Once you have arrived it's time to kick back, slip into Broome Time and explore the many local attractions and cosmopolitan surprises Broome holds in store.
When deciding on where to go in Broome, there is plenty to see and do. Whether it is nature, culture, animals or history, there is plenty to occupy your day on any budget.
The town of Broome bustles with a variety of local attractions that promise to entertain and delight. Built in 1916, Sun Pictures has withstood the ravages of war, cyclones and king tides. It is the world’s oldest operating picture gardens and still screens the latest in cinema magic every night. One of the best regional museums in Australia, the BroomeHistoricalSocietyMuseum features a display on pearling and a large collection of photographs and files that piece together the fascinating history of Broome.
For a touch of local culture, learn of the unique role the sea and river systems of the Kimberley have played in the life of the local indigenous communities on a guided cultural walk and excursion through MinyirrPark, a natural coastal area covering both land and sea. Broome also hosts a number of museums, art galleries, events and community centre’s where you can explore and learn about local Indigenous customs, history and culture.
If its nature you are after and you like to unwind, then Broome is your ideal holiday. Stroll on the world famous 22 kilometres of pristine white sand that is CableBeach, and let the clear warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean refresh you. Or, relax on TownBeach and witness the spectacular “Staircase to the Moon”, a great place to soak up the atmosphere.
For the animal lovers, venture out to the Broome Bird Observatory, on the shores of RoebuckBay. This area is regarded as one of the best locations in Australia to view some of the 310 species of migratory wader birds. Or, if you’re into something with a little more bite, view some of the largest crocodiles in captivity and witness their true nature during crocodile feeding tours.
If its history you’re after, nothing gets much more ancient than the 130 million year old Dinosaur Footprints which can be seen at very low tides at Gantheaume Point. While your there, marvel at Anastasia’s Pool, this almost perfectly round pool was hand built by a former lighthouse keeper for his arthritic wife, Anastasia.
For history of another kind, on negative tides, located 1km offshore from Town Beach the Dutch Flying Boat wrecks are visible, remaining as evidence of the Japanese air raid on Broome during WWII in March 1942.
Other historic sights include the Japanese and Chinese cemeteries, the Australian and Allied War Memorials in BedfordPark coupled with Dampier’s Chest and several other plaques regarding Broome. Of course, you are sure not to miss the host of life size statues in Chinatown paying tribute to the pearling history of the early 1900’s.
With a variety of unique attractions to choose from, the only difficulty is deciding what to see or do next. For further information on activities, attractions and tide times, call the local, friendly staff at the Broome Visitor Centre on Freecall 1800 883 777.