Australian Outback Travel Guide

Broome
The Kimberley

Lustrous south sea pearls and white sandy beaches are what Broome is known for. Broome grew up around a pearling industry which began in the 1800's and enticed a multi-cultural group of people to set up home here from as far away as Europe, China and Malaysia.

Today tourism has well and truly taken the place of the pearling industry, but it's this heritage that makes Broome an interesting destination. These days, people come to have a relaxing break at one of the beach resorts, or as the starting point to venture further into The Kimberley. Located at the base of the Dampier Peninsula, Broome's beaches, and in particular cable beach with its 22kms of beautiful fine white sand are a definite drawcard.

Broome Attractions

Chinatown

The Chinese were one of many groups who came to Broome in search of their fortunes. The galleries, fine pearl showrooms and restaurants may have overtaken the pearl sheds and saloons, but Chinatown is still a bustling hub.

During the Dry season there is a market in Chinatown every Sunday.

Broome Pearls

Whether you want to learn more about how pearls are cultivated or you plan to add a pearl to your treasure chest, Broome has both on offer. For those wanting to learn, Willie Creek Pearl Farm (35kms north of Broome) has tours tours from Broome, or if you have a 4WD you can make your own way there. Down at Pearl Luggers in Chinatown you can visit luggers and learn about the pearl divers of the past.

For those more interested in purchasing pearls or pearl jewellery, Broome has an abundant supply of shops and showrooms ready to entice you.

Broome Pearling History

Camel Rides on Cable Beach

One of the most recognisable images of Broome has people atop camels riding slowly down the beach at sunset. Well you can do this too. There are a tours that offer this experience from Cable Beach.

Fishing & Boating

Broome is a great spot for the fishing enthusiast. You can hire boats, or go out on a fishing charter trip to the reefs. Tuna, mackerel, red emperor, snapper and trevally are just some of the fish off the coast of Broome, and if game fishing is your thing, join a crew on the hunt for the mighty Marlin and Sailfish.

Broome Bird Observatory

A bird-watchers delight, the Broome Bird Observatory offers the most significant shorebird site in Australia. Even if you aren't a bird lover, the rugged coastline and habitats at Roebuck Bay are great for exploring. Open year-round, you can do tours here and even stay in the caravan or camping sites.

Broome Markets

Every Saturday the Courthouse Markets are open for locals and visitors alike.

From March to October at the Town Beach there are markets where you can taste local delights on evenings when the staircase to the moon is on show. Check with the Broome visitor centre for days.

In the Dry season there are also markets in Chinatown.

Sun Pictures

What could be better on a warm night than a movie under the stars? The Sun Picture theatre is the world's oldest picture gardens and shows new and nostalgic movies. Just grab a deckchair and an ice-cream and you are all set. Check if the movies are running when you arrive in Broome.

Broome Visitor Centre

1 Hamersley Street
Broome
WA, 6725

Telephone: +61 8 9192 2222 or Toll Free: 1800 883 777

Broome Weather - Average Temperatures and Rainfall

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg. Max (°C)	33.3	32.9	33.9	34.3	31.6	29.1	28.8	30.3	31.7	32.9	33.6	33.8
Avg. Min (°C)	26.3	26.0	25.4	22.6	18.2	15.2	13.6	14.9	18.5	22.3	25.1	26.4
Avg. Rain (mm)	175.2	179.9	102.4	26.6	27.1	18.5	5.9	1.7	1.4	1.3	7.8	54.6
Avg. Rain Days	11.2	11.4	8.0	2.6	2.5	1.8	1.1	0.6	0.7	0.5	1.2	5.3