Top 10 things to do in Broome

By Linette Lin and Karen Tay

This laidback yet charming outback town has tropical temperatures making it the perfect winter destination. A fusion of peacefulness, intriguing history and vivid Indigenous culture, Broome also offers rugged natural beauty, from stunning turquoise water to vast white beaches and the spectacular Kimberley. Here are the top 10 things to do in Broome:

1. Walk or ride along Cable Beach

Take a walk or ride on a camel along the pristine Cable Beach at dusk as a blazing sunset unfolds before your eyes. As the sun sinks into the ocean, the sky lights up in powerful red and orange, matching the ochres of the region. Or lay a picnic cloth and enjoy the sun setting on the horizon. This early evening experience will stay with you long after the sun has gone down, and will be something you’ll never forget.

2. Go on a pearling farm tour

Hop on one of the local tours to discover what this amazing place has to offer. Learn more about the pearl industry and modern cultured pearl farming with the experts at Willie Creek Pearl Farm.

3. Staircase to the Moon

Located close to town is the Staircase to the Moon – occurring at Roebuck Bay between March and October, this natural phenomenon is caused by the rising of a full moon reflecting on the exposed mudflats at extremely low tide, creating an optical illusion of a staircase reaching up to the moon.

4. Hunt for dinosaur footprints

A 10-minute drive from Broome, set against a red rock cliff overlooking the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Gantheaume Point has interpretive signs that describe its history, including dinosaur footprints preserved in reef rock that can be seen at low tide. It will truly be a unique experience to see these reminders of Broome’s prehistoric past right in front of you.

5. Take a glide

Take in some of Broome’s amazing sights with a hovercraft as it can easily reach areas such as tidal flats that other craft cannot because the hovercraft rides on a cushion of air. View the magnificent sunset of Roebuck Bay while admiring pelicans, egrets, osprey and sea eagles pass by. Take the opportunity to walk down the sandy sea floor and spot starfish as well as other little sea creatures (and even a sea turtle if you are lucky) just right at the bottom of your feet!

6. Explore rock pools

Bring the kids and explore the many rock pools exposed by Broome’s legendary low tides. It’s the perfect opportunity to find out more about the sea life which populates these mini eco-systems.

7. Happy Hour with Matso’s Brewery

Matso's Store started life as the Union Bank of Australia Ltd in 1910 and was converted into a cafe, micro-brewery and art gallery in 1997. Must-try drinks would definitely include their famous Ginger Beer and Mango Beer. If you would like to tease your palate, give their ice-hot chilli beer a shot!

8. Visit Broome’s Courthouse Markets

Join the locals on the weekend from April to October and shop for crafts, jewellery and fresh produce or just listen to infectious live music. Browse the stalls offerings fresh fruits and vegetables, fashion, handmade jewellery, and local art and crafts. If you would like to grab a bite, check out the food trucks and stalls ranging from local to international delights.

9. Watch a movie at the world’s oldest outdoor cinema

Step back in time when you visit the Sun Pictures Cinema. The open-air cinema was constructed in 1903 on Carnarvan Street, in the Asian quarter known as Chinatown. Take a seat on an old deck chair while enjoying your movie. Old-school posters cover the walls and almost century-old movie equipment is still displayed here. You might spot a plane halfway through the movie, but that’s really all part of the experience.

10. Get to know the Indigenous people

The history of Broome and the Kimberley region dates long before the arrival of Europeans and hopeful pearl divers. The Yawuru people have inhabited the region for thousands of years and are closely connected to the land. Learn about the North West's Indigenous people through their art, food, customs, and traditions with a native indigenous guide.