Keytours Vacations logo
Home / Western Australia / Broome

Broome Travel & Vacation Guide

Located in the stunning Kimberley region of Western Australia, Broome is a tropical oasis known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This coastal town boasts the iconic Cable Beach, where pristine white sands meet turquoise waters, offering unforgettable sunsets. Explore the fascinating history of the pearling industry, visit the colorful Chinatown, and marvel at the natural phenomenon of the Staircase to the Moon. With its unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure, Broome is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

Current Weather

84.09 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 84.09 °F / 84.09 °FFeels: 89.11 °F Humidity: 65%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Originally founded as a pearling port over 100 years ago, Broome today continues to produce the world’s finest pearls. The 22 kilometres of pristine white sand are called Cable Beach and has been rated one of the top beaches of the world. Not only sand and sea but also the natural phenomenon known as the Staircase to the Moon attract large numbers of visitors to this popular and unique tourist destination in Australia. Located just south of the equator, the town experiences a sub-tropical climate with warm sunny days and balmy nights. The dry seasons last from May to September and that's when most visitors take the chance to explore the city as well as the Kimberley region. While Broome has an interesting pearling history, Chinatown, in the heart of the city, continues to lure with its cosmopolitan character and pearl showrooms selling the best of the best to the public.

Useful information

Population:

14,660

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Emergency: 000

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open from Monday to Saturday 9am–5pm. Shops are open on Sundays at their own discretion.

Do & See

beach life

Beach Life

There are a number of beautiful beaches to be found in Broome. Get ready for a relaxing day at the sea and soak up the sun until it gets dark. The best beaches with an amazing feel are Cable, Redell and Town Beaches.

Inside the Sacred Heart church

Beagle Bay 'Mother of Pearl' Church

This church is a lovely piece of architecture and it is open to visitors. Inside you can find colourful window designs and an impressive altar. Stop by for a lunch break in the area and hear the church bells chime at noon.

Rusted away ship wrecks in the sand

Boat Wrecks

For everyone interested in war relics, in extremely low tides you can see the Dutch Flying Boat wrecks in Roebuck Bay. These airplanes were bombed by the Japanese in 1942. Start your walk across the mudflats from Town Beach about an hour before low tide and head southeast. The walk should take you about 30 minutes. Make sure to wear footwear to protect your feet from sharp shells and other sea creatures.

birb

Broome Bird Observatory

View some 310 species of migratory water birds on the shores of Roebuck Bay, considered to be one of the top sites in Australia. The 310 species include 50 species of shore birds.

family at a museum

Broome Historical Museum

Uncover the fascinating history of this region at the Broome Historical Museum. Continue to Bedford Park, on Hamersley Street, to see the Australian and Allied War Memorials, Dampier’s Chest and other plaques regarding Broome.

a family of three on camelback in front of the setting sun

Camel Train on the Beach

Riding in a caravan along the beach at sunset is probably the most iconic experiences you can get in Broome. There are several companies operating the tours many times a day, so you can meet these magnificent animals and get a lift from them whenever it's convenient for you.

Chinese lanterns

Chinatown

Chinatown in Broome is well worth a visit. In this historic hub of Broome you can visit pearl showrooms, art galleries, shops, and cafes, and eat a whole lot of delicious food.

Visitors at Sun Pictures Cinema, world's longest-running outdoor cinema

Chinatown’s Sun Pictures

At Chinatown’s Sun Pictures you can experience the world's oldest picture garden. Soak up the nostalgia sitting back in deck chairs at the world’s oldest operating open-air picture theatre and view the latest releases. While you no longer have to lift your feet as visitors did in the early days due to tidal flooding, a night at this rustic tin shack of a cinema is a delightful new experience for every cinephile. Tickets can be purchased when the doors open, about 30 mins before the first screening.

Dining

asian soup

Bali Hai Cafe

Located at the Bali Hai Resort in Cable Beach, this cafe and restaurant serves up tasty food with an Asian influence and fresh ingredients. Tom yum is a favourite among guests. The place also boasts beautifully designed interiors and gardens as well as a cool deck area for the best sunsets. Prices are reasonable

mushroom croquettes

Cable Beach House

The restaurant at Cable Beach House has a beautiful beachfront location. The menu features a vast choice of dishes with both French and global influences at reasonable prices.

bruschetta

Cichetti Club

Fine dining dishes are served at this restaurant located at the Cable Beach Resort. The cuisine is mainly Italian, with other Mediterranean influences such as Spanish tapas. All is paired with good wine and plates to share are available. The interiors are carefully decorated and vaguely inspired by Venetian baroque luxury.

vegable korma from India

Little Indian Restaurant

You like it spicy and exotic? Then try the dishes of the Little Indian Restaurant. You can choose from various curries and rice dishes for reasonable prices. Don't forget to order some of that great tea with your menu.

