Photo: Kat Clay from Sydney, Australia / CC BY 2.0
Broome is the pearling capital of Australia, a sun-drenched outpost where the red pindan soil meets the turquoise Indian Ocean. This laid-back town offers a unique blend of Aboriginal culture, pioneering history, and spectacular natural beauty, with Cable Beach as its crown jewel. The town's Asian-influenced architecture and multicultural heritage reflect its pearling past, making it a fascinating stop on any Kimberley itinerary.
Highlights & What to See
- Cable Beach: A 22-km stretch of white sand lapped by crystal-clear waters, famous for its camel rides at sunset. The red cliffs and turquoise sea create a photographer's dream.
- Gantheaume Point: Explore dinosaur footprints embedded in the rocks, visible at low tide. The red sandstone contrasts beautifully with the blue ocean.
- Broome Historical Museum: Housed in a former post office, this museum tells the story of Broome's pearling industry, its multicultural community, and the impact of World War II.
- Chinatown: A compact area with historic pearling buildings, art galleries, and the famous Sun Pictures, the world's oldest operating outdoor cinema.
- Roebuck Bay: A Ramsar-listed wetland teeming with migratory birds and marine life. Take a guided walk at low tide to see the 'Staircase to the Moon' phenomenon (March to October).
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow at least three full days to experience Broome's highlights. Spend the first day relaxing on Cable Beach and watching the sunset, the second exploring the town's history and Chinatown, and a third for a day trip to the nearby Horizontal Falls or a scenic flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago. If you have more time, consider a four-wheel-drive adventure along the Gibb River Road.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Horizontal Falls: A unique natural phenomenon where tidal currents force water through narrow gorges, creating a 'horizontal waterfall'. Accessible by seaplane or boat from Broome.
- Kununurra: Gateway to the Kimberley, known for its stunning Ord River irrigation area and the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park.
- Derby: A historic town with the famous Boab Prison Tree and a launching point for the Gibb River Road.
- Eighty Mile Beach: A remote, pristine beach perfect for fishing and solitude, about a three-hour drive south of Broome.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.