Darwinians think a little differently when it comes to romance. It might have something to do with the heat or perhaps it’s the rugged nature of the NT. What else could explain a local’s ‘romantic recommendation’ of a threesome with Chopper the crocodile in the Cage of Death? Darwin in Australia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of romance but Australia’s northern-most capital offers plenty of great Darwin restaurants and activities to enjoy with your partner, either with or without crocs. Here are some ideas for your romantic Darwin getaway.

Sail Darwin sunset cruise

Slip off your shoes and watch one of Darwin’s famous sunsets from the deck of Sundancer, a luxury 50ft ocean-going catamaran which sails around the harbour as evening descends. Complimentary bubbly flows freely and a tapas-style dinner featuring local prawns, chicken satays, grilled haloumi and barbeque steak is served throughout the cruise. With over 100sqm of deck space it is easy to find your own secluded spot to watch the sun go down.

Stay in style at Elan Soho Suites

Elan Soho Suites is one of Darwin’s newest accommodation options with a striking minimalist design and bold red, grey and black colour scheme. With a dress circle location and rooms ranging from upmarket hotel suites to spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, this hotel is also popular with locals seeking a romantic getaway. Time your stay for a weekend when Darwin accommodation prices drop by up to 50%. 

Eat your way around Parap Village Markets

Celebrate Darwin’s close proximity to Asia at the Parap Village Markets where the only thing rivalling the fabulous food is the equally fabulous vibe. Grab a mango smoothie and stroll through stalls selling everything from vibrantly coloured ornamental ginger to Vietnamese spring rolls, roti pancakes and Mary’s famous laksa. The latter is rumoured to be a failsafe hangover cure.

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Fine dining Darwin style

Locals and tourists flock to Pee Wee’s at the Point for stunning sunset views and Territory-influenced dishes such as coconut crusted crocodile tail. It is a popular date-night restaurant as is Hanuman which celebrates South-East Asian, Indian and Nonya style-cuisine with a sophisticated blend of flavours. Hanuman provides the catering at Deckchair Cinema on Wednesday and Friday nights.

Have a threesome with a crocodile

Hold each other tight as a huge saltwater crocodile circles your acrylic-strengthened “glass” cage with a toothy, menacing grin. Climbing into the Cage of Death at Crocosaurus Cove offers couples a much bigger adrenalin rush than watching the sunset.

Outdoor movie at the Deckchair Cinema

Famous for its hundreds of colourful deckchairs and eclectic selection of films, this atmospheric outdoor cinema run by the Darwin Film Society operates seven nights a week during the dry season. Movie goers come here to enjoy the friendly atmosphere along with a drink from the bar, a homemade picnic or dinner from the on-site caterer which changes daily.

Disclosure: The writer travelled to Darwin as a guest of NT Tourism.

If you are looking for some more information about Darwin, check out our review of the Hilton Darwin, the Australian Aviation Heritage Centre and what to expect on The Ghan if you’re travelling to Darwin to board this iconic train.