Check out our guide to the towns around Darwin, each with its own personality.
From Adelaide River’s rich history to Palmerston’s family-friendly fun and Wagait Beach’s stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s exploring, hitting up local markets, or just relaxing by the water, we sure do live in one proper amazing place.
Adelaide River
Just south of Darwin is Adelaide River, a small town that’s played a big part in our history.
This is Kungarrakan and Awarai land, and over the years, the town has been pretty important to the Territory’s story. It played a major role during World War II, was a key stop for mail runs, and was a hub for goldfield transport back in the late 1800s.
These days, it’s a handy spot for anyone travelling along the Stuart Highway and a great place to take a break. The Railway Heritage Precinct lets you check out equipment from the old 1880s rail line that supported the Pine Creek goldfields.
The Fold Loves // Saying hello to Charli, the taxidermy water buffalo who starred in Crocodile Dundee and now is set up at the Adelaide River Inn.
Discover Adelaide River
Darwin
A capital city like no other!
Super multicultural, super friendly and suuuuuuuuuper laidback!
We’ve really only got two seasons in Darwin, the wet and the dry. In the dry season, you’ll catch lots of markets, outdoor events and community fun. Wet season is when we head out to see local waterfalls in all their glory or duck inside one of the many tasty eating and drinking spots around town.
Darwin is broken up into suburbs like the CBD which is prime for apartment living and shopping, Nightcliff which is right on the coast and filled with cool shops and trendy cafes and bars and Fannie Bay which has loads of lovely townhouses and is popular for sailing. Plus many more suburbs to explore.
The Fold Loves // Watching a glorious sunset at the markets on Mindil Beach
Discover Darwin
Howard Springs
A growing town with big blocks, mango farms and plenty of birdlife for spotting.
The Howard Springs Nature Park is nearby and is fab for max-relaxing by natural springs.
Keep an eye out for turtles, barra and other fresh-water fishies. There are also walking tracks for exploring.
The skatepark in the centre of town is a fun place for some rolling and riding, and the attached playground is ideal for letting kiddos burn off some steam.
The Fold Loves // Having a family BBQ and a paddle at the Howard Springs Nature Park
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Palmerston
Palmerston is the second biggest town in our region and a top spot to live and play. With a golf course nearby, parks, a tennis centre, a skate park, and heaps of other sporting facilities, there are plenty of ways to get moving here.
During the dry season, the Palmerston Markets are the place to be, packed with tasty bites and all kinds of goodies. And for more retail therapy, Palmerston has four shopping centres to explore.
Palmerston Water Park is excellent for all ages. It has an epic six-lane racer water slide, splash zones, a wading pool, and plenty of BBQ and picnic spots to make a day of it.
The Fold Loves // Taking a stroll around Marlow Lagoon Recreation Area
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Tiwi Islands
The Tiwi Islands are a truly special part of the world.
Made up of Melville and Bathurst Islands, along with nine smaller uninhabited ones, most residents here are Aboriginal people who speak Tiwi as their first language, alongside English.
The Aboriginal art scene is amazing, with plenty of spots to admire and buy unique pieces. Football is just as big here, with AFL being the name of the game. The Tiwi Islands Football League is a local favourite, and the annual Football and Art Sale is a standout event.
It’s important to know that the Tiwi Islands are Aboriginal land, so all visitors need a permit to explore this incredible destination.
The Fold Loves // Taking a cultural tour to learn more about the place and its people.
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Wagait Beach
We like to think of Wagait Beach as one of our best-kept secrets.
It’s just a short ferry ride or drive from Darwin City and is perfect for relaxing and enjoying some quiet beach time.
Stroll or jog along the 2km stretch of Wagait Beach, swim with the puppers, or head to nearby secluded spots like Imaluk Beach.
For fishing, the Mandorah Jetty is where to head or try casting from the beach itself.
Grab a bite at Cox Country Club, or fire up the BBQ at the sports ground.
The Fold Loves // Taking a walk east from Wagait Beach to the Jetty and discovering the WWII heritage relics along the way.
Discover Wagait Beach
