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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Broome

Further Questions relating to Broome Australia

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Other articles you may find helpful:

• The Best Broome Tours
• Broome Travel Guide
• Where To Stay in Broome

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