to do with in Darwin with kids

Your go-to guide for family-friendly fun in the Top End.

Darwin is an open-air playground where kids can swim, climb, ride and roam free. With oodles of water parks, hands-on wildlife encounters and plenty of space to run, it’s a top-notch place for families. From biking through bush trails to feeding fish by hand, there’s plenty to keep kids busy. Here’s your go-to guide for the best things to do with kids in Darwin.

1. Catch a wave at the lagoon

the wave pool at Darwin’s Waterfront Lagoon

Make a splash at the man-made lagoon. (Image: Tourism NT)

Darwin’s Waterfront Lagoon is where kids can boogie board, swim and splash without worrying about crocodiles or jellyfish. The wave pool delivers rolling swells every 20 minutes, perfect for both thrill-seekers and little paddlers. Parents can lounge on the grass while the kids ride the waves and when everyone’s waterlogged, there’s a bunch of family-friendly cafes and an ice creamery just a short stroll away.

2. Mountain bike at Charles Darwin National Park

mountain biking at Charles Darwin National Park

Tackle the tropical terrain on two wheels. (Image: Tourism NT/Travis Deane)

Swap the city streets and pools for dirt trails and tropical bushland with a mountain biking adventure at Charles Darwin National Park. Hire a bike from Cycle Zone and take on tracks winding through WWII bunkers and lush forests. There are routes for all skill levels, from easy family-friendly loops to more technical trails for the adventurous.

3. Bounce around the Aqua Park

an aerial view of the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon

Create fun family memories with your kids at the Darwin Waterfront. (Image: Tourism NT)

If your kids love Ninja Warrior-style challenges, they’ll go wild for the inflatable Aqua Park at the Darwin Waterfront. This floating obstacle course has slides, climbing walls and trampolines, all set on the water. Life jackets are provided, so even less confident swimmers can get in on the action. It’s the perfect way to burn energy before grabbing a post-bounce bubble tea or ice cream.

4. Feed the fish at Aquascene

a school of fish swimming at Aquascene, Darwin

Get up close to hundreds of wild fish. (Image: Tourism NT/Aquascene)

For over 70 years, Aquascene has been one of Darwin’s favourite attractions, where hundreds of wild fish swim right up to the shore to be fed by hand. The fish – mostly milkfish, mullet, and catfish – appear like clockwork with the tide, ready for a snack. Kids will love wading into the shallow water as fish nibble food straight from their fingers. It’s a sensory overload – splashing water, excited squeals, and the occasional slippery fish brushing against little toes.

5. Take a slide at Leanyer Recreation Park

A free water park? Yes, please. Leanyer Recreation Park has three huge water slides, a massive splash zone and a lagoon-sized pool. The giant tipping bucket is a crowd favourite, soaking anyone in its path every few minutes. There’s also a dry playground, skate park, canteen and BBQ areas, making it an easy outing for families.

6. Climb high at SWELL Palmerston

About 30 minutes from the CBD, Palmerston is home to not one but two free water parks that are well worth the drive. Palmerston Water Park boasts Darwin’s biggest waterslide – a six-lane racer that’s just as much fun for adults as it is for kids (yes, it’s a challenge). And if they’re more into climbing than sliding, SWELL Palmerston delivers the goods with a 50-metre pool and a three-storey high ropes course that’ll keep them busy for hours.

7. Swim with crocs at Crocosaurus Cove

swimming with a crocodile in the cage of death at Crocosaurus Cove

Get up close to a saltwater crocodile at Crocosaurus Cove. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Ever wanted to swim with a saltwater crocodile? Crocosaurus Cove lets you do just that – safely, of course. Older kids (and brave parents) can hop into the Cage of Death for a face-to-face encounter with one of the world’s largest crocs. Younger ones can feed baby crocodiles, hold a reptile, or watch feeding time from the safety of dry land.

8. Visit the Territory Wildlife Park

A short drive from Darwin, the Territory Wildlife Park is a great place to get up close with the Northern Territory’s unique wildlife. Stroll through treetop aviaries, spot nocturnal animals in the nighttime house, and catch wildlife presentations throughout the day. The Flight Deck show is a highlight, where eagles and owls glide just overhead. Getting around is easy with the free shuttle train or, for something more fun, hire a pedal cart.

9. Browse the markets

Admire the sunset as you graze your way along the food stalls. (Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo)

Darwin’s markets are loud, lively, and full of things kids will actually enjoy – from food to music to wide-open spaces. Start with Parap Village Markets on Saturdays, where Darwin’s most talked-about laksa is worth the wait (ask for mild for younger tastebuds). On Thursday and Sunday evenings, Mindil Beach Markets serve up sunset views, street performers, and endless dinner options, while the kids roam free on the sand. Sunday mornings are for breakfast – head to Nightcliff Markets for smoothie bowls and pastries or Rapid Creek for tropical fruit and veg that’ll blow their minds (and maybe yours, too).