Pho Bo vietnamese Soup with beef on bamboo tray on wooden background

Mr Saigon

Mr Saigon serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine with heaps of fresh veggies and herbs. Located on Dampier Terrace in Chinatown, this fully licensed restaurant offers a variety of delicious, quality dishes. Be sure to try their sweet and refreshing ice coffee. Bookings accepted.

tapas

The Aarli

This colourful cafe also offers Modern Australian food with an Asian influence, perfect for a quick bite of pizza, steak, or tapas. Enjoy your dinner on their leafy patio.

Neapolitan pizza with spices, tomatoes and cheese

The Food Lab

The Food Lab is run by two Italian chefs who create authentic Italian cuisine. Enjoy freshly made pasta, woodfired pizza, and Italian desserts. Located on Dampier Terrace, this popular spot offers a true taste of Italy.

buddha bowl

The Green Mango Cafe

At the Green Mango Cafe, you can get a variety of burgers in refreshing creations or a big breakfast that will keep you going for the day. Try the lamb burgers and stay for some ice cream and coffee.

Cafes

woman drinking bubble tea

Bubble Cat

Bubble Cat in Paspaley Plaza is a real bubble tea specialist, offering bubble fruit tea, bubble milk tea and a variety of coffee drinks. Enjoy delicious waffles shaped like cat paw prints and customise your drink’s sweetness. A small menu with big flavours awaits.

middle eastern skewers

Cairo Cafe

This family-run business offers you a cosy atmosphere to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Delicious kebabs, burgers, and pizzas will satisfy your hunger and make you come back for more.

multicoloured smoothies

Chi Mayi Kitchen

When you get a little thirsty walking around Broome, pop into Chi Mayi Kitchen. Have a couple of excellent juices or one of the many ice-cold smoothies. There's always a cheerful crowd having breakfast and the food is on point.

coffee breakfast

Dragonfly Cafe

Dragonfly Cafe in Chinatown has great coffee and offers both breakfast and lunch. The chef pays great attention not only to the taste of the food, but also to the variation in texture and subtle flavours — just the stuff you need to up your brekkie staples. The place is fantastic, and therefore you might need to wait a bit. Don't be discouraged, it's worth the wait.

quinoa bowl

Good Cartel

This hip cafe is a favourite among locals because of excellent coffee and tasty food including well-presented bowls, sandwiches, and gorgeous eggs Benedict.

falafel plate

Land of Pharaohs

For crispy and creamy falafel and smokey kebabs head to this Middle-Eastern food stand located at the Paspaley Plaza shopping mall in Chinatown. Finish your meal with a cup of tea and honey baklava.

Bars & Nightlife

burger and beer

Broome RSL

Broome RSL is a beautiful little oasis in the middle of the town. Drinks are cold and very well priced. Order something to eat from their kitchen or grab a BBQ pack and get grilling yourself. Roast nights are a lot of fun, as are Bingo nights every Wednesday at 6pm.

live music

Divers Tavern

Live bands, fancy pub grub, sports on TV, and a wide selection of drinks are some of the highlights of the Divers Tavern.The food comes in generous servings and is very reasonably priced. Combining a bistro, sports bar and beach bar, this is the ideal starting point for a night out in Broome.

pouring beer

Matso's Broome Brewery

Matso's Brewery is the place for craft beer in Broome. The microbrewery offers locally produced variations and has a great selection to choose from. The do-it-yourself setting and the cosy atmosphere will enhance even more your beer experience.

glasses of wine in front of the sea

Sunset Bar & Grill

Visit Cable Beach for a long day of sunbathing and consider grabbing a beer at the luxurious Sunset Bar & Grill. Enjoy the last hours of light while sitting on its spacious terrace and sipping cold drinks.

wine & sunset

The Bay Club at the Mangrove Hotel

The Bay Club offers a stylish outdoor dining experience with views of Roebuck Bay. Enjoy live music, cocktails, and Kimberley’s finest produce. Relax in day beds, cabanas, or gather with friends. No booking needed; just walk in for lunch or dinner.

pouring alcohol

The Conti Bar & Bistro

This smart venue caters to the dressed-up part of town. Glamorous drinks and pumping music make this an awesome place to go out, have drinks, and a real good time. The bistro is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Shopping

girl shopping

Broome Boulevard Shopping Centre

At this mall you'll find an good choice of specialty shops, boutiques and international brands, plus a large supermarket. There are some cool eateries to take a break from shopping, and a convenient, wide car parking.

market stall

Broome Courthouse Markets

Make your way through an intriguing collection of local and island arts and crafts at the Courthouse Markets. Make sure you enjoy a tasty bite to eat at these markets. There are several food trucks serving food from various Asian cuisines.

