Darwin in December gives you a totally unique festive experience with its tropical climate, characterised by high temperatures and the start of the wet season. With temps typically ranging from 25°c to 33°c and plenty of humidity, December is lovely if you love a warm, lush environment and the occasional exciting storm.
A Lush Escape
Many people visiting Darwin for the first time expect a dry, desert landscape, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Darwin is a tropical wonderland full of lush monsoonal forests and clear, fresh waterways.
One of the top spots for nature lovers within Darwin City is the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. This urban oasis features a huge collection of tropical and subtropical plants, including native Australian species and exotic imports. During December in Darwin, the gardens are in full bloom, so you’ll get the best experience as you stroll through each themed section.
Darwin has quite a few natural areas in or close to the city, so once you’ve explored the Botanic Gardens, you could walk over to East Point Reserve, with its attractive open spaces and walking tracks. It’s perfect for a scenic stroll or a Christmas picnic with gorgeous views over the ocean. The reserve also includes wetlands and mangroves that are home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
The Cullen Bay Marina nearby is also a picturesque area with its waterfront promenades and parks. This area is excellent for an evening visit, so you can enjoy the sunset over the marina and the cool breezes that come off the water while sipping on a cocktail at one of the local bars.
For a walking adventure outside of the city, nothing’s as beautiful as the phenomenal Litchfield National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and serene pools. The park’s lush landscapes and refreshing waterholes are perfect for escaping the heat and spotting unique Aussie wildlife.
Seasonal Celebrations
December in Darwin had plenty of festive cheer with a number of local events and celebrations happening. The City of Darwin Carols by Candlelight is a huge highlight, but there’s plenty of smaller Christmas activities and many of our Things To Do in Darwin activities will have a festive twist this month.
Travelling at another time? Check out what to expect from Darwin in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
