Broome is a small coastal town located in the remote northwest region of Australia. Steeped with a rich multicultural history, Broome serves as the gateway to the rest of the Kimberley region. A popular tourist destination, Broome has the most incredible natural attractions that draw visitors to the town each year.
Broome is also home to amazing beaches and resorts that offer the opportunity to relax and disconnect. This Broome travel guide has all you need to know about the best things to do in Broome, Western Australia (from someone who has been there 4 times!).
Top Things to Do in Broome
Explore the Remarkable Gantheaume Point
Gantheaume Point is one of the places to see in Broome that I recommend to everyone. It was the first place I visited in Broome on my first trip in 2019 and remains my favourite spot in Broome.
Characterised by the contrast of red rock against azure blue water, Gantheaume Point is located a 10-minute drive from Cable Beach.
Head to Gantheaume Point in search of fossilised dinosaur footprints, seek out hidden rock pools or just admire the unique terrain and the stunning coastal vistas.
Spend a Day at Cable Beach
Cable Beach is the main beach in Broome. With a long, flat stretch of white sand, it is considered one of the best beaches in Broome, for good reason!
The best thing about Cable Beach is that you can visit any time of the day – from sunrise walks, chilling on the beach in the afternoon to sunset camel rides (more on that soon).
Cable Beach is the only surf lifesaving patrolled beach in Broome (during the tourist season). Umbrellas and beach chairs are available to hire directly on the beach.
If you head to the area in front of Sunset Bar & Grill at sunset, you will see a convoy of 4WD vehicles making their way onto the beach “north of the rocks”. If you don’t have a 4WD, you can walk down to the beach easily.
Watching the sunset into the Indian Ocean from your spot on the beach whilst watching camel tours pass by is one of the most iconic attractions in Broome!
Hop on a Pearl Farm Tour
Broome was founded on the back of the pearling industry back in the 1880s. Luggers (unique boats used for pearling) were prolific in the waters of Roebuck Bay. As the centre of the pearling industry in Australia, many divers from across Asia including Malaysia and Japan would come to Broome to undertake deep-sea dives in search of pearls.
Broome’s Chinatown is a direct influence of the several Asian cultures that are part of Broome’s rich multicultural history as a pearling town.
Back to the present day, Broome still serves for modern-day pearl farming. To learn more about the rich history of Broome and get unique insights into the process of pearl farming as we know it today, jump on a Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour.
On these tours you visit the pearl showroom, learning about the process of harvesting before creating the jewellery. Following this, you’ll take a boat ride on the turquoise waters of Willie Creek, viewing live oysters in their natural environment.
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is another pearl farm that offers tours. Located 2.5 hours drive north of Broome up Cape Leveque, this is a great option for visitors already exploring the Dampier Peninsula.
Go on a Whale Watching Adventure or Seek Out Snubfin Dolphins
Make sure to add a whale watching tour to your Broome sightseeing list!
The best way to catch sight of the humpback whales that journey through the ocean surrounding Broome is on a a whale-watching cruise. Whale sightings are usually guaranteed in July and August.
When I went out on this tour with Broome Whale Watching in August, we were delighted by seeing multiple breaching whales, as well as a calf and its mother.
Did you know that Broome is the only place in the country where you can see the Australian snubfin dolphin?
These cute creatures can only be described as “like a dolphin that’s run into a wall” (thanks to a friend for this description!).
Since I enjoyed the whale watching tour so much, I went on a daytime snubfin dolphin eco cruise with Broome Whale Watching again. We spotted not only snubfin dolphins but also manta rays, sea snakes, and a turtle in Roebuck Bay. Tours include transport from your accommodation as well as morning or afternoon tea on board.
These tours are popular, so I recommend booking in advance!
Catch a Movie at the World’s Oldest Outdoor Cinema
Sun Pictures in Broome is the world’s oldest picture gardens, celebrating 100 years of operations in 2016. Located on the main street in Chinatown, this iconic outdoor cinema is a must-visit in Broome.
