Everything about Club Tropical Resort in the month of February, where the weather is consistently warm, humid and wet, is a complete joy to a visitor from Melbourne. The rooms are clean, the bed was very comfortable, and the ability to entertain friends and family are outstanding. The pool is the centerpiece of the whole site, where I spent many hours during my 7 day stay. For anyone who thinks it is too far away from the city of Darwin, there are supermarkets and the entire Casuarina shopping centre within a 5 minute drive. If it is wilderness you want, the resort is right next to that too with Buffalo Creek and Lee Point only a walk away. Parking is great, the restaurant was fantastic, and I am struggling to find anything wrong with my stay. But there was one thing - it was not long enough!
Stayed for a week and had a pretty good experience! Parking at the hotel entrance was convenient and free. Right outside is a grassy park, and the harbor bay is just a short walk away. From the hotel window, you can see playground facilities, which kept the kids entertained for a while. It's also very close to the center, just a 10-minute walk to Coles supermarket and that other green-logo supermarket. The crocodile park is also within walking distance. Just be careful of the local Indigenous people there – keep your distance!
Mantra on the Esplanade worked well for us for the three nights we stayed. Close to the main shops and eateries so plenty of choice there, with a free bus to the large out of town shopping centre too. The room was clean and tidy though a little dated. We were at the back of the hotel which meant the music and noise from the pubs and clubs nearby could be heard til quite late though it didn’t keep us awake.