13 of the best Darwin hotels for your next Top End stay

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Heading to Darwin and not sure where to stay? Whether you want to be in the heart of downtown, by the waterfront, or in one of the city’s coolest suburbs, we’ve lined up the best Darwin hotels for every budget.

Darwin hotels are plentiful, so figuring out which is right for your visit can be overwhelming. Maybe you want to be right in the thick of the city’s nightlife or would prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle in favour of the cafe culture and quirks of its coolest suburbs. Perhaps you want the best views of Darwin’s waterfront or just a place to rest your head at the best Darwin airport accommodation before catching your flight home.

Whatever you need, here are 13  of the best Darwin hotels to book for your next stay.

1. Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel

friends gather by the pool at Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel
Swim a few laps in the outdoor pool. (Image: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott)

A visit to the Waterfront Precinct is definitely one of the top things to do in Darwin, so why not stay within a stone’s throw? Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel is minutes from the area’s top restaurants, bars, and kid-friendly lagoon (one of the few places to swim in Darwin!). With rooms offering one or two-bedroom layouts, and most with kitchenettes, it’s also a great choice for families looking for a bit of space from their accommodation – and the outdoor pool will be a hit with the little ones! Relax on your private balcony with city or harbour views, and enjoy a daily continental breakfast that’s complementary with your booking.

Address: 31-33 Woods St, Darwin

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2. Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites

a balcony with a view at Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites
Take in harbour views from your balcony.

Visiting with a large group? The Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites are definitely a city hotel option worth considering. Situated within the Waterfront Precinct, you’ll find options like three-bedroom penthouse suites that can accommodate up to seven people. Your room will feel like a home away from home with a fully equipped kitchen, laundry and living space, plus an outdoor entertaining area complete with BBQ. Eat out at some of Darwin’s best restaurants, or stay in and enjoy those harbour views.

Address: 19 Kitchener Dr, Darwin

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3. Ramada Suites By Wyndham Zen Quarter

a lounge with a harbour view at Ramada Suites By Wyndham Zen Quarter, Darwin
The self-contained apartments come with harbour views.

The Ramada Suites By Wyndham Zen Quarter are fully self-contained apartments perfectly positioned near The Mall, so they’re great for shopaholics! You’ll also be walking distance from Darwin’s nightlife and some of its best restaurants and cafes. One excellent perk is the Zen Quarter Lounge, where you can enjoy Darwin’s famous sunsets from the 16th floor accompanied by complimentary snacks. You’ll find yourself a regular at the infinity pool, too, with its views over Darwin Harbour and sun-soaked lounges.

Address: 6 Carey St, Darwin

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4. Courtyard By Marriott Darwin

a pool with sun loungers at Courtyard By Marriott Darwin
Spend laid-back afternoons lounging by the pool.

Situated on Smith Street just behind the nightlife of Mitchell Street, Courtyard By Marriott will have you within walking distance to plenty of Darwin’s best things to do, like Crocosaurus Cove and The Esplanade’s ocean views. Cool off in the on-site pool, squeeze in a workout at the fitness centre or simply relax after a long day of sightseeing in your comfortable, modern hotel room.

Address: 81 Smith St, Darwin

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5. Coconut Grove Holiday Apartments

On a budget? Coconut Grove Holiday Apartments is one of the most affordable Darwin city hotels and places you within walking distance of one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods, Nightcliff. Surrounded by tropical palms, the hotel itself is a little retro, but with spacious rooms, comfortable beds and a great price point, there’s plenty to love. Bringing your dog along? The hotel is pet-friendly for an extra fee.

Address: 146 Dick Ward Drive, Coconut Grove

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6. Hilton Darwin

food and drinks by the pool at Hilton Darwin
Dine al fresco by the pool at Hilton Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT/ Christopher Nayna)

Hilton Darwin is one of several Darwin city hotels perched a block back from the famous Bicentennial Park, a must-visit when in town. With modern, sleek decor and a Mitchell Street position that puts you close to Darwin’s best attractions while remaining on the quieter side of town, it’s on the more luxury end of Darwin accommodation. One of the city’s best restaurants, Ella by Minoli, is right next door, too.

Address: 32 Mitchell Street, Darwin

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7. Hilton Garden Inn Darwin

an aerial view of the pool at Hilton Garden Inn Darwin
Hit the on-site pool for a lush swim.

If you’re in town for one of the many stellar performances held at the Darwin Entertainment Centre, the Hilton Garden Inn will save you a walk – it’s right next door! Positioned on The Esplanade, you’ll also be able to enjoy the ocean views of Bicentennial Park each morning or hit the on-site pool under shady palms for a respite after exploring Darwin.

