Broome Pearl Farms

Broome’s pearl farms are the heart of the region’s fascinating pearling history, offering a window into a world where courage, skill and natural beauty combine. Set against the stunning backdrop of Roebuck Bay, these working farms invite you to witness the meticulous art of pearl cultivation and the legacy of the industry that put Broome on the map.

Highlights & What to See

• Willie Creek Pearl Farm – A must-visit for an immersive tour that takes you from the oyster beds to the grading room, with a chance to hold a cultured pearl and learn about the life cycle of the Pinctada maxima oyster.
• Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm – Australia’s oldest operating pearl farm, where you can join a guided tour, enjoy a seafood lunch on the deck, and even try your hand at shell opening.
• Pearling Exhibition at Broome’s Chinatown – While not a farm, this small museum in town provides essential context on the industry’s multicultural roots and the hard lives of the divers.
• Sunset pearl farm cruise – Several operators offer boat trips that combine a farm tour with a sunset sail across Roebuck Bay, often with sparkling wine and canapés.
• Pearl boutiques – After the farm, browse the showrooms in Broome’s Chinatown to see the finished product – from lustrous South Sea pearls to contemporary jewellery designs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate half a day for a single pearl farm tour, including travel time from Broome (allow 1–1.5 hours each way for Willie Creek or Cygnet Bay). If you’re keen on both farms, consider a full-day self-drive itinerary, breaking for lunch at Cygnet Bay’s farm-to-table restaurant. For a more relaxed experience, combine a morning farm tour with an afternoon exploring Broome’s Chinatown and Cable Beach.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Broome (Chinatown & Cable Beach) – The historic town centre and iconic beach are essential complements to any pearl farm visit.
• Gantheaume Point & Dinosaur Footprints – Just south of Broome, see ancient dinosaur tracks preserved in the reef rocks at low tide.
• Horizontal Falls – A spectacular natural phenomenon in the Buccaneer Archipelago, accessible by scenic flight or boat tour from Broome.
• Kimberley Coast – For those with more time, the rugged wilderness of the Kimberley region offers dramatic gorges, waterfalls and Aboriginal rock art.

Please check official sources for current details.