Hotel rates in Darwin drop dramatically in ‘The Wet', from November through to March, so if you don't mind a drenching you can be assured of picking up a bargain.

The hotels below have been grouped into four different pricing categories:
$$$$ (over A$300)
$$$ (A$200 to A$300)
$$ (A$100 to A$200)
$ (up to A$100)
These prices are for a double room per night and include all taxes but not breakfast, unless specified otherwise.

Skycity Darwin
It's always a gamble staying at a casino, especially if you're open to temptations. This award-winning boutique casino hotel is set among tropical beachside gardens and is the Darwin's best by far. There is a selection of dining options on site, as well as excellent meeting and conference facilities, and a pool.

Gilruth Avenue, Mindil Beach
Tel: (08) 8943 8888.
Website: www.skycitydarwin.com.au
Price: $$$$

Saville Park Suites Darwin
This four-star hotel, situated on The Esplanade, has 140 apartments with kitchens and balconies overlooking Darwin Harbour and the Arafura Sea. There are also 64 hotel rooms, a bar, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool and a spa.

88 The Esplanade
Tel: (08) 8943 4333.
Website: www.savillesuites.com.au
Price: $$$

Holiday Inn Esplanade Darwin
You're just a stone's throw from the water at this large, modern hotel with a pool right on the Esplanade. Non-smoking rooms are available, and there is a business centre and a gym.

The Esplanade
Tel: (08) 8980 0800.
Website: www.holidayinn.com.au
Price: $$

Darwin's Peninsular Apartment Hotel
Situated on the fringe of the Darwin CBD, the Peninsular offers 34 self-catering apartments over four floors. Ideal for families and those on a budget, it has its own swimming pool.115 Smith StreetTel: (08) 8981 1922.Website: www.peninsularapartments.com Price: $$

Darwin Globetrotters YHA
There's a choice of air-conditioned dorms or double rooms at this centrally located YHA, which features a large swimming pool and a bar.

97 Mitchell Street
Tel: (08) 8981 5385 or 1 800 800 798.
Website: www.yha.com.au
Price: $