Chinese lanterns

Chinatown

The historic heart of Chinatown remains a must-do for any visitor. With the stress-free retail atmosphere, it is easy to discover some of the finest Western Australian treasures. Exquisite Australian South Sea pearls and Argyle diamonds can be purchased at extremely good prices. Gem cutters and jewellery makers create stunning pieces.

pearls

Cygnet Bay Pearls Broome Showroom

Get an insight into the life of pearl farmers and divers in this stunning gallery. Here you can learn everything about the region's most popular pieces of jewellery and see some of the most expensive of its kind. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about Broome's pearl history. While you're there, consider booking a tour of the Cygnet Bay pearl farm.

organic cosmetic

Hidden Valley Handcrafts

This family-run craft shop opened its doors in 1995 and offers hand-made cosmetics, organic lotions, and the ideal opportunity to buy a souvenir. The plant-based products are made without additives and are gentle to all skin types.

books

Magabala Books

Impeccable service and great offers can be found in this bookshop. Whether you are looking for some travel literature or want to purchase a specific book, you'll find the right volume at Magabala Books. Grab the latest bestseller or a classic page-turner and unwind on the beach.

girls shopping

Paspaley Plaza

Located in the heart of Chinatown, Paspaley Plaza Shopping Centre offers you a great shopping experience and plenty of amenities. You'll find a free parking space and air conditioning. Its attractive boutiques make this mall a favourite by locals and tourists alike.

pearls

The Courthouse Collection Pearl Gallery

One of the biggest in the area, this gallery showcases a wide choice of precious pieces, from necklaces to earrings and amulets. A special place is reserved for the classic bright white pears, which are an important part of Broome's history. You can see what the gallery has to offer at Broome Courthouse Markets on Saturday and Sunday 8am–noon, at the Cable Beach Resort Gift Shop, Broome Airport Gift Shop and Seashells Resort Gift Shop.

Tourist Information

James Price Point , Broome, Australia

Best Time to Visit

Generally, Broome has two seasons: the dry one, from April/May to September, is the best to visit the area; the wet season is very hot and rainy. Most tourists visit between June and August, when, in addition to warm weather and clear skies, it's possible to admire the whales migrating off the Northern shore. To avoid most of the crowds, enjoy great swims and beach life, and admire luxurious vegetation right after the wet season, come in June. April and May are also beautiful months, but they're not suitable for swimming due to the presence of potentially dangerous jellyfish. September can still be enjoyable, but the weather starts to be quite hot.

open passport with entry stamps

Passport / Visa

Unless you are a New Zealand citizen granted visa exemption on arrival (in most cases), you will need to obtain a visa prior to visiting Australia. Citizens of all European Union countries, as well as Andorra, Norway, Iceland, San Marino, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, and Vatican City are eligible for an eVisitor visa, which can be applied for online. For citizens of the United States, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, South Korea and Malaysia, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) entry permit is available, which can be applied for online and grants holders the right to enter Australia an unlimited amount of times for stays of no longer than 3 months per visit. Citizens of all other world countries (with the exception of Somalia) are also able to apply for a visitor visa online. For more information, visit the official website of the Australian government's department of home affairs.

plane in the sky

Broome International Airport (BME)

Broome International Airport, an air travel hub of North Western Australia, is located 2 kilometres from the centre of town. There is no scheduled bus service from the airport, though hotels and resorts offer shuttle bus services. The cheapest transfer from the airport is to walk to Frederick Street and catch the Town Bus Service. Taxis are available just outside the terminal, and fares into town are affordable.

on a bus

Public transport

The town bus service, called Broome Explorer Bus, offers regular hourly services seven days a week 7:10am–7:10pm. The buses run between most accommodation and attractions around Broome including Chinatown and Cable Beach. Children under 16 years old ride free when accompanied by an adult. You can buy your ticket from the bus driver. The bus schedule changes seasonally.

yellow toy taxi

Taxi

Taxis are available at taxi ranks situated at the airport and outside Paspaley Plaza. You can also call and book a taxi from Broome Taxis (131 008) or Chinatown Taxis (+61 8 9192 3316)

Type I power plug

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Box jellyfish in the dark

Marine Stinger Safety

When swimming in Broome, pay attention to safety measures against two dangerous kinds of jellyfish: the Irukandji and the Box jellyfish. These jellyfish can cause severe health problems, and there have been lethal cases, although not in Broome. They are usually present when the water is warm, during the hot season and the nearby months, approximately from October to May. It is best to avoid swimming during this period. However, they can be found — more rarely — even during the rest of the year. The best way to protect oneself is to wear a wetsuit. Always read warning signs at the beach and ask lifeguards if in doubt.

applying a medical plaster

Pharmacy

24h medical service is available at Broome Hospital and by phone. In an emergency, dial 000.

Vacation Planner Banner