The cinemas are open every night with two nightly showings. Sun Pictures offers a unique experience to watch an outdoor movie from their iconic deck chairs whilst bats (and the occasional aeroplane) fly over the sky above you.
The cinema has retained its rustic appearance and pays homage to the history of the site with a small display in the front of the cinema. You can pop into the venue for free in the daytime to check out the displays, or come back at night for a movie viewing like no other.
Marvel at the Staircase to the Moon
Another one-of-a-kind natural phenomenon that occurs along the Kimberley Coast is the Staircase to the Moon, created when the full moon rising creates a shimmering path of light on the exposed salt flats of Roebuck Bay,
Whilst popular spots to view the shimmering staircase of light are the Mangrove Hotel or Town Beach, I share my favourite secret spot in my guide here.
During Staircase to the Moon, a special additional occurrence of the Town Beach markets is held. More information and the Staircase to the Moon dates can be found here.
Explore the Dampier Peninsula and James Price Point
One of my favourite things to do near Broome is to take a day trip up to Cape Leveque to James Price Point. James Price Point is a popular location along this undeveloped and picturesque stretch of coastline, most well know for its vast ochre cliffs.
Spend the day taking in the rich red sand and exploring the beaches. Note there are no facilities, and to make sure all can continue to enjoy this place for generations to come, please make sure to take home all rubbish with you.
As of 2020, the once treacherous Cape Leveque Road has now been sealed, making it more accessible for visitors. To access James Price Point you will need to drive on the unsealed Manari Rd.
I have done this drive in a 2WD SUV before, but due to the corrugations, an AWD or 4WD is recommended. (If you are hiring a car, make sure to check beforehand if you can take it on unsealed roads).
For an easy option to see some of the other natural wonders of Cape Leveque, join a 4WD Adventure Tour that departs from Broome.
This tour takes you to the best spots on the Dampier Peninsular, including Beagle Bay (with a stop at the iconic shell church), Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm and One Arm Point Aboriginal Community, with a visit to the Turtle Hachery & Wildlife Centre.
Get Up Close with Crocs at the Crocodile Park
One of the best Broome tourist attractions for kids is the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park. Open all year round, the crocodile park gives you the chance to get up close with crocodiles of all sizes.
The Crocodile Park is located outside of Broome town, just after the turn off to Cape Leveque. If you don’t have a car, you can book tickets to the Crocodile Park with transfers included.
Make sure not to miss the feeding session, where there is the chance to hold a baby crocodile. Whilst kids will love this, this unique attraction in Broome will be enjoyed by all ages.
Relax at Broome Town Beach
Town Beach, with its turquoise blue waters of Roebuck Bay, is a few minutes drive from the main hub of Broome’s Chinatown.
A large grassed area is great for picnics with the family or just relaxing. At the playground you’ll find a Water Park – perfect for kids to cool off in from Broome’s heat.
There is a café here which serves breakfast and lunch with views over to the bay.
This is also the site of the Thursday Night Markets featuring a range of food stalls and various market stalls. The Broome town beach markets are held every Thursday from June to September, with an additional night during the Staircase to the Moon.
Take a Bucket List Seaplane Flight to Horizontal Falls
Horizontal Falls are without a doubt one of the top things to do in Broome. This Broome attraction has been described by David Attenborough himself as “one of the world’s great natural wonders.”
Before seeing it for myself, I couldn’t comprehend what a horizontal waterfall would look like. This natural phenomenon is created by the massive tidal movements that create a waterfall-like effect that moves sideways through two cliffs.
It serves as a reminder of how powerful the tides can be, especially along the Kimberley coast which has the biggest tides in the southern hemisphere, up to 10 metres!
Visiting Horizontal Falls is a bucket list experience of a lifetime. There are several options for tours, but unfortunately in March 2024 the Government announced tours that allow visits to take a boat ride through the falls themselves will be phased out and stopped entirely by 2026.
