Derby

Derby, the oldest town in the Kimberley, is a sun-baked, laid-back gateway to some of Western Australia's most dramatic landscapes. Set on the shores of King Sound, it's a place where the red earth meets the turquoise sea, and the famous Boab Prison Tree stands as a silent witness to a complex past. With its frontier spirit and proximity to the Gibb River Road, Derby is a perfect launchpad for adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Boab Prison Tree – This massive, ancient boab tree (over 1,500 years old) was infamously used as a holding cell for Indigenous prisoners on their way to Derby. It's a poignant, must-see landmark just outside town.
• Derby Jetty – Stroll out on the 2.7 km-long jetty (the longest in Australia) for sweeping views of King Sound and the chance to spot mudskippers and birdlife at low tide.
• Mowanjum Aboriginal Art & Cultural Centre – Just 10 km away, this community-run centre showcases incredible Wandjina and Gwion art, with authentic works for sale and stories from the Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunumbal peoples.
• Derby's Sunset over the Mudflats – Head to the wharf or the lookout near the jetty as the sun sets over the mudflats, painting the sky in fiery hues – a classic Kimberley moment.
• King Sound – Famous for its 12-metre tides, the second highest in the world. Time your visit to see the dramatic tidal changes along the coast.

Suggested Time to Spend

Derby itself is compact, so one full day is enough to see the main sights, including the Prison Tree, jetty, and cultural centre. However, most travellers use Derby as a base for 2–3 days to stock up supplies before tackling the Gibb River Road or exploring the nearby Buccaneer Archipelago by boat or scenic flight.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gibb River Road – The iconic 4WD route through the Kimberley starts here; allow 7–14 days for the full journey.
• Horizontal Falls – A breathtaking natural phenomenon in the Buccaneer Archipelago, accessible by boat or seaplane from Derby.
• Windjana Gorge & Tunnel Creek – About 150 km east, these dramatic gorges are part of the Devonian Reef and are often visited on a day trip or as a stop on the Gibb River Road.
• Broome – 220 km southwest, with its famous Cable Beach, pearl history, and vibrant multicultural atmosphere – a great bookend to a Kimberley trip.
• Fitzroy Crossing – Southeast along the Great Northern Highway, gateway to Geikie Gorge and the ancient landscapes of the Fitzroy River.

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