Broome is where fiery red cliffs meet aquamarine waters, where ancient dinosaur footprints lie just steps from a luxury beach resort, and where stories of pearling, culture, and the Dreamtime fill the air. This coastal town in Western Australia is far more than a stopover, it’s a destination rich in history, natural beauty, and adventure.
Planning a trip? Here are nine unforgettable things to do in Broome that will make your visit truly special.
Things to Do in Broome
1. Ride a Camel at Sunset on Cable Beach
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A visit to Broome isn’t complete without a camel ride along the iconic Cable Beach. Stretching over 22 km, this dazzling white-sand beach offers jaw-dropping sunsets. Hop on a camel just before the sun dips into the Indian Ocean and enjoy a peaceful, picture-perfect ride. Don’t forget your camera, this is Broome’s most Instagram-worthy moment.
Pro tip: At low tide, take a walk to spot ancient dinosaur footprints at the southern end of the beach near Gantheaume Point.
2. Discover Gantheaume Point & Dinosaur Tracks
Just a 10-minute drive from town, Gantheaume Point is a natural marvel with striking red cliffs and sweeping ocean views. During very low tides, you can see 130-million-year-old dinosaur footprints embedded in the reef rock. Even without the fossils, the area is perfect for photography and coastal walks.
3. Step Into Broome’s Multicultural Past in Chinatown
Broome’s heart beats in its historic Chinatown, a vibrant area rich with stories of Japanese pearl divers, Chinese merchants, and Indigenous heritage. Wander through the charming streets, visit local art galleries, and dive into the town’s pearling past at the Pearl Luggers Museum.
Don’t miss: Catch a movie at Sun Pictures, the world’s oldest outdoor cinema still in operation, open since 1916!
4. Witness the Staircase to the Moon
From March to October, a unique natural phenomenon known as the “Staircase to the Moon” occurs when the full moon rises over Roebuck Bay’s exposed mudflats, creating the illusion of a shimmering staircase ascending to the sky. It’s one of the most surreal sights you’ll ever see.
Best viewing spots: Town Beach and Mangrove Hotel.
5. Take an Indigenous Cultural Tour
Connect with Broome’s traditional custodians through immersive Aboriginal-led tours. Companies like Mabu Buru Tours offer bush food foraging, Dreamtime storytelling, and guided walks through Yawuru Country. These experiences are both enlightening and deeply respectful of local traditions.
6. Visit the Broome Bird Observatory
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If you’re a nature lover, the Broome Bird Observatory is a must. Situated on the shores of Roebuck Bay, this sanctuary is a hotspot for migratory shorebirds, some traveling from as far as Siberia! Join a guided tour, explore the wetlands, or stay overnight for a truly wild experience.
7. Explore the Coast by Boat or Kayak
Roebuck Bay and the surrounding coast are bursting with wildlife and adventure opportunities. Go kayaking, hop on a sunset cruise, or join a whale and dolphin watching tour. Marine encounters are common between July and September when humpback whales pass through.
8. Sip Local Brews & Stroll the Markets
After a day in the sun, cool off at Matso’s Brewery, known for its refreshing ginger beer and tropical-inspired flavours. For a more local vibe, head to the Broome Courthouse Markets (weekends) where you can browse handmade crafts, sample local eats, and enjoy live music under the trees.
9. Take a Scenic Flight Over the Kimberley
Want to see something truly spectacular? Take a scenic flight over the Horizontal Falls, Buccaneer Archipelago, or the striped domes of the Bungle Bungles. Whether it’s by plane or helicopter, the aerial views of the Kimberley wilderness will leave you speechless.
Suggested 3-Day Broome Itinerary
Day 1:
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Sunrise at Town Beach
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Explore Chinatown and Pearl Luggers Museum
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Sunset camel ride on Cable Beach
Day 2:
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Morning visit to Gantheaume Point
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Afternoon at the Broome Bird Observatory
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Evening film at Sun Pictures
Day 3:
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Aboriginal cultural tour
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Scenic flight or kayak adventure
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Sunset drinks at Matso’s or Courthouse Night Market
When to Visit Broome
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for sunny skies, calm seas, and outdoor adventures. For fewer crowds and dramatic wet season landscapes (including turtle nesting!), consider visiting November to April, just be prepared for heat and tropical storms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Broome
1. What is Broome best known for?
Broome is famous for its stunning Cable Beach, dramatic red rock cliffs, rich pearling history, and the natural phenomenon known as the Staircase to the Moon. It’s also a gateway to the wild and remote Kimberley region.
2. When is the best time to visit Broome?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October), when the weather is sunny and ideal for beach activities, tours, and outdoor exploration. The wet season (November to April) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists but comes with high humidity and occasional road closures due to rain.
3. How many days should I spend in Broome?
Three to five days is ideal to experience the best of Broome, sunset camel rides, Indigenous tours, coastal adventures, and time to unwind. If you plan to explore the Dampier Peninsula or take scenic flights over the Kimberley, consider staying longer.
4. Are there free things to do in Broome?
Yes! Some popular free activities include:
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Watching the sunset on Cable Beach
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Visiting Gantheaume Point to view dinosaur footprints (at low tide)
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Browsing the Courthouse Markets
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Enjoying the Staircase to the Moon (seasonal)
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Exploring Minyirr Park coastal trails
5. Can you swim at the beach in Broome?
Yes, but with caution. Swimming is safest during the dry season, when stingers (jellyfish) are not present. During the wet season, marine stingers such as box jellyfish may be in the water, so heed local safety signage and advice.
Wrap Up
From ancient landscapes to modern comforts, Broome offers a rare blend of beauty, culture, and soul-stirring experiences.
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