aerial view of the horizontal falls near broome

Things To Do in Broome for First Timers 2024

Planning your first trip to Broome can feel overwhelming, with so many incredible sights and experiences to choose from. But don’t worry, you’re in the right place! As a seasoned travleler who fell in love with Broome’s rugged beauty and laid back vibe, I’ve put together this guide to help you uncover the best things to do in this coastal paradise.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sunset camel ride on Cable Beach, marvelling at dinosaur footprints, or exploring the fascinating history of the pearling industry, this list is tailored to make your first visit unforgettable. I’ll also share insider tips to ensure you don’t miss a thing – like the best times to visit popular spots and how to book experiences before they sell out.

By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident crafting the perfect itinerary for your Broome adventure, with a mix of must-see attractions and hidden places that most first-time visitors overlook. Let’s dive in and make your Broome experience one to remember!

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

Broome Scenic Helicopter Flight Summary

Tour Length: 30 minutes

Departs: Broome

Rating: 5⭐️

Dates: Various

Highlights:

  • Seeing the long stretch of white sand on Cable Beach
  • the rugged red Pindan Cliffs
  • Turquoise waters of Willie Creek
  • incredible photo opportunities
aerial view from broome helicopter scenic flight of red rocks and blue ocean

1. Cable Beach

  • Why it’s a must: World-famous for its 22 km of pristine white sand and stunning sunsets, Cable Beach offers iconic camel rides at dusk and opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation.
  • First-timer tip: Sunset camel rides are highly popular, so book in advance to secure your spot.
a long stretch of beach on cable beach in broome
Cable Beach Broome

2. Gantheaume Point

  • Why it’s a must: A picturesque rocky outcrop where visitors can spot dinosaur footprints at low tide and enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
  • First-timer tip: Check tide times to plan your visit for the best chance to see the footprints or book this Scenic and Prehistoric Boat Tour by Broome Hovercraft.
a large dinosaur footprint at Gantheaume Point broome
Dinosaur footprint at Gantheaume Point by Tourism Western Australia

3. Staircase to the Moon

  • Why it’s a must: A natural phenomenon occurring during full moons between March and October, where the moonlight reflects on tidal flats, creating the illusion of a staircase.
  • First-timer tip: Visit Town Beach for the best viewing and plan around the event dates.
the full moon over roebuck bay broome
Staircase to the moon by Tourism Western Australia

4. Horizontal Falls (via a Day Tour)

  • Why it’s a must: Described by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest wonders of the natural world,” the Horizontal Falls in the Kimberley region are a breathtaking natural phenomenon.
  • First-timer tip: Book a seaplane or helicopter tour departing from Broome for an unforgettable experience.

KAS Helicopters has a 5* rating with over 500 reviews – see pricing & availability direct with KAS Helicopters here.

aerial view of the green water of horizontal falls near broome on a scenic flight tour
KAS Helicopters scenic flight over Horizontal Falls

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures also received 5* ratings with over 500 reviews. Choose between the half-day tour from Broome and the full-day tour from Broome.

aerial view of the horizontal falls near broome
Horizontal Falls by Tourism Western Australia

5. Willie Creek Pearl Farm

  • Why it’s a must: A fantastic way to learn about Broome’s pearling history while enjoying scenic views of the turquoise creek.
  • First-timer tip: Combine a tour with a hands-on pearl appreciation session for an immersive experience.

You can find out more in my Willie Creek Farm Tour review or treat yourself to a Half-Day Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour with Helicopter Flight for a truly magical experience.

the stunning willie creek with rurquoise water and mangroves
Willie Creek as seen on the tour

6. Broome Historical Museum

  • Why it’s a must: Perfect for history enthusiasts, the museum offers insights into Broome’s pearling industry, multicultural history, and World War II significance.
  • First-timer tip: Allocate about an hour for a thorough visit. Entrance is A$12 per adult and free for children.
display at broome museum
The Sailmakers Exhibition displays the tools and techniques of a sailmaker in Broome in the early 1900s.

7. Matso’s Brewery

  • Why it’s a must: Known for its unique beers, such as mango or chili beer, Matso’s Brewery is a great spot to unwind and taste local flavors.
  • First-timer tip: Pair your drink with some food on their shaded terrace.

