Living in a busy port city, Darwin’s (Garramilla) locals wake up before dawn to capture the cooler tropical mornings, calmer waters and softer light. As the sun touches the horizon, the palm trees hang a little heavier and the birds fly a little lower, skimming Darwin Harbour’s warm waters. For guests rolling in from The Ghan or wrapping up an Outback Spirit itinerary, those first hours back in the city matter: they provide a convenient, easy and central spot to reset before the next tour leg or the flight home.

Nearby at the Hilton Garden Inn Darwin, mornings are a calm affair. Set back a little from the Harbour’s edge, the hotel’s early hours soundtrack mixes gentle clinking sounds from the cafe downstairs with the squabbling of rainbow lorikeets flying overhead and the regular thrum of runners on the nearby Esplanade.

Bleary-eyed guests gaze at the blue Harbour waters from their balconies, scanning for cruise ships and fishing trawlers – as well as the odd croc – as the peach-glow of the sunrise colours the city.

While those deep, tepid waters aren’t for swimming (due to those crocs, among other things), the hotel’s palm-lined pool certainly is. As you dive into the cool water, you’ll smell the delicious coffee and fresh breakfasts being prepared nearby at Together & Co, the hotel’s popular poolside restaurant.

Recently refurbished as part of a large-scale hotel transformation, Together & Co is a busy hub for locals and guests, who come for experiences like the Bottomless High Tea, served on a generous three-tiered stand. It’s these kinds of unique experiences that make this hotel more than just a place to stay the night, says Todd Grierson, General Manager for Hilton in the Northern Territory.

“From its laid-back design and welcoming service to the locally sourced ingredients featured at Together & Co, we’re proud this hotel embodies Darwin’s warmth, natural beauty and multicultural charm,” he explains.

The aim of the recent refurbishment, he adds, was to reflect the kind of vibrant spirit the Top End is known for, and to invite guests to connect, unwind and explore within its lush grounds.

“Guests leave here with memories of stunning ocean views, seamless comfort and genuine connection,” he says.

With a look that combines modern design and local Top End character, the hotel is a welcome relief from the busy Darwin CBD and post-Outback adventures. Yet, it’s central enough that walking is the obvious mode of transport. Across the road, you’ll find the Esplanade, within a few minutes’ walk is Bicentennial Park, and on Thursdays and Sundays, you can stroll to the famous Mindil Beach Markets, passing the 42-hectare George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens on the way. As you meander along the coastline, watch out for wallabies who sometimes hop across the park in the quiet moments of the day, and look for signs of sea life in the Harbour’s long, muddied tides.

Come late afternoon, Darwin’s city centre is a thriving mass of cultures, cafes and pubs – a heady mix of locals and travellers. For a more relaxed vibe, order a cocktail at the scenic waterfront precinct, or head away from the busy eat streets and amber lights of the city, and enjoy the close of day back at the hotel.

“Sunset is just magical here,” Todd says. “You can enjoy golden views over the Esplanade from the Juliet balconies or poolside, followed by dinner at Together & Co as the city winds down and the tropical evening comes alive.”