Local time Darwin

Currency

A$

Shopping in Darwin

Darwin offers plenty of opportunities for shoppers looking out for Aboriginal arts and crafts as well as pearls. 

Key areas

Aboriginal art, such as bark paintings, painted didgeridoos and boomerangs, is available at the Aboriginal Fine Arts Gallery, on the corner of Knuckey and Mitchell streets.

Some of the world's best pearls (well, those that haven't already been shipped to Japan) are on sale at Paspaley Pearls, on Bennett Street off The Mall. Diamonds are a big thing up here too and, if you fancy a rare pink one, from the Argyle Diamond Mine in Kununurra, you can choose from plenty at Creative Jewellers, located at 27 Smith Street, The Mall.

Markets

Look for arts and crafts, clothing and jewellery, hemp designer clothings or copper sculptures at Nightcliff weekend market, where there are also food stalls and even the chance to enjoy a massage, reflexology or a card reading. It takes place every Sunday from 0600 to 1400. On Saturday, from 8am to 2pm, head to the Parap Village Market for local produce, arts and crafts, entertainment and global cuisine.

In the dry season, head for the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets where you can shop as the sun drops into the ocean and where live entertainment contributes to a party atmosphere. Every Friday evening between May and October, the Palmerston and Rural Markets provide great entertainment, exotic foods, jewellery, arts and craft, plants, local bands and buskers and much more, with more than 160 stalls available.

Shopping centres

Most of the shopping malls have moved to the suburbs – head to Casuarina, Hibiscus, Karama, Rapid Creek, Palmerston and Northlakes. The one remaining mall in Darwin city centre is the Smith Street Mall.

Opening hours

General city shopping hours are Monday to Friday from 0900 to 1730, Saturday 0900 to 1700, and Sunday 0900 to 1500.

Souvenirs

There's an incredible array of paintings, sculpture and textiles available at Darwin's diverse commercial galleries and artist-run centres. Pearls and diamonds are also popular purchases.

Tax information

There is a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is included on the price tags.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

Book Accommodation

Featured Hotels

SEE MORE

Value Inn

Don't be put off by the name, all the rooms in this affordable city centre hotel feature queen sized beds, a single bed, air conditioning and en suite facilities. There are also three pools, a licensed bar, and a spa available for guest use at Melaleuca on Mitchell, the award-winning backpackers hangout across the road.

Oaks Elan Darwin

This impressive newbie is a 301-room property with a range of one- and two-bed apartments. It has a decent central location, while the in-house restaurant, O.A.K., is another good reason to visit. Private balconies, air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi are all part of the deal too.

The Cavenagh

This centrally located hotel is a great base from which to explore Darwin's vibrant nightlife. The Cav also delivers a touch of luxury, with a large outdoor swimming pool, TV lounge and free Wi-Fi throughout, in addition to a cozy bar and restaurant.

Skycity Darwin

It's always a gamble staying at a casino, especially if you're open to temptations. This place is a winner, though. It's a casino hotel set among 7 hectares (17 acres) of tropical beachside gardens. There is a selection of dining options on-site as well as a pool. It's also very close to the Mindil Beach Markets.

Mantra Pandanas

Neatly situated in the heart of the city, Mantra Pandanas has 336 hotel rooms as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments, some with private balconies overlooking the harbour and city. Expect a chic tropical style, evident in the modern rooms and down at the pool, which features its own waterfall.

Chillis Backpackers

A lively backpacker joint in peak season, this hostel offers budget rooms in the heart of the city, with a mix of private doubles and shared dormitory accommodation. Facilities include a launderette, a pool, an internet cafe, a sun deck and a kitchen. There are even a couple of (mercifully cool) whirlpool Jacuzzis.