The tasting paddle comes with five beers, which you can choose. I decided on Mango Beer, Ginger Beer, Pearler’s Pale Ale, Chango (a mix between chilli and mango beer) and Angry Ranga (chilli ginger beer). My favourite was the Chango.

paddle of matso brewery beer tastings
Paddle of Matso Brewery beer tastings

8. Town Beach and the Broome Jetty

  • Why it’s a must: A relaxing spot to enjoy the ocean views, great for families with shaded areas and play facilities.
  • First-timer tip: Explore the nearby Pioneer Cemetery for a glimpse into Broome’s multicultural past.

Streeters Jetty was built around 1890 to service the pearl industry. Pearl luggers dropped off their shells to the sorting sheds, and a trolley rail line ran the length of the jetty for easy offloading.

Dampier Creek is surrounded by green mangroves and is still a great fishing, crabbing, and bird-watching spot. Bats also live in the mangroves, and you can watch them fly out to find food just after the sun sets.

The jetty is subject to great variations in the tide. If you want to see the crabs, head there in low tide, but if you’re going to see the emerald green water, then choose high tide. We visited at both times and recommend doing so if you have time – it was amazing to see all the crabs and the stunning water at high tide.

turquoise water from streeters jetty broome
Streeters Jetty at high tide

9. Sun Pictures Cinema

  • Why it’s a must: The world’s oldest operating outdoor cinema, offering a nostalgic experience with a variety of films under the stars.
  • First-timer tip: Arrive early to grab a good seat and enjoy the atmosphere.

Built in 1903 as an Asian store, the Yamasaki family loved theatre and used part of it as a Japanese playhouse where traditional Noh theatre was performed. It was bought by Ted Hunter, a pearler, in 1913, who turned it into a picture theatre that could seat 500 people. Sun Pictures opened in December 1916 and attracted people from all around.

the exterior of the sun pictures movie theatre
Sun Pictures cinema – The World’s Oldest Outdoor Picture Garden

10. Chinatown and the Courthouse Markets

  • Why it’s a must: Chinatown is the heart of Broome, filled with shops, galleries, and cafes, while the markets offer local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
  • First-timer tip: Visit the markets on Saturdays or Sundays for a lively local experience.

Johnny Chi Lane is a historical lane with storyboards along the walls. They describe and tell stories of when the first ships landed in Broome, through the history of pearling, WWII up to the present day.

Things To Do in Broome for First Timers 2024
Johnny Chi Lane

11. Roebuck Bay

  • Why it’s a must: A haven for birdwatching and photography, Roebuck Bay showcases vibrant red cliffs, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life.
  • First-timer tip: Time your visit during low tide to explore the tidal flats and mangroves.
view of roebuck bay from lookout in broome
View from Roebuck Bay Lookout

12. The Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park

  • Why it’s a must: Home to some of Australia’s largest crocodiles, this park offers thrilling feeding tours and a chance to see saltwater and freshwater crocodiles up close.
  • First-timer tip: Join a guided tour to learn about these fascinating reptiles.
a baby crocodile in a person's hand at Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park
Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park by Tourism Western Australia

13. Reddell Beach

  • Why it’s a must: Famous for its striking pindan cliffs and secluded atmosphere, Reddell Beach is a hidden gem for photographers and nature lovers.
  • First-timer tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting on the cliffs. It is only accessible by the unsealed Kavite Road, which runs from the port to Gantheaume Point Lighthouse.
red rocks on reddell beach broome
Reddell Beach

14. Cape Leveque (via Day Tour or Self-Drive)

  • Why it’s a must: Located on the Dampier Peninsula, Cape Leveque is a stunning destination with red cliffs, white sand beaches, and Indigenous cultural experiences.
  • First-timer tip: Join a tour to learn about the local communities or book a stay in the eco-resort for an overnight adventure.