So if you’re on the line about whether it’s worth taking this unique tour, now might be your last chance to do so!
Most tours include a ride on a seaplane to or from Broome. I went with this tour which includes a scenic seaplane flight, landing in the bay and having lunch on the moored pontoon in Talbot Bay, followed by a power boat ride through the falls themselves.
Other tours like this one offer a fly-over only of the falls (i.e. you don’t land in the bay or do the boat ride through the falls), but this is a more affordable option that still allows you to view the Horizontal Falls from the sky.
Whichever option you chose, I can say that it is worth every dollar! This incredible experience will stay with me for a lifetime.
Go Rockpool Hunting at Coconut Wells
Just outside of Broome awaits a rock pool paradise that is known as Coconut Wells. To find out how to access this interesting spot, make sure to read my detailed guide.
Admire the Vibrant Colours of Roebuck Bay
Another of my favourite places to visit in Broome is Roebuck Bay. Broome has become associated with its deep orange-hued sand and vibrant turquoise water of Roebuck Bay, with images gracing covers of travel magazines and tourist brochures.
The closest viewpoint to Broome is a bit hidden, but follow these instructions to find the spot shown in my images. This is called Simpson’s Beach and to access it you’ll need to head south from Broome, towards the Broome Port.
The closest address is 297 Port Dr, Minyirr. Take a left turn off Port Dr and you will see another road on your left that takes you to the beach parking.
This is the exact spot on Google Maps.
Shop Like a Local at the Courthouse Markets
The weekend Courthouse Markets are a popular attraction in Broome for locals and tourists alike. These markets get their name from their location in the the historic Courthouse Gardens.
The Broome Saturday Courthouse market is held every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm, with an additional Sunday Market during peak season from April to October. There are over 100 stalls, with a range of jewellery, photography, fashion, and other creative wares on display, as well as food and coffee vans.
The markets are always buzzing with a great atmosphere and are a must-see in Broome. Don’t forget to try a delicious mango frozen thingy!
Ride a Camel Along Cable Beach
The most iconic thing to do in Broome is to watch the sunset along Cable Beach… from the back of a camel! Several operators offer tours during the day and at sunset, options are linked below.
This is a popular activity in Broome, so make sure to book in advance (particularly for the sunset session).
Drink Local Ginger Beer at Matso’s Brewery
Did you even visit Broome unless you had a Matso’s Ginger Beer?! This iconic brewpub is an institution in Broome and takes out the title of the most remote brewery in Australia!
With live music on weekends and a fantastic beer list and tasty food options, this is one of the best places to eat in Broome. The best way to sample their interesting range of beers is to order a tasting paddle (try the Chilli Beer, if you dare!)
Visit the Streeter’s Jetty
Another sight to add to your Broome itinerary is the iconic Streeter’s Jetty. Located on Dampier Terrace, this jetty played an integral part in Broome’s pearling history as pearl luggers would visit it to unload their precious hauls of pearl shells.
The jetty has been repaired and restored over the years since it was first built in 1897, and is worth visiting while in Chinatown.
Make sure you check the tides before visiting otherwise there might be no water in the bay!
Learn about the History of Broome
The Historical Museum is a must-see in Broome for those wanting to discover more about Broome’s fascinating and rich multicultural history.
The collection is housed in some of Broome’s oldest buildings which are worth a visit in themselves. Walkthrough the former general store of the 1890s, learning the tales of residents’ past and the role Broome played in World War II.
It is also considered one of the best regional museums in Australia and is entirely run by volunteers 7 days a week, opening between 10 am and 1 pm (4pm on weekdays during dry season).
You can jump onto a guided tour that combines the Museum, Matso’s Brewery and the Crocodile Park for an all-in adventure day.
Another highly-rated tour option is a guided tour of Broome Town with a local guide who will take you around the main sights of Broome while sharing more about the town’s unique history.
