Sunsets are always special – a time to reminisce on your days’ activities and marvel at one of nature’s finest productions. It is considered a peaceful time for many, but for us on the road, we call it ‘the golden hour’ – that hour just before the sun dips over the horizon when all the elements of travel filming mesh perfectly together – light, location and action. That is when we secure our best footage.
… And we’re going to share a little secret with you about the perfect place in Australia to catch the ‘golden hour’. And yes, it's free!
Mindil Beach Markets in Darwin, Northern Territory, are located just 15-20 minutes walk from the centre of town and are considered by many as one of the best markets in the entire world. Twilight is the peak period when the burnt-red sky creates a truly sensational backdrop to the 280 art, craft and food stalls lining the foreshore.
The markets attract around 500,000 people every year and are open Thursdays (5pm – 10pm) and Sundays (4pm – 9pm) from May to October - so even if you are only in Darwin for a few days, chances are you’ll be able to enjoy this true highlight of the Top End.
There is a definite tropical feel, with palm trees scattered amongst the stalls and colourful lanterns lighting up the way. We suggest a stroll onto Mindil Beach to watch the sun melt into the water, and if you do have that special someone, a bottle of red would not go astray.
Mindil Markets are recognized as an Icon of National Significance and have been awarded the Charles See Kee Award for contribution to multiculturalism in Australia. This is no surprise considering the huge variety of international cuisine to choose from –Thai, European, Indonesian – you name it!
Once you’ve filled up, musicians and buskers will play the perfect background soundtrack as you try to work out how much art and craft you can fit in your luggage… Seriously though, there are things here that you would not find anywhere else in Australia!
So, if you love sunsets, good food and love unique souvenirs of your travels, than the Mindil Markets are it! And being Darwin’s premier attraction, you wouldn’t want to go home saying you missed out would you?
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