On this Cygnet Bay Explorer tour, you fly over the Horizontal Falls and the Buccaneer Archipelago, then have morning tea and a swim at Kooljaman Cape Leveque. On your sea safari, explore the giant tides and enjoy a Pearl Discovery Tour in Cygnet Bay.

aerial view of coastline of Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm Dampier Peninsula
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, Dampier Peninsula by Tourism Western Australia

15. Jetty to Jetty Walk

  • Why it’s a must: This self-guided walking trail spans the historical jetty precincts, highlighting Broome’s multicultural heritage and pearling history through interpretive signage.
  • First-timer tip: Start at Town Beach for an easy stroll, and download the official trail guide for historical insights.
the exterior of broome old courthouse with seats and wooden decking
Broome Courthouse

16. Air Kimberley Scenic Flights

  • Why it’s a must: Experience the Kimberley region from above with breathtaking views of Broome’s coastline, the Horizontal Falls, and the Buccaneer Archipelago.
  • First-timer tip: Choose a flight with commentary to learn about the geography and history of the area.
view of islands from the buccaneer explorer scenic flight
Buccaneer Explorer by Tourism Western Australia

17. Chinese Community Cemetery

  • Why it’s a must: The Japanese and Chinese Cemetery is where you will find Obelisks marking the graves of over 900 Japanese pearlers and the final resting place of Broome’s Chinese Community.
  • First-timer tip: Visit alongside the Japanese Cemetery for a deeper understanding of Broome’s cultural heritage.
a plaque in Pioneer Cemetery overlooking Roebuck Bay
Pioneer Cemetary Roebuck Bay

18. Broome Whale Watching Tours

  • Why it’s a must: From July to September, join a whale-watching tour to see humpback whales as they migrate along the Kimberley coast.
  • First-timer tip: Morning tours often provide calmer seas for better viewing conditions.

You can read more about the one we did in our Broome Whale Watching Tour post.

humpback whale breaching on a whale watching broome cruise
Broome Whale Watching Tour

19. Fishing Charters in Broome

  • Why it’s a must: Broome offers excellent fishing opportunities, from barramundi to reef fishing, making it a haven for anglers of all skill levels.
  • First-timer tip: Book a half-day charter to experience Broome’s rich marine biodiversity with expert guides.
view of the indian ocean glistening in the sunlight from the catamaran ballena in broome wa
Chilling on the Ballena

20. Coconut Well

If you have a 4wd, check out this local’s secret, about half an hour north of Broome. To get there, take Broome Road, turn off onto Cape Leveque Road, then the first left (McGuigan Road) which becomes Lawrence Road, then turn left onto Denham Road.

First-timer tip: Visit during high tide for the best swimming conditions.

Why it’s a must: A tranquil lagoon surrounded by white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or a family picnic.

aerial view of turquoise lagoon with white sand and rock pools
Coconut Wells near Willie Creek by Willie Creek Pearls

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Broome

How many days should I spend in Broome?

Ideally, plan to spend at least 3 to 5 days in Broome to fully explore its top attractions, such as Cable Beach, Gantheaume Point, and the Broome Historical Museum. If you want to take day trips to places like Horizontal Falls or Cape Leveque, consider extending your stay to a week.

What is the best time to visit Broome?

The best time to visit Broome is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is sunny and mild. This period is also ideal for outdoor activities and witnessing natural phenomena like the Staircase to the Moon.

Do I need a 4WD to explore Broome?

While many attractions in Broome can be accessed with a standard vehicle, having a 4WD is highly recommended if you plan to visit more remote areas like Cape Leveque, Willie Creek, or Coconut Well. Always check road conditions before heading out.

Are Broome attractions family-friendly?

Yes, Broome offers many family-friendly attractions, including Town Beach, Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, and camel rides on Cable Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring the dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point.

Can I visit the Horizontal Falls from Broome?

Yes, Horizontal Falls can be visited as part of a day or overnight tour from Broome. These tours typically include a scenic flight and boat ride, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Where can I see the Staircase to the Moon?

The best spot to view the Staircase to the Moon is at Town Beach. This natural phenomenon occurs during full moons from March to October.

What’s the history behind Broome’s pearling industry?

Broome has a rich history as the heart of Australia’s pearling industry, which brought diverse cultures to the area, including Japanese, Chinese, and Malay workers. Visit the Broome Historical Museum or the Japanese Cemetery to learn more.

Further Questions relating to Broome Australia

I hope you found this post on Broome helpful. If you have any questions, please join our Facebook Group where you can ask our community.

Other articles you may find helpful:

Join The Western Australia Expert Facebook Group