27 March 2025
7 mins Read
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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No thanks, I like to travel solo
Hi Kate,
Sadly missed the Brolga winner for the 4-4.5 Deluxe winner for the best superior accommodation in the Northern Territory in 2023, H on Mitchell Hotel.