KIMBERLEY - BROOME &
THE DAMPIER PENINSULA
Broome, Western Australia's gateway to the Kimberley, transforms into one of the states most vibrant hubs during the winter and the north-west dry season (May - October). With daily direct flights from the eastern states, it's now easier than ever to reconnect with friends and family while escaping the chill and rain.
Having visited Broome several times, we were eager to give our first-time visitor friends a taste of the Kimberley's splendor over a long weekend in July.
Arriving at lunchtime, Broome's airport is conveniently located close to Broome central. Taxis in Broome are in demand and with no ride-share options (ie: Uber), I recommend booking your airport to accommodation transfer prior to arrival.
Depending on where you choose to stay - Broome Central or Cable Beach - there is plenty to see and do and the local Broome Explorer Bus is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around.
We chose to stay at the Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa making the most of our relaxing time in the sun, with walks along the beach, sunset drinks and of course the world-famous camel rides. There are plenty of great accommodation options in Broome; however, book in advance especially during school holiday's as it gets booked out very quickly.
Although Broome's heritage goes back thirty-thousand years with the First Nations people, European settlement began in the late 1880's when it became a prominent pearling port. The interactive Pearl Luggers Museum gives a fascinating insight into the history of the pearling industry. The museum showcases the equipment used by pearlers, details the life of a pearler and displays examples of items made from mother-of-pearl.
During the early 19th century, Broome was a hive of activity and had a vast multi-cultural population. Many Asian migrants settled in Broome, and this is reflected in the Japanese, Chinese and Muslim cemeteries. Aboriginals also worked on the pearling boats having been relocated from their homelands across the north-west region.
Greatly impacted by both World Wars and the bombing of Broome by the Japanese in 1942, the pearling industry was all but lost. However, the introduction of cultured south sea pearls (or Broome pearls) has rejuvenated the industry with many pearl farms located on the Dampier Peninsula.
A walk around the town and you will find yourself lost in the many pearl retail outlets such as: Willie Creek, Pasparley and Cygnet Bay Pearls.
Wander through Chinatown and past the world's oldest outdoor picture gardens - Sun Pictures. Stop at the Roey Hotel for lunch in the beer garden or ponder the local produce at the Broome Courthouse Markets (Sat & Sun 8am-1pm). Hop on a bike or walk the self-guided Jetty to Jetty heritage trail, have a round of golf at the Broome Golf Club and don't forget to stop in at one of the many art galleries showcasing art inspired by the region.
The Kimberley is known for its crocodiles, and the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park offers the perfect opportunity to see them up close. Daily feedings take place at 3pm, and if you're lucky, you might even get to hold a baby hatchling!
If you are lucky enough to find yourself in Broome when a full moon occurs, then you will be able to experience the Staircase to the Moon over Roebuck Bay. Afterwards, enjoy a great meal at any one of Broome's many fabulous restaurants such as: The Aarli, Matso's Brewery, the Mangrove Hotel or any one of the restaurants at Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa.
If you're still looking for an excuse to visit Broome, then get a group together and head to the Broome races. The Broome Cup is held every August and is a highlight on everyone's calendar.
DAMPIER PENINSULA
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If you have the opportunity to hire a car and visit the Dampier Peninsula, then it is well worth it. The red, red earth seeps into your bones and the natural beauty is second to none.
In 2023, Main Roads sealed the 200km road between Broome and Cape Leveque, making it much easier for visitors to explore. However, keep in mind that many side roads are 4WD only and there is little to no mobile reception.
We first visited Cape Leveque in 2016 which you can read about here. Since then, Kooljaman has closed; however, the church at Beagle Bay is still open to the public along with One Arm Point and the Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm.
Having hired a 4WD, this trip we drove from Broome to James Price Point (or Walmadany) along the Manari Road. Just 60km north of Broome, this part of the Dampier coastline is nicknamed 'Australia's Jurassic Park'. Over 21 different types of dinosaur tracks have been discovered around this area.
Returning along the same road, we stopped in at the Willie Creek Pearl Farm. Having done the Pearl Luggers tour the day before, it was striking to see the contrast and observe how pearling is done today.
Three nights felt too short to catch up with friends and showcase this magnificent part of Australia. However, I believe their brief experience will inspire them to return and explore more of the Kimberley. Find further blogs on the Kimberley Region here.
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