Address: 122 The Esplanade, Darwin

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8. Argus Hotel Darwin

one of the rooms at Argus Hotel Darwin
The spacious Premier Queen suites feature separate bedrooms, living areas, and kitchenettes.

On the budget hotel side in Darwin, the Argus Hotel is contemporary and conveniently situated on the edge of the city. It has rooms that can be connected for families travelling together. The outdoor plunge pool and spa are not to be missed, and if you’ve come with a car, parking is an affordable $9 per night.

Address: 13 Shepherd St, Darwin

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9. Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

the interior of Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront combines comfort and style.

If there is a hotel chain that consistently provides affordable accommodation with style, it’s Vibe Hotels. Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront is no exception. Positioned right on the Waterfront Precinct, it is an excellent jumping-off point for travelling around the city and exploring the best things to do in Darwin.

Steps from your accommodation is the ever-popular public Wave Pool, plus plenty of restaurants for the romantically inclined and family-friendly. Rooms are spacious and have a fresh, modern design with crisp hotel bedding. The downstairs Curve Cafe and Bar —decorated with colourful Aboriginal art and traditional fishing nets—is an ideal spot to relax and re-energise.

Address: 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin

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10. Novotel Darwin Airport

a spacious pool at Novotel Darwin Airport
Novotel Darwin Airport features an expansive tropical lagoon-style pool.

In need of airport accommodation in Darwin? The Novotel Darwin Airport is within walking distance from Darwin International Airport and also provides a 24-hour shuttle service for those red-eye flights. Take the short drive to Darwin City and explore, or just pull up a sun lounge by the luxurious lap pool and order a cocktail or two.

Address: 2 Henry Wrigley Drive, Eaton

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11. Mantra Pandanas Darwin

The Mantra Pandanas is known for its helpful, friendly service and spacious rooms. It is the tallest hotel in Darwin City, and rooms offer kitchenettes, laundries, and private balconies – some with sunset views! Choose from studios or one/two-bedroom apartments for larger groups or those wanting a little more space, and definitely take advantage of the hotel’s infinity pool and spa.

Address: 43 Knuckey St, Darwin

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12. Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront

a suite with a view of Darwin Waterfront at Adina Apartment Hotel
Stay in a luxury suite with a view of the Darwin Waterfront.

One of the most popular Darwin hotels, Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront has everything you need to enjoy a comfortable, home-away-from-home stay in the Top End. Enjoy Darwin’s famous Waterfront Precinct at your doorstep, or stay in with all the conveniences of home, like a full kitchen, in-room laundry and separate living space. The outdoor swimming pool and fully equipped fitness centre will please those staying for longer periods, too. Check out our review of the Adina Apartment Darwin Waterfront Hotel.

Address: 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin

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13. H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel

One of the best budget-friendly Darwin hotels is the H on Mitchell Hotel, which is within walking distance from the city centre. Choose between studio rooms or one/two-bedroom balcony apartments, then explore everything Darwin City has to offer – it’s all within walking distance! Back at the hotel, enjoy the outdoor pool, on-site gym and spacious BBQ area.

Address: 105 Mitchell St, Darwin

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Planning to visit Darwin soon? Discover the best tours in and around Darwin.

Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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8 Red Centre locations to explore after seeing the new movie, Kangaroo

Spend a few days visiting the real-life Central Australian locations that inspired the new film everyone is talking about, and discover why Alice Springs is such an important part of Australian culture.

In the credits of the new Australian film Kangaroo , the first name under ‘cast’ should read ‘The Northern Territory ’. Not only is Alice Springs (and the surrounding landscape) integral to the movie itself, but the spiritual heart of Australia and its local Indigenous owners also inform the look and feel of every frame, explains Producer Trisha Morton-Thomas of Brindle Films, who also plays Charlie’s grandmother Gwennie.

“By setting Kangaroo in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the film embraces how visible Aboriginal people are here, and the living Aboriginal culture that is woven through this community,” she explains.

still from kangarro film
See Kangaroo, then visit the real-life filming locations.

And while shooting in such a sacred part of the Northern Territory required extra planning, it was something the cast and crew were highly invested in.

“There are incredibly significant sacred sites and places of deep cultural stories in the area, that at times are very gender-specific, which we’ve kept out of the production,” she explains. “Even if overhead drone footage captures a sacred site that isn’t meant to be seen by other people outside of that clan, we’ve made sure to omit it from the film.”

If Kangaroo piqued your interest in a Central Australian holiday, we don’t blame you. Read on to discover eight places featured in the movie that you can visit in real life – and get planning. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat.