Search for Flying Boat Wrecks at Low Tide
One of the most unusual things to do in Broome is to walk out to Roebuck Bay at low tide and seek out the World War II Catalina Flying Boat Wrecks.
Several wrecks have been preserved by the mud of Roebuck Bay over the century. These wrecks are heritage protected as it is very rare and unique to see such historically significant flying boats in such a condition.
Only accessible at low tides of less than 0.8m, it usually requires an early start to beat the incoming tide. Head to Town Beach and walk out onto the mudflats, allowing for at least an hour to walk out to the wrecks and an hour to return.
I wore reef shoes which I would recommend as your shoes will get muddy (and enclosed shoes are also recommended due to the coral and marine life you might see out on the walk).
You can check the tide lengths and times here.
Explore Entrance Point & the Broome Port Jetty
Another place to visit in Broome that is off the usual tourist radar is Entrance Point and the Broome Port Jetty.
Entrance Point is more popular with locals due to the boat launching ramps. This is a great fishing spot, and there are lots of unusual rock formations to explore (including Broome’s own Nature’s Window!). It’s also a great sunset spot if you want to escape the usual crowd that heads to Cable Beach.
Also nearby is the new Broome Port Jetty. You can’t walk along the jetty but there is a small platform near the start of the jetty which provides scenic views of Roebuck Bay. After exploring the area, head to the fishing club for a cold beer.
Admire Broome from the Skies with a Scenic Flight
One of the best ways to see Broome is from the air!
Book onto a 30 minute scenic helicopter flight which will fly over Willie Creek Pearl Farm and vivid Gantheaume Point before a low flyover Chinatown.
Check out the Local Art Galleries
Broome has some fantastic art galleries that are worth a visit.
In Chinatown, it’s hard not to spot the old building that houses the Short Street Gallery. Here you can view a comprehensive range of contemporary artists, with a focus on regional artists including Indigenous artists.
Near Matso’s you can drop into Black Stump Gallery by artist Emma Blyth. This gallery features artwork inspired by the Kimberley, featuring work from a wide range of Australian artists.
Explore Riddell Beach
One of my favourite beaches in Broome is Riddell Beach (also known as Reddell Beach). Riddell Beach is another hidden gem off the usual tourist radar.
Several times visiting here I’ve had the entire beach to myself. You’ll find this spot further down the coast past Gantheaume Point. Look out for the red cliffs that line the beach and the hermit crabs running around on the sand.
Wander Broome’s Chinatown
Head to the town centre and experience the multicultural influences whilst perusing the shops in Broome’s Chinatown. You’ll find Sun Pictures here, as well as many of the best restaurants and cafes in Broome.
Take a stroll along Dampier Terrace and visit some of the pearl showrooms from the likes of Linney and Willie Creek. On this street you’ll also come across Streeter’s Jetty and the Roebuck Bay Lookout.
Shortcut through Johnny Chi Lane onto Carnavon Street, where you’ll pass (arguably) the best coffee and brunch spot in town, Dragonfly Cafe.
Gin Tasting at Moontide Distillery
Opening in 2020, Moontide Distillery is the only distillery in Broome. I visited not long after the official opening to enjoy a tasting of the native botanical gins inspired by the Kimberley and the spirit of Broome.
Enjoy a guided tasting whilst learning of the process that goes into making the unique spirits, or sit outside with a gin & tonic water while nibbling on a cheese plate.
The distillery hours are seasonal, but are usually always open on weekends – check the latest visiting hours before you go!
Relax at Eco Beach
Eco Beach Resort is a unique spot I’d recommend visiting near Broome. The Eco Beach Wilderness Retreat is located 130 km from Broome. This unique glamping eco-retreat offers an infinity pool, a modern Australian restaurant, and a pristine beach.
