Photo: Dan arndt / CC BY-SA 4.0
Gantheaume Point, just a short drive from Broome, is a stunning red sandstone headland that plunges into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Famous for its ancient dinosaur footprints and dramatic coastal scenery, this spot offers a raw, beautiful slice of Western Australia's Kimberley coast. The contrast between the deep red rocks and the brilliant blue sea is mesmerizing, especially at sunset.
Highlights & What to See
- Dinosaur footprints – Visible at low tide on the reef platform, these 130-million-year-old tracks are among the best-preserved in Australia. Check tide times to see them.
- Gantheaume Point Lighthouse – A historic structure perched on the cliff, offering panoramic views of the coastline and Roebuck Bay.
- Rock pools and eroded formations – The sandstone has been sculpted into curious shapes by wind and waves; explore the tiny pools at low tide for marine life.
- Sunset viewing – The point is one of Broome's top spots for watching the sun dip into the ocean, painting the rocks in fiery hues.
- Staircase to the Moon – During certain months, the full moon rising over the mudflats creates an optical illusion of a staircase; Gantheaume Point offers a quieter vantage point than the popular Town Beach.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allocate 1–2 hours for a visit, ideally timed around low tide to see the dinosaur footprints. Combine it with a morning or afternoon exploring Broome's other attractions, such as Cable Beach or the Chinatown district. If you're a keen photographer, plan to stay for sunset and allow extra time to wander the headland.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Cable Beach – A 22-km stretch of white sand, famous for sunset camel rides and clear turquoise water, just a 10-minute drive away.
- Broome Town (Chinatown) – The historic pearling centre with galleries, pearl showrooms, and outdoor cafes; about 10 minutes south.
- Roebuck Bay – A haven for migratory shorebirds and the site of the 'Staircase to the Moon' phenomenon; explore the Broome Bird Observatory.
- Willie Creek Pearl Farm – A working pearl farm offering tours of the cultivation process, located 30 minutes north of Broome.
- Horizontal Falls – A natural phenomenon in the Buccaneer Archipelago, accessible by seaplane or boat tour from Broome (full-day trip).
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.