Nestled in the far northwest corner of Western Australia, Broome and the surrounding Kimberley region are often regarded as some of Australia’s most beautiful and untouched wilderness areas. Known for their remote charm, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural history, these destinations offer travelers an authentic and unspoiled slice of the Australian outback.

From Broome’s iconic Cable Beach to the dramatic gorges and vast, rugged wilderness of the Kimberley, this region is an adventurer’s paradise, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor experiences. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on golden beaches, exploring ancient rock formations, or learning about the region’s Aboriginal heritage, Broome and the Kimberley provide an unforgettable escape from the everyday.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes, rich history, and must-see attractions of Broome and the Kimberley.

Broome: The Gateway to the Kimberley

A Historical Coastal Town

Broome is the perfect base for exploring the Kimberley region, and it’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and unique blend of cultures. Originally a pearling town, Broome has grown into a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world. Its history as a pearling port plays an integral role in shaping the town’s character, and you can still see the echoes of Broome’s past in the architecture, museums, and stories of the people who built this remarkable place.

Must-See Attractions in Broome:

1. Cable Beach

Cable Beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches, renowned for its long stretch of golden sand and its stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean. This 22-kilometer beach is the perfect spot to unwind, take a camel ride, or just watch the sunset over the turquoise waters. You can also enjoy swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing in the sun.

• Camel Rides: One of the most iconic experiences in Broome is a camel ride along the beach at sunset. It’s a unique way to enjoy the view and experience Broome’s natural beauty.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: The beach is ideal for a refreshing swim during the warm months, although you should always be aware of potential stingers in the water during certain seasons.

2. Gantheaume Point

Located just a short drive from Cable Beach, Gantheaume Point is a dramatic and scenic spot that offers sweeping views over the Indian Ocean. It’s famous for its prehistoric dinosaur footprints that are visible at low tide. You can also explore the striking red sandstone cliffs and visit the historic Gantheaume Point Lighthouse, which has guided ships along the coast since the early 20th century.

• Dinosaur Footprints: The dinosaur footprints that are embedded in the rocks are over 130 million years old, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life in the region. The best time to view them is during low tide.

3. Broome Historical Museum

To learn more about the town’s fascinating history, including its role in the pearling industry and its cultural significance to the Indigenous people, visit the Broome Historical Museum. The museum houses a range of exhibits that highlight Broome’s role as a pearling hub and its unique multicultural heritage, featuring displays on the town’s early Chinese, Japanese, and Aboriginal communities.

4. Sun Pictures

Sun Pictures is the world’s oldest operating outdoor cinema. Opened in 1903, it still screens a variety of movies and is a fantastic way to spend an evening under the stars in Broome. The cinema’s relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere makes it a fun and memorable part of any visit.

The Kimberley: Untamed Wilderness

The Kimberley is a vast and rugged region that encompasses over 420,000 square kilometers of outback wilderness. It is home to some of Australia’s most remote and spectacular landscapes, including towering gorges, pristine beaches, and ancient rock art. The Kimberley is also one of the least developed areas in Australia, meaning that much of it remains untouched and pristine.

Whether you’re exploring Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park, cruising the Gorges of the Kimberley, or hiking through remote landscapes, the Kimberley region offers an abundance of natural wonders and experiences.

Must-See Destinations in the Kimberley:

1. Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park)

The Bungle Bungles are one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring natural attractions in the Kimberley. These beehive-shaped rock formations are made of sandstone and conglomerate, and their distinctive striped appearance is the result of millions of years of erosion. The Bungle Bungles are part of Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and they offer incredible hiking and photography opportunities.

• Best to visit: Explore the Purnululu region by foot or by air, with options for helicopter tours for spectacular aerial views of the formations. Cathedral Gorge and Piccaninny Creek are two must-see spots within the park.
• Hiking Trails: The region offers a number of scenic hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging treks through the unique landscape.

2. Horizontal Falls

One of the Kimberley’s most unique natural wonders, Horizontal Falls is a stunning phenomenon where tides rush through narrow gaps in the coastal cliffs, creating powerful waterfalls that flow sideways. The falls are often called the “eighth wonder of the world,” and they are a must-see for anyone visiting the Kimberley.

• How to experience it: The best way to see Horizontal Falls is on a scenic flight or a boat tour. You can also enjoy an adrenaline-pumping experience with a fast boat ride through the falls or a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view.

3. Gibb River Road

If you’re up for an adventure, the Gibb River Road is one of the Kimberley’s most famous 4WD routes. The road takes you through some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in the region, passing by ancient gorges, waterfalls, and spectacular wildlife.

• Notable stops: Popular stops along the Gibb River Road include Bell Gorge, Windjana Gorge, and Mitchell Falls, each offering unique scenery and opportunities to explore the Kimberley’s natural beauty.

4. Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek

Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek are two of the Kimberley’s most iconic landmarks. Windjana Gorge features towering cliffs and crystal-clear pools, while Tunnel Creek is a limestone cave system that takes you through the heart of the Gorge, revealing a fascinating underground world.

• Wildlife: The area is home to freshwater crocodiles, which can be spotted in the waters of Windjana Gorge. The caves of Tunnel Creek are filled with bats, making it a truly unique experience for nature lovers.

Indigenous Culture in the Kimberley

The Kimberley is deeply connected to the Aboriginal people who have lived in the region for over 50,000 years. The region is home to a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, storytelling, and art, much of which can be experienced through guided tours and cultural experiences.

• Aboriginal Rock Art: The Kimberley is renowned for its ancient rock art, including the famous Bradshaw Paintings found in remote caves. These artworks date back thousands of years and provide a glimpse into the ancient stories and spiritual beliefs of the region’s first people.
• Cultural Tours: Many tours are led by Indigenous guides, who share their deep knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and sacred sites.

Practical Tips for Exploring Broome and the Kimberley

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Broome and the Kimberley is during the dry season (May to October), when the weather is cooler and drier. The wet season (November to April) can bring extreme heat and tropical storms, making some remote areas inaccessible.
• Getting There: Broome is easily accessible by air from major Australian cities, with direct flights from Perth, Darwin, and other cities. The Kimberley region is vast, and much of it is best explored by 4WD, boat, or small aircraft.
• Packing Essentials: Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes for hiking, a camera for the spectacular landscapes, and plenty of water. In the Kimberley, conditions can be harsh, so preparation is key.

Conclusion

Broome and the Kimberley offer some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences. From the white sands and crystal-clear waters of Cable Beach to the rugged beauty of the Bungle Bungles and the ancient rock art of the region, these destinations will leave you awestruck and yearning to explore more. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Broome and the Kimberley provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty and rich heritage of Western Australia’s far north.