I spent 2 nights here with my girlfriends in a family tent and loved every minute of it. We spent days lazing around the beach, trying to stand up paddleboard, exploring the rocky coastline, and drinking wine – my idea of heaven!
Broome Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit Broome
The best time to visit Broome is during the “dry season” – usually from April to November of each year. Outside of these times, Broome is extremely hot and humid, with tropical summer storms.
The Australian wintertime (June – August) is peak season in Broome, particularly over the July school holidays. The weather is arguably the best during this time, as people across Australia escape the dreary winter and head to the warm and sunny days that Broome delights in during this time.
As Broome is a small town, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance if visiting during this time.
How to Get To Broome
Broome is a remote town, an odd 2,200 kilometres from the capital city of Perth in Western Australia.
Flights are available from Perth to Broome with both Qantas and Virgin Australia, with a flight time of 2.5 hours. Seasonal direct flights are available from Sydney and Melbourne direct to Broome, otherwise, a transit stop through Perth is required.
A road trip from Perth to Broome is also possible, especially if you combine it with a trip to Exmouth.
How Long to Stay In Broome
I recommend spending at least three to four nights in Broome, even longer if you want to explore more of the Dampier Peninsula and Cape Leveque or visit Eco Beach Resort.
Broome is a laid back town, providing a good mix of adventuring and relaxing alike.
Getting Around Broome
There is limited public transport in Broome. The main options for getting around Broome are to hire a car or use the Broome Explorer bus to reach the main tourist spots.
Car hire is the most convenient way to get around Broome. Pick up your car from the car hire kiosk upon arrival at Broome Airport and you are ready to explore!
The Broome Explorer bus is the cheapest way to see Broome, with bus stops at the main hubs such as Town Beach, Chinatown and Cable Beach. For more information and ticket prices, see here.
Broome Accommodation
The two main areas to stay in Broome are Cable Beach and the other side of Broome towards Roebuck Bay, known as old Broome.
Both have a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and are close to restaurants and nightlife. For first time visitors, I would recommend staying near Cable Beach instead of old Broome.
Short-stay accommodation (Airbnb) is very limited in Broome due to council regulations, so you’ll find that hotels are the main type of accommodation in Broome.
Where to Stay in Cable Beach
- Mid-Range – Mantra Frangipani
This hotel offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom self-contained apartments. With two swimming pools and your own private outdoor shower, this is a great option within walking distance (20 minutes) of Cable Beach. - Best for Families – Seashells Broome
These fully self-contained apartments are less than 300 metres from Cable Beach. A great option for families, with a separate children’s paddling pool and play area. - Luxury – Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa
This award-winning property overlooks Cable Beach and features an adult-only pool, four restaurants and a day spa. It’s very popular, so you will need to book far in advance during peak season (May – October).
Where to Stay In Old Broome
- Budget – Bayside Holiday Apartments
Self-contained apartments opposite Roebuck Bay and only minutes away from Chinatown shopping and dining precinct. - Mid-Range – Moonlight Bay Suites
This 4 star hotel with self contained apartments has a large pool overlooking Roebuck Bay. Located opposite Matso’s Brewery – what more could you want! - Best for Families – Habitat Resort
A great option for families, Habitat Resort is your home away from home in Broome. Surrounded by luscious gardens, these 2 and 3 bedroom villas are fully self contained. The kids will love the outdoor pools, one of them even has a slide into the pool! - Luxury – Pinctada McAlpine House
5 minutes from Chinatown, McAlpine House is a historic property built in 1910 that was later transformed into luxurious lodge style accommodation. Plus a swimming pool to cool off in after a day of exploring Broome.
Browse all accommodation in Broome here.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up this extensive Broome sightseeing guide. With this list of things to do in Broome and places to see, your time in Broome will be action-packed!
Or maybe you spend it just lazing by the pool and at the beach getting into Broome time – I certainly won’t judge you!
I hope you enjoy exploring Broome as much as I do, and make the most of the incredible attractions Broome has to offer.
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