Broome’s Cable Beach, with 22 kilometres of white sand, kissed by warm, crystal waters, is justifiably world famous and the ideal place to watch the sunset on a balmy, tropical night.
From fiery red ochre cliffs contrasting with bright turquoise waters to pearl diving sagas and dinosaur footprints – the history of Broome is as captivating as the scenery.
Situated in the state’s far north, a two and a half hour flight from Perth, it’s an oasis of colour, culture and eclectic characters.
Broome’s colourful lifestyle, chilled out vibe and vibrant landscape has made it a mecca for artists, writers and musicians.
The town’s multicultural mix was shaped by a romantic pearling history when Japanese, Filipino and Malay pearl divers arrived in droves seeking their fortune.
Today, thanks to Broome’s unpolluted waters, South Sea pearls are among the most coveted in the world. Witness first-hand how Broome pearls are cultured at a local pearl farm.
Pearl showrooms line the streets of Chinatown - splash out on a pearl (or two!) as the ultimate memento of your trip. This is also where you’ll find art galleries, shops and cafes – the perfect place for some retail therapy.
One of Broome’s natural treasures is the Staircase to the Moon. For three days after the full moon from March to October, reflections stretch out across shiny mudflats creating the beautiful illusion of a long silver staircase.
Another interesting natural attraction is Gantheaume Point, where you can see dinosaur footprints believed to be more than 130 million years old.
Broome Accommodation
Accommodation-wise, there are plenty of plush hotels, up-market resorts and eco retreats to choose from and, for the budget traveller, there’s a good selection of hostels. Book ahead in winter!
Accommodation options include (but are not limited to) the following valued Kununurra Visitor Centre members:
- Asrama Bed & Breakfast - with views of Roebuck Bay, is a Balinese style house set in luxuriant gardens which surround the pool and spa. 2 rooms are available with separate outdoor kitchen and BBQ cabana. An outdoor lounge and dining area complete this beautiful base for your Broome holiday. Address: 65 Demco Drive, Broome Phone: 08 9192 5513 Fax: 08 9192 5513
- Broome Beach Resort
- Ocean Lodge
- Willie Creek Pearls
Broome attractions
Broome attractions are many and varied and include such places as Anastasia’s Pool, Bedford Memorial Park, Buccaneer Rock, Chinatown, The Broome Courthouse, the historic Japanese Cemetery, Roebuck Bay as well as nearby Cape Leveque and One Arm Point.
As well as the above, local photographer, Yane Sotiroski captures the spectacular scenery and has his works on display at his gallery. Yane’s photographic prints are in great demand for adorning the walls of prestigious residences and corporate offices around the world. His passion for capturing the Kimberley in all its splendour is possible because of his remarkable patience – waiting for the idyllic moment and the perfect nuance of light to create the image that is an absolute work of art. Address: Shop 15, Johnny Chi Lane, Broome. Phone: 08 9192 2442.
For an insight into the pearling industry, ensure you call into Willie Creek Pearl Farm. Located 38 kilometres north of Broome, Willie Creek Pearl Farm is the only pearl farm in the Kimberley offering tours to the public. Visitors can learn first-hand about the pearling industry in Western Australia and how South Sea Pearls are grown. Learn how pearl technicians seed an oyster to produce a pearl and view a live demonstration of this remarkable operation. Address: 2 Challenor Drive, Broome. Phone: 08 9192 0000.