10. Fish at Stokes Hill Wharf

Drop a line off Stokes Hill Wharf and you might just reel in a trevally, queenfish, or even a barra if luck’s on your side. It’s a relaxed spot for a fish, with salty sea breezes and plenty of action to watch – from cruise ships pulling in to cheeky seagulls angling for scraps. When hunger hits, head to The Jetty Restaurant nearby, where there’s a crowd-pleasing buffet, water views and – the clincher – a chocolate fountain.

11. Food truck time at Nightcliff Foreshore

an aerial view of the Nightcliff Foreshore, Darwin

Enjoy casual dining at the picturesque Nightcliff Foreshore. (Image: Tourism NT)

Curled ice cream, loaded jacket potatoes, wood-fired pizza and Asian street food – Nightcliff Foreshore is a go-to spot for families who love a casual bite. Grab something delicious and spread out on the grass while the kids climb trees, ride scooters or watch the sun sink into the ocean. Hot tip: check the City of Darwin’s street food schedule before you head out to make sure your top pick is parked and cooking.

12. Dinner and a swim

Grab a seafood dinner at Darwin Ski Club. (Image: Tourism NT/Cait Miers)

Darwin nails the combo of good food and happy kids. At the Darwin Ski Club and the nearby Trailer Boat Club, you can kick back with a cold drink and a decent meal while the kids go wild in the pool. Just down the road, the Sailing Club skips the pool but makes up for it with swings right next to the tables – ideal for little ones who need to stay in sight but not in their seats. Add a killer sunset view at all three, and you’ve got dinner plans sorted.

13. Watch a flick at Deckchair Cinema

an outdoor movie night at Deckchair Cinema, Darwin

Catch a film at the Deckchair Cinema. (Image: Tourism NT/Friederike Franze)

A movie under the stars? Absolutely. Deckchair Cinema is Darwin’s open-air movie spot where families can settle into deck chairs, grab some popcorn and enjoy a film in the balmy night air. Hot food is on offer from 5.45pm when the gates open, so come hungry. Local tip: claim your spot early by popping one of the supplied cushions on your seat – it’s the way to reserve it for the night.

14. Feed the creatures at Crocodylus Park

feeding a croc at Crocodylus Park, Darwin

Crocodylus Park offers the ultimate wildlife experience. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Lions, meerkats, spider monkeys, cassowaries – Crocodylus Park is home to way more than just crocs. Not to be confused with Crocosaurus Cove in the city, this sprawling wildlife park is about 15 minutes from Darwin’s CBD and packs in crocodiles (heaps of them), exotic animals and even a jumping croc cruise. Kids can get up close with creatures big and small – including the chance to meet mobs of meerkats.

15. Explore MAGNT

two kids admiring a fossil display at MAGNT, Darwin

MAGNT boasts an extensivefossil collection of Australia’s unique megafauna. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is where Darwin keeps its most famous croc – Sweetheart, a massive saltie preserved in all his toothy glory. There’s plenty here to keep kids curious, from marine life displays to new hands-on exhibits about Cyclone Tracy and vibrant showcases of Indigenous art and culture. Keen for more than a wander? Check online before you go – there are often kids’ workshops running, and spots can fill fast.

16. Explore Darwin Street Art

Find vibrant street art on every corner. (Image: Tourism NT/Matt Lambley)

Darwin’s streets are splashed with colour, thanks to towering murals that turn laneways and buildings into an open-air gallery. Download the Darwin Street Art Festival (DSAF) app and take the kids on a mural-hunting adventure using the interactive map. Thirteen of the artworks have a high-tech twist – hold your phone up, follow the prompts, and watch the murals come alive with augmented reality.

17. Take an ice cream odyssey

When the heat kicks in, there’s only one solution – an ice cream crawl. In the CBD, Cold Rock lets kids go wild mixing in their favourite sweets. Down at the Waterfront, Trampoline scoops creative flavours like lamington and pistachio. For something a bit extra, head to Nightcliff Jetty (every night except Monday and Tuesday) where Curled ice cream is made right before your eyes on frozen plates. Flavours like Mango Madness, Mint Condition and Nutta Butta are crowd-pleasers.

Darwin’s beaches stretch out in shades of soft turquoise, easy on the eyes and tempting in the heat. In the dry season, locals and visitors alike wade in, but swimming here comes with a few caveats best not ignored.

The risks? Crocs and stingers – because, well, this is the Top End. But on a dry season weekend, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve teleported to Bondi Beach, with 30 or so people splashing about at Nightcliff Beach and plenty more braving the ocean at Casuarina for a proper swim.

