Roebuck Bay

Roebuck Bay, a shimmering expanse of turquoise water on the edge of Broome, is a breathtaking natural amphitheatre where the Indian Ocean meets the red pindan cliffs. This tidal bay is renowned for its dramatic 10-metre tides, which reveal vast sandflats at low tide and create a dynamic, ever-changing landscape. It's a place where ancient Indigenous culture, spectacular wildlife, and laid-back coastal living converge, offering travellers a quintessential Kimberley experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Staircase to the Moon: From March to October, the full moon rising over the exposed tidal flats creates a stunning optical illusion of a staircase leading to the moon. Head to Town Beach or Mangrove Hotel for the best views.
• Birdwatching on the Roebuck Bay Shorebird Trail: The bay is a critical stopover for migratory shorebirds. Visit the Broome Bird Observatory or explore the hides at the 12-Mile Birdhide for incredible sightings.
• Dinosaur Footprints: At low tide, walk along Gantheaume Point to see ancient dinosaur tracks embedded in the reef, which are over 130 million years old. Casts are also visible at the point.
• Chinatown & Broome's Pearling History: Just a short walk from the bay, explore the historic streets of Chinatown, with its pearl showrooms, galleries, and the fascinating Broome Historical Museum.
• Sunset at Roebuck Bay: The bay offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in Australia. Grab a drink at the Mangrove Hotel or simply sit on the sand at Town Beach as the sky ignites in shades of orange and purple.

Suggested Time to Spend

Roebuck Bay is best experienced over two to three days, allowing you to catch both a low-tide exploration and a Staircase to the Moon event (if timed right). Spend one day walking the dinosaur footprints and visiting the bird observatory, another exploring Broome's cultural sights, and a third simply relaxing by the bay. For a quick stop, a full day will let you see the main highlights, but you'll miss the rhythmic pull of the tides.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cable Beach: Broome's famous 22-kilometre stretch of white sand and turquoise water, perfect for swimming, camel rides, and sunset viewing.
• Broome Town: The historic pearling port offers a vibrant mix of cultures, with excellent restaurants, galleries, and the Sun Pictures outdoor cinema.
• Willie Creek Pearl Farm: Take a tour to see how South Sea pearls are cultivated, set in a stunning tidal creek environment.
• Horizontal Falls: A unique natural phenomenon where tidal currents force water through narrow gorges, creating a 'horizontal waterfall'. Accessible by scenic flight or boat tour.
• Geikie Gorge National Park: A dramatic gorge carved by the Fitzroy River, about 400 km east, offering boat cruises and walks through ancient reefs.

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