Hilton properties at Darwin: Which is the "best"?

Hilton properties at Darwin: Which is the "best"?

Of the three Hilton properties at Darwin (Hilton Darwin, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade Darwin, and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Darwin) which is the newest/most modern? I'm assuming that all offer water views given a high enough room category is purchased.

The Hilton has had the newest refurb and the best views, both Doubletrees on the esplanade are a bit tired and the rooms need a bit of work. If I can't get in the Hilton I stay at Doubletree 116 esplanade, it has a great pool and outdoor area but be careful with room selection as there are big grills across the front of the hotel that were put on after Tracy so I book the loft rooms which have a clear view or upgrade to one of the terrace rooms. Try Hanuman for a great feed and Char for a top notch steak, the teppanyaki next to the Hilton is also nice.

Couldn't agree more with GBRGB

there is a write up on AusBT on Darwin Hilton. Stayed in Sept and enjoyed it.

In most cases, given the way Hilton brand hotels, a Hilton will be a 'better' hotel than a Doubletree.

Unless a hell of a lot has changed, be prepared for 1980's staying at the Doubletree 116 Esplanade.

Very true Colin, stayed there this year when the V8 were on, the bathrooms have never been touched since construction, and the rest of the room touched up at best, they only just change the TV,s to a flat screen but the reception is terrible, if these hotels were anywhere else they would be empty but it seems in Darwin people just look past the defects. Some new hotels coming on the market and the gas boom winding down may force them to upgrade or drop their prices, I paid $400 a night during race weekend, ridiculous.

To give you idea how old some of the hotels are the Double Tree Hilton 122 Esplande is the original Darwin Travelodge that survived Cyclone Tracey!! Same build as the Holiday Inn Townsville.  116 was the Sheraton many moons ago , then holiday inn but all the rooms are stuffy unless you can get the spa room suite. Has a spa on the balcony awesome setup overlooking the harbour. The old 122 I like as it has balcony doors and can open up overlooking the harbour and enjoy the balmy darwin weather. Vist the the bar at 122 has lots of great photos of the cyclone. 116 has the best pool by far out of all three hotels.  You can use the pool if staying at 122 by the way.

Long time reader first time caller here ;-)

Completely agree with all above.... Doubletree is a double thumbs down.

Booked there Newyear last gone, never again. Will be sticking with Flagship branding from here on.

Prices are relative to product, but as Darwin is, all prices are over inflated...especially in peak season, they get ridiculous for what you get.

That being said, Darwin great if you like a cocktail n a meal.  Try The Ducks Nuts nearby the hotel...then head down the the waterside precinct, some cool spots to be tried.Nice Mexican spot there ...

Think its an accor or something down esplanade towards the waterfront from the doubletree...They say online they have the best Cocktails in town......DONT BE FOOLED.....unless you like $2 cocktails for $18

Hi

i stay at the Double Tree 122 Esplanade all the time, all rooms have been refurbished and are great, very modern now. I've never stayed there when it was the dated decor. Very spacious bathrooms and bedrooms which for me is a must when staying in a hotel. 

Josephine is the hotel manager, she is great and very friendly, always welcomes me back and gives me complimentary upgrade on occasion.

Also, if you're there on a Wedneday and are a Hilton Honoyrs silver or above, free drinks for 2 hours (5pm-7pm).

I frequent Darwin about 6 times a year for a 4 nights each time, I'm happy at 122 Esplanade. 

cheers,

tom 

Thank you all for your very helpful input!