1. Alice Springs/ Mparntwe

artist at Many Hands Art Centre
Visit the galleries of Alice Springs, like Many Hands Art Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr/ Many Hands Art Centre)

The red and dusty streets of the film’s fictional town of Silvergum were filmed on the outskirts of Alice Springs. And, while the art gallery featured in the film is fictional, Alice Springs is a hub of creativity. See the work of local artists at the Araluen Art Centre , Yubu Napa Art Gallery , Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre and the famous Tjanpi Desert Weavers .

2. The Kangaroo Sanctuary & Kangaroo Rescue Centre

The Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs, the inspiration for the Kangaroo move
Visit the movie’s inspiration at Kangaroo Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/ Kangaroo Sanctuary)

Kangaroo was inspired by the journey of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, who founded the now world-renowned Kangaroo Sanctuary based in Alice Springs. For lead actor, Aussie Ryan Corr, the animals were central to the movie, alongside the landscapes.

“The animals in this story were a real calling point for me,” he explains. “What this story tries to tell us about the connection between humans and animals is beautiful.”

To gain a real insight into the fauna and flora of the Red Centre, you can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary on a sunset tour, where you might even get the chance to hold a baby kangaroo.

3. Ormiston Gorge

woman walking along the edge of Ormiston Gorge near alice springs
Take a dip in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/ @domandjesso)

The film captures the raw beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known in the Arrernte language as Tjoritja. This national park is rich in Indigenous culture and stark geological wonders.

Only a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs, Tjoritja offers visitors the chance to camp, hike and swim among ancient landscapes (most attractions are less than a three-hour drive away).

Ormiston Gorge , a cooling oasis in among the red desert sands, is one of the most popular destinations, no doubt because of the permanent swimming hole and towering red cliffs. From here, visitors can also embark on the beautiful Ormiston Pound Walk and the shorter – more accessible – Ghost Gum Walk. Bring your bathers – it’s safe for swimming.

4. Standley Chasm

woman walking through Standley Chasm near alice springs
Wander through Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT)

The 1.2-kilometre walk to nearby Standley Chasm will be a highlight for any visitor as the imposing 40 metre-high chasm walls project strength and ancient wisdom.

Visit at midday to experience the path illumined by the midday sun. Not only will you fill your camera roll with vibrant red images of the gorge and its intoxicating shadows, but you can also camp nearby in a powered or unpowered site so you can watch the brilliance of the desert stars fill the night sky after dusk.

5. Simpsons Gap

three people walking on path through simpsons gap near alice springs
Walk the trails of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr)

Closer to Alice Springs, the photogenic Simpsons Gap is the perfect place to spot the endangered Black-footed Rock wallaby near the permanent watering hole. While swimming isn’t permitted, soaking up the sun and views certainly is.

Explore the area’s numerous walking trails, appreciate the soaring cliffs on either side of the ‘gap’ and pick out the shooting locations of Kangaroo in the area.

6. Ellery Creek Big Hole

aerial of Ellery Creek Big Hole near alice springs
Dive into Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

When it comes to classic Northern Territory landscapes, you can’t go past Ellery Creek Big Hole/ Udepata : tall gum trees sidling up to a refreshing watering hole (fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by rugged red cliffs.

Swim in the cooling waters, hike the cliff tops, watch for birds and even stargaze as you camp here overnight. It’s locations like this that attracted the film’s director Kate Woods to the project.

“It humbles you to be in this environment: it’s so beautiful, so old and so vast,” she explains. “I was thrilled to get a chance to … shoot such a beautiful story in the incredible landscape of the Northern Territory.”

7. Larapinta Drive

aerial of Larapinta Drive into alice springs
Drive along Larapinta Drive. (Image: Tourism NT)

There is no better way to get a feel for how the characters arrived at the fictional Central Australian town of Silvergum than to travel along the iconic state road, Larapinta Drive.

Connecting Alice Springs to the mighty King’s Canyon in the west, via the historic community of Hermannsburg, this road takes in the West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Desert Park and artist Albert Namatjira’s house, among other attractions. Take your time, bring a camera and prepare for numerous stops along the way.

8. Todd River

competitors in Henley on Todd Regatta, alice springs
Join in the fun of the quirky Henley on Todd Regatta. (Image: Tourism NT/ TImparja Creative)

Meandering through Alice Springs like a lazy Western Brown snake, the Todd River is a central part of Alice Springs culture. Known as an ‘intermittent river’, the Todd can go from a dry dusty riverbed to a flowing waterscape in less than 15 minutes after heavy rainfall.

When it’s dry, the famous Henley on Todd Regatta fills the sandy riverbed with handmade ‘boats’ carried by sailors. This is the world’s only dry river boating event, and it’s referenced in the ‘Silvergum Boat Race’ in the movie. Inspired by the real-life event, the characters built quirky “Flintstones-style boats” and competed in teams.

See Kangaroo in cinemas now, and start planning your NT getaway at northernterritory.com.