The best things to do in Darwin's wet season

Here's why you should come to Darwin in the wet season

If you're not familiar with our unique seasons up North, we have two - the wet season from November to April, and the dry season from May to October.

The names are a clear giveaway, with the wet season being the rainy time of year and the dry season being when we get next to no rainfall.


The dry is typically when most tourists come to the Top End, but many locals will argue that the wet season is in fact the superior season.

Catch a million dollar barramundi

The Top End has some of the best barramundi fishing in the world all year round, but the wet season is a particularly good time to throw your line in.


The NT's famous Million Dollar Fish Competition runs from October to March, giving fishos the chance to win in a huge pool of prize money. You don't have to be an experienced fisherman to catch a winning barra. Choose from a range of tours that can take you to the best barra spots in the Top End.


Find out more about the Million Dollar Fish Competition at Hudson Berrimah.

Image: Barra Fishing

Explore national parks at their more lush

The wet season is when our national parks are at their most spectacular. The tropical rains turn the land lush and green, with waterfalls overflowing and an explosion of plant and animal life. There are also significantly less tourists around in the wet, so you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquillity.


Head to Litchfield for a day trip if you're keen to cool off in some swimming holes. Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole and Cascades are open year round.


If you're up for more of an adventure, take a scenic flight in Kakadu to see thundering waterfalls in full flow.

Image: Jim Jim Falls in Kakadu

Watch electrifying storms & vibrant sunsets

Darwin is known as the storm capital of Australia, with spectacular monsoonal storms rolling in and lighting up the skies throughout the wet season. Moody clouds in the distance also make for an incredible sunset.


Our favourite spot to watch the storms and sunsets are Nightcliff Jetty, East Point reserve and at the beach-front Ski Club with a cold beer in hand!

Image: Sunset at Vesteys Beach

Discover restaurants & bars in the CBD

Darwin's thriving food scene has been on the rise over the last few years, offering locals and visitors a huge range of places to eat and drink.


Head into Charlie's of Darwin to enjoy a cocktail or gin on the terrace overlooking Raintree Park, before strolling down Austin Lane and stopping in for a bite to eat at Little Miss Korea.


Other local recommendations in the CBD include Meraki for delicious Greek food, Hotel Darwin for a classic pub experience and Stone House for a wine and tapas.

Image: Little Miss Korea

Cool off at the Darwin Waterfront

Cooling off in the wet season is a must, and the Darwin Waterfront has things to do for the whole family.


Have a boogie board in the Wave Pool or relax at the Bali Beach Club while the kids play on the giant floating Aqua Park.

The Waterfront has a range of food and drink venues, from Mexican and Italian, to fish and chips. Order takeaway to eat on the lawns or dine in and enjoy waterfront views.

Image: Darwin Waterfront Wave Lagoon

Apartments in Darwin
12 Feb, 2024
Discover fishing in Darwin, with trips for groups between 2 to 8 people and over 30 species of fish to catch. Book your stay at Hudson Apartment Hotels today.
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If you’re looking for a family-stay in Darwin, Hudson Apartment Hotels have got you covered. We offer a range of accommodation options for different family sizes and budgets, all located nearby to family-friendly fun. Not too far from our Parap property, immerse your family in the rich cultural experience of the NT Art and Gallery Museum. This delightful and free family activity showcases the vibrant artistic heritage of the Northern Territory. Read on to see some of the great activities available throughout the top end green season.
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