Darwin offers an unforgettable holiday experience for every type of traveller and when it comes to the best accommodation, whether you’re a solo traveller or a large group, there’s no shortage of Airbnbs to book for your stay.
From luxurious waterfront homes to cosy garden bungalows, and relaxed beachfront apartments, Urban List has carefully curated a list of the top stays in Darwin.
So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we delve into the best Airbnbs that give you direct access to this vibrant city.
Bayview | Sleeps 10 Infinity’s Edge
Oh hello lush infinity pool and uninterrupted marina views. If you're looking for a waterfront pad with the best open-plan design that's big enough for the whole gang, this is your sign to stop looking.
Your brand-new Darwin Airbnb has hotel-quality linens, black-out curtains and air conditioning to make your stay super comfortable. Plonk yourself next to the pool, drink in hand, and savour those views or hop into one of the four complimentary kayaks (there's two for adults and two for kids) and head out for an adventure on the marina. There's cycle tracks and parks to explore too, and you're just minutes from the CBD for the rest of the fun stuff.
Fannie Bay | Sleeps 4 The Boho Casa
Embrace a bit of boho at this gorg resort-style stay just a minute’s drive from Sunset beach and foreshore and less than 10 minutes’ drive from Darwin Golf Club and the CBD. Your beautifully styled Airbnb has a lovely living space with wooden floors, an open-plan kitchen and a large comfy couch for evening wind-downs.
Settle yourself in the dedicated study nook if you need to get that laptop out—chances are you’ll find us and the cheese and crackers living our best lives outside by the pool. There’s a barbecue out here too, for firing up come burger-time.
The Gardens | Sleeps 8 Gardens Villa
Described by the hosts as a "sumptuous poolside family oasis" this Darwin Airbnb will take your vacay game up a notch. It's nestled in the sought-after neighbourhood of The Gardens and gives mega resort vibes, with the best private swimming pool and outdoor dining zone that will send the whole gang straight to barbecue heaven.
Grab a book and find a nook on one of the two patio areas, or perhaps a cheeky Aperol Spritz on a lounger by the pool is more your thing? Your four-bedroom accomodation can comfortably handle up to eight guests and is just footsteps from the Botanic Gardens, Mindil Beach Sunset Market, as well as the CBD and Waterfront Precinct for all the city fun.
Parap | Sleeps 8 Lily Pad Retreat
Gather the gang and prepare for a Darwin holiday to remember, at this entertainer’s dream within walking distance of Parap village. This Airbnb has everything you need for a seriously good time: think dual living areas, a massive kitchen (yes, there’s a butler’s pantry), a barbecue by the pool and outdoor seating for a whopping ten people.
Roll on up outside and the first thing you’ll see is the feature pond at the front door. Inside, you’ll find light-filled spaces and glass sliding doors that bring the outside in. This place is so good we reckon you might not want to leave, but if you do you’ll find a beach and scenic cycling path within a 15-minute walk, and a trip to Darwin CBD takes the same time by car.
Girraween | Sleeps 2 Pelican Lagoon
Up for something a little bit different? If you don’t mind a 30-minute drive into Darwin CBD, this place may give you all the feels. It’s a nature retreat where you can expect to enjoy a whole load of R&R and birdwatching but it’s got phone reception and data so you won’t be out of comms.
Described as a “calm and peaceful” Airbnb, Pelican Lagoon is set on a lovely lakefront and it’s got five star reviews galore. Inside, expect a rustic cabin-like feel with wooden floors, bespoke art pieces and oodles of character. Take a seat on the deck with a view of the wetlands and you’ll feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but rest assured, you’re an easy drive from those bright lights and all the shops if a spot of retail therapy calls.
Larrakeyah | Sleeps 8 Beachside Retreat in Cullen Bay
Call a townhouse just steps from the beach home at this Darwin Airbnb, that’s within walking distance of all the popular restaurants in Cullen Bay. This place is the best choice for small groups, thanks to its two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout, with a mezzanine king bed and a sofa bed in the lounge.
Those who nab the main bedroom are winners here, as it’s got its own private balcony with views over the water. But there’s other outdoor areas too, including a spacious outdoor patio with dining furniture and a cooling plunge pool. An added plus? This place has private access to the best grassy area that just calls out for a sunset picnic paired with a glass of bubbles. Bliss.
Darwin City | Sleeps 5 Vacay In Heart Of Dining & Street Art Precinct
Conveniently located only a moment's walk from the heart of Darwin’s CBD, this family-friendly Airbnb offers you direct access to supermarkets, bars, restaurants and shopping, as well as being only a short distance from Darwin’s waterfront precinct, botanical gardens and Mindil beach.
Embrace a light and airy space equipped with a heap of stuff, including a coffee machine, pantry supplies, indoor pool and gym. This accommodation has off-street parking and also provides gear for the littlest travellers, including a porta cot, high chair and a small selection of sanitised toys at no extra cost. Win!
Stuart Park | Sleeps 4 Above & Beyond
Cuppa on the balcony with a view of the Darwin skyline anyone? Book a stay at this modern Airbnb and that'll become your daily ritual. This place has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, which is handy if you're travelling with friends—and there's an additional study for those who need to WFH during their stay.
Whip up a feast in the chef's kitchen, or lace up your trainers for a spot of cardio in the complex's shared gym. There's an on-site pool for an outdoor dip if you fancy it, and you're a short drive into the centre of the city in case a spot of exploring calls.
Coconut Grove | Sleeps 2 Coopers Rest Too
Tempted by a place where the outside space is a little extra? This Darwin Airbnb has a shared tropical garden with organic fruit trees, veggies and hideaways that you can snuggle into and relax with a good book.
The accommodation is spotless and offers a queen size bed with a big ensuite and the best shower. There's a fully-equipped kitchen, lounge room and separate dining space too. If you're in Darwin to work as well as play you'll be pleased to know this pad has a dedicated workspace—and once you've cleared that inbox we reckon a dip in the tempting shared outdoor pool is just the treat you need.
Parap | Sleeps 2 Private Self-Contained Villa
Your own self-contained villa just a three-minute walk from the Saturday Parap market and a 15-minute stroll from the market at Mindal beach, this Darwin Airbnb is perfect for couples or those seeking a solo stay.
Pack your bathers because a morning swim in the shared pool right outside your door will tempt you. There's a kitchenette for whipping up a snack post-dip, or dig in to the brekky of cereal, yoghurt and bread provided by your champion hosts. Later in the day, we reckon a wander to Darwin's oldest seaside club, the Darwin Trailer Boat Club, might be order. It offers drinks, nibbles and some seriously good sunsets.
Darwin City | Sleeps 6 Limani
This Darwin Airbnb offers stunning views from every window and 180-degree panoramic views of the CBD from the spacious balcony, so grab a glass of something spesh, head out there and drink it all in.
Your three-bedroom, two-bathroom accommodation is in a prime location, close to public transport and walking distance of some of the best restaurants, cafes and shops that Darwin has to offer. It sleeps six guests too, so the whole crew can come join in the fun. Throw in air conditioning, a washing machine and dryer, high-speed internet and private parking for two vehicles and your Darwin vacay game just got strong.
Contributors: Katherine Davison
Image credit: Airbnb
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