Broome

Broome is a captivating pearling town on the edge of the Kimberley, where turquoise Indian Ocean waters meet red pindan cliffs. This remote outpost blends Aboriginal heritage, a fascinating multicultural past, and laid-back tropical vibes. Expect stunning sunsets over Cable Beach, lively markets, and a gateway to the wild Kimberley region.

Highlights & What to See

• Cable Beach – 22 km of pristine white sand; time your visit for sunset when the camel trains add a surreal touch. Swim in calm waters or simply soak up the Indian Ocean horizon.
• Gantheaume Point – Dramatic red cliffs and dinosaur footprints visible at low tide. The turquoise rock pools are perfect for photos.
• Broome’s Pearling History – Visit the Pearl Luggers museum or Willie Creek Pearl Farm to understand the town’s lustrous past and see how pearls are cultivated.
• Chinatown – A compact heritage precinct with corrugated-iron buildings housing galleries, boutiques, and the famous Sun Pictures (the world’s oldest operating outdoor cinema).
• Staircase to the Moon – From March to October, the full moon rising over Roebuck Bay creates an optical illusion of a staircase. Check tides for the best viewing.
• Aboriginal Culture – Join a tour with local Bardi-Jawi or Yawuru guides to learn about traditional land management, bush tucker, and creation stories.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days allows you to experience the main sights and relax on Cable Beach. With four days, add a pearl farm tour and a scenic flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago or Horizontal Falls. Longer stays suit travellers heading on to the Gibb River Road or El Questro.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Horizontal Falls – A thrilling boat ride through powerful tidal currents in Talbot Bay, often combined with a scenic flight from Broome.
• Gibb River Road – The iconic 660 km outback route through the Kimberley; start or end your journey in Broome.
• El Questro Wilderness Park – A vast cattle station with gorges, hot springs, and luxury camping, about a day’s drive east.
• Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu National Park) – The beehive-shaped sandstone domes are a World Heritage site, accessible by 4WD or scenic flight.
• Derby – A historic town with the famous Boab Prison Tree and a jumping-off point for the Gibb River Road.

Please check official sources for current details.