Things To Do in Broome

Visitors touring Australia frequently bypass Western Australia, with even fewer venturing into the Kimberley area where Broome is situated.

Broome is positioned in an isolated location with few nearby towns. Directly to the east, a three-hour journey away, is Derby, while Port Hedland is six hours to the south.

The town of Broome provides an array of cultural encounters and scenic wonders.

It’s a picturesque spot to visit, journeying across Australia or seeking a distinctive location to bask in the winter sunshine.

Here are some premier activities to partake in: Broome

Broome boasts many activities, and several trips might be necessary to indulge in them all.

Broome presents various outdoor pursuits, from observing the Staircase to the Moon during high tide, admiring the vistas of Roebuck Bay to tracing dinosaur tracks.

Tourists can wander through the town and frequent attractions like the Sun Pictures Cinema, art exhibits, craft breweries, and museums highlighting the distinctive aspects of Western Australia.

Here are the paramount activities to consider in Broome to guide you in your choices.

Visit Chinatown

Broome boasts a deep-rooted history that is discoverable when wandering through Chinatown. The town’s fame grew because of its status as a notable hub for pearling.

In the initial phases of the industry, many Asian migrants came to Broome to serve on the pearling vessels. Due to this, the town has preserved its varied community and named this region ‘Chinatown.’

Journey into a realm of amazement beyond Town Beach, where numerous pearling stores, Indigenous art exhibitions, delightful coffee shops, and enticing eateries beckon. Delve into the captivating architecture that stands as proof of its distinct character.

It’s a favoured destination in Broome, and visitors and residents alike appreciate it.

See the stunning Staircase to the Moon

The Staircase to the Moon is a natural marvel that transpires during a full moon on particular calendar dates. The rising Moon crafts a stair-like illusion over the sea, forming a mesmerizing display.

Throughout the Staircase to the Moon occurrence, market stalls were set up at Town Beach for the initial two days. Attendees can relish local goods, performances, souvenirs, and sumptuous meals representing varied cuisines.

The Staircase to the Moon will leave you in awe if you are in Broome during the correct period.

Art galleries featuring Aboriginal art

The Kimberley Area in Western Australia boasts a rich Aboriginal legacy, leading to many art galleries in Broome.

These galleries exhibit a range of Aboriginal art pieces from neighbouring and remote communities, underscoring prime works from Central Australia and the country’s southern territories.

Several galleries do not charge entry fees, and the art pieces are up for sale.

For fans of art, Broome’s art galleries are an essential visit.

Visit the peaceful Japanese Cemetery

Visiting the Japanese Cemetery is a peaceful, tranquil experience for those who travel to Broome. This cemetery serves as a memorial to all of the Japanese sailors who perished in the area while working on pearling luggers. One can observe graves from as far back as 1906, with many of them featuring inscriptions in English and Japanese.

This cemetery is also home to some fascinating sculptures , providing a unique insight into the history of this area.

Enjoy movies at Sun Pictures

Sun Pictures is the world’s oldest operational open-air cinema, and it boasts the unique feature of presenting multiple films each night, making it a singular place to explore.

The inside is adorned with distinctive decorations and keepsakes, so even without catching a movie, dropping by for a short time is worthwhile.

Sun Pictures stands out as a top attraction in Broome for couples wanting a tranquil evening out during their journey.

Check out the Broome Historical Museum

The Broome Historical Museum offers an exhaustive overview of the town’s past.

The displays within the facility delve into Aboriginal history, the inception of this remote town via pearling, and the prospective trajectory of the pearling sector in North Western Australia.

It is an advised venue for individuals keen on understanding this remarkable town’s historical narrative and origins.

Check out Matson's Brewery for a unique taste

Head to Matso’s near Town Beach to savour local Broome brews and cuisine from the region.

You can taste flavoured brews if you’re in the mood for experimentation. They’re offered in whole or half-pint sizes, and you can explore a variety of tastes, including ginger, lemon, or even chilli.