Swimming at the beach in Darwin is a personal call. Weigh up the risks, get informed, stick to patrolled areas when surf lifesavers are on duty, wear protective gear if it makes you feel better – and jump in if it feels right.

Here’s the lowdown on where you can swim, where to stay dry and how to enjoy Darwin’s blue waters safely.

Where’s the safest place to swim in Darwin?

people swimming in Nightcliff Beach, Darwin

Nightcliff Beach is one of the patrolled beaches in Darwin that is considered safe for swimming. (Image: Jeremy Simons)

Zero stress, zero surprises? Head to Darwin Waterfront Lagoon. It’s man-made, croc- and jellyfish-free and patrolled all year. There’s even a netted section and grassy banks for lounging. The Wave Pool is nearby, with timed swells for boogie boarding. It’s the safest splash you’ll find.

Top beaches for swimming in Darwin

From June to August, things shift. The water’s clearer, jellyfish numbers drop and locals start dipping their toes – and more – in the ocean.

Nightcliff Beach

The picturesque Nightcliff Beach feels like a hidden gem. (Image: Jeremy Simons)

At high tide, Nightcliff Beach is magic. The water turns turquoise, locals swim and wade, and confident swimmers jump from the rocks (safely). The Darwin Surf Life Saving Club patrols on Sundays during the dry season, and there’s a laid-back vibe that makes it feel like a hidden gem.

Early riser? Join the Wednesday Dippers at 6.30am for a group swim and post-dip coffee at The Foreshore Restaurant & Cafe. Want to float instead of swim? Hire a paddleboard from Fun Supply.

Casuarina Beach

Witness a pretty, pink-hued sunset at Casuarina Beach. (Image: Tourism NT/ James Maddock)

Part of the Casuarina Coastal Reserve, this wide 4.5km beach is home to Darwin Surf Life Saving Club and its little nippers’ training sessions (Sundays, June to September). It’s also where ocean swims happen each August, with lifesavers patrolling on boards and watercraft.

No rock jumping here – just calm waves and wide-open space. After your swim, refuel at De La Plague Cafe – one of the city’s best spots for post-beach brunch.

Mindil Beach

Soak up magnificent sunsets at Mindil Beach. (Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott)

People do swim at Mindil Beach during the dry season, but let’s be honest – you’re really here for the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. Lifeguards patrol from 2pm to 6pm, Thursday to Sunday (and during incoming tides earlier in the week). Grab a laksa, sit on the sand, and soak up that famous sunset – swimming optional.

East Point Beach

East Point Beach is surrounded by dense and thick mangroves. (Image: Tourism NT)

Patrolled by Mindil Beach Surf Life Saving Club on Sundays in the dry season, East Point Beach is part of the East Point Recreation Reserve, a curved 1.5km stretch ending in mangroves and rocky outcrops. Bonus: Lake Alexander is right behind the beach, offering a croc-free alternative if you’re not keen on the ocean.

What about stingrays?

Box jellyfish and Irukandji are no joke. They’re dangerous, sometimes deadly, and hard to spot. Stinger season runs from October to May, but stings have happened year-round. Kids are more at risk, and since 1975, all 14 recorded stinger-related deaths in the NT have been children.

Box jellyfish are clear with a boxy body and long venomous tentacles and their stings can be fatal. Irukandji (a group of smaller, highly venomous species) are tiny, but nasty. Some species are only the size of a thumbnail. If stung pour vinegar on the area (not fresh water) and call 000 or find a lifeguard.

Are there crocs at Darwin beaches?

a wild saltwater crocodile swimming in the Northern Territory

Darwin is home to dangerous saltwater crocodiles. (Image: Caroline Brundle Bugge)

Yes, saltwater crocs live in Darwin’s waters, but there hasn’t been a fatal attack at these beaches in over 120 years. Why? Because lifesavers manage the risks and beaches close immediately if crocs are spotted. But always check the water before you enter when swimming at the beach. Any natural body of water in the Top End may contain large and potentially dangerous crocodiles.

What about tides?

an aerial view of Nightcliff Beach, Darwin

Nightcliff Beach is moderately steep and narrow at high tide. (Image: Tourism NT)

Darwin has some of the biggest tidal shifts in the country, with changes of up to eight metres between low and high tide. At low tide, beaches can turn into vast stretches of exposed mudflats, making swimming tricky (and unappealing). High tide is your best bet – the water is deeper, clearer, and safer, with fewer sharp rocks and critters underfoot.

Top tips for beach swimming in Darwin

Stick to patrolled beaches.
Swim in the dry season (June–August).
Check signs for warnings and the water for crocs before diving in.

Discover the best things to do in Darwin

17 of the best things to do with in Darwin with kids