See whales

Between June and September, vast numbers of humpback whales travel from Antarctica to the waters of the Indian Ocean near Broome for their breeding rituals.

During the whale season in Broome, it’s common to spot these humpback whales as they linger in the region to mate and nurture their calves.

Should you be in Broome during this period, embarking on a whale-watching expedition is highly advised.

Activities at Cable Beach

Situated on the fringes of the Indian Ocean, Cable Beach is a renowned coastal spot boasting amenities like bars, eateries, and lodging facilities.

It holds the reputation of being the most celebrated among Broome’s beaches.

The shoreline spans 22km, initiating from Gantheaume Point and culminating towards the town.

Cable Beach Sunsets

Globally acknowledged, the sunsets at Cable Beach are famed for their breathtaking views as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean from a tropical shore.

Witness a mesmerizing sunset while sipping your chosen Western Australian brew at the beach. Or, if you possess a 4WD vehicle, navigate beyond the boulders to discover your private patch on the sand for an exclusive sunset panorama.

The beach sunsets are a sought-after Broome attraction that many cherish.

The activity of stand-up paddleboarding

Multiple vendors near Cable Beach offer SUP rentals, providing an opportunity to experience the calm and clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
Engaging in stand-up paddleboarding is fun and rewarding in Broome, particularly for those trying it for the first time.

Visit the Willie Creek Pearl Farm

Situated a short drive from Broome, the Willie Creek Pearl Farm offers tours illuminating the locale’s intricate pearl farming practices.

Beyond gaining insights into the pearl business, guests can engage in activities like taking a serene creek cruise or embarking on a picturesque helicopter journey.

Cape Leveque is a location

Reaching Cape Leveque, previously a challenging 3-hour expedition on 4WD paths, has been made more accessible with a fully paved route, simplifying the commute from the town. Cape Leveque boasts tranquil beaches and options for wild camping, presenting itself as a prime spot for those desiring a less-travelled adventure. Consider reserving a guided expedition to traverse the expansive wilds of Cape Leveque and engage with the indigenous Aboriginal communities for an all-encompassing Broome tour experience.

The Gibb River Road is famous

Situated at the opposite extremity of Derby, the Gibb River Road is a magnificent spectacle and is counted among the most breathtaking sites in both Broome and Australia. The Kimberley area proudly displays its splendour through majestic gorges, alluring waterfalls, and adventurous 4WD paths. From Broome, reaching Windjana Gorge is straightforward, and it’s renowned as one of the prime spots in the nation to spot freshwater crocodiles. Tunnel Creek comprises an intricate system of subaqueous caverns open for exploration, highlighting Aboriginal paintings and distinctive fauna. One can return to Broome from these notable locations by joining the main highway. For those venturing westward, there are more noteworthy sites along the Gibb River Road, like Bell Gorge, Galvan’s Gorge, and El Questro Park. The journey on the Gibb River Road wraps up near the Northern Territory boundary, offering a moment to unwind in an edgeless pool overlooking Lake Argyle, Australia’s second-largest reservoir.>

Horizontal falls can be found

This is a must-visit site for those keen on witnessing the splendour of the coastal Kimberley region, though it might not align with travellers on a restricted budget.

The Horizontal Falls represents a natural marvel where two adjacent gorges create a waterfall impression as water flows between them at high tide.

Day excursions to the Horizontal Falls present a distinct chance to delve into the magnificent Kimberley region of Western Australia, where the vivid red rock terrains blend with the pristine blue waters. Seaplanes and boats serve as transportation modes, allowing visitors to experience the magical allure of this place deeply.

Gantheaume Point & Roebuck Bay

Gantheaume Point is a favoured spot for cliff diving, jutting out into the Indian Ocean at a height of roughly eight meters. Nearby, ancient dinosaur tracks can also be discovered.

Adjacent to this peninsula is Riddell Beach, which offers a splendid panorama of Roebuck Bay, among the most scenic locales close to Broome.

Roebuck Bay lies south of Broome’s town centre and is a thriving wetland home to many local birds, wildlife, and distinct red rock structures.