Welcome to Broome and Cable Beach

BROOME & CABLE BEACH

Broome & Cable Beach

Everywhere

Broome is an enormously popular seaside town that straddles a peninsula approximately 15 kilometres long. It’s renowned throughout the world for its incomparable coastline. White sands, red rocks and cobalt blue waters form the edge that joins the rugged Australian desert with the Indian Ocean.

The traditional land owners of the region are the Yawuru people whose connection to the land dates back 40,000 years. The first official discovery of the area was made by explorer William Dampier back in 1688. Dampier’s journals, which chronicled his travels, attracted the attention of those keen to capitalise on the rich source of pearl shells in the region. Nearly two hundred years after Dampier’s discoveries, pearling established itself as a real industry which prompted the founding of Broome in 1883. In 1889, Cable Beach was given its name because of the telegraph cable that runs between Broome and Java.

There are remaining relics of Broome’s mother of pearl boom-time that recount the colourful history of the town. Meanwhile, the cultural heritage of the Yawuru people can be traced back through the sharing of artwork, language and stories they retain today.

Nowadays Broome and Cable Beach serve as a vibrant travel destination for Australians and overseas travellers, alike. Whether you’re interested in adventurous or relaxing activities, you’ll find everything you need during your stay here. Aside from the beachside attractions and sights around town, there are numerous tours that will take you to the less accessible places of interest.

you look there are landscapes that showcase the vivid beauty of Broome, where the contrasts of the outback meet a spectacular ocean expanse. The famed Cable Beach is a 22 kilometre stretch of coast which offers the quintessential beach holiday.

Staircase to the Moon

Visitors to the Kimberley region are not only awed by the magnificent sunsets but the reflection of the moon on the water.

Huge gorges, stunning landscapes and vast expanses are all part of the experience in Broome. But the magic doesn’t end on terra firma. Between certain months of every year, you will see something very special – the Staircase to the Moon.

When the tides at Roebuck Bay are very low and the full moon rises, the reflection on the exposed mudflats give the very real illusion of a staircase to the moon. This wonderful delight occurs two to three days a month between March and October. Usually on one evening of the Staircase to the Moon, the Town Beach precinct plays host to an evening market, with live music and this creates excitement as the community and visitors gather to wait for the moon to rise.

For viewing times, visit www.visitbroome.com.au/discover/ facts-figures/staircase-to-the-moon

Things to See & Do

• W ith sunset camel treks, watersports and the intoxicating tropical climate, it’s no wonder Cable Beach has earned such a glowing reputation.

• Make sure you head down to Chinatown to connect with the rich heritage of Broome. Wander around this vibrant retail precinct that, after a recent revitalisation, offers more shade, wonderful public art and outdoor seating.

• Up for some entertainment? Then take advantage of the regular performances held at the Cable Beach amphitheatre.

• C heck out the many pearl traders in Broome and purchase some magnificent local pearls for yourself or someone special.

• G o on a 4x4 adventure through the Kimberley and witness the spectacular fauna and geography of this awe-inspiring region.

• Take the self-guided Jetty to Jetty self-guided heritage walk (download the app) from Streeter’s Jetty along the newly paved Conti Foreshore path as you listen to the app which provides a rich visual history with unique personal accounts from those living in Broome during the height of the pearling trade. This walk also features the new Roebuck Bay Lookout.

• G o on a tour and see the largest known population of the rare Australian Snubfin Dolphin right here in Roebuck Bay.

• Take a trip by boat or plane to the Buccaneer Archipelago and marvel at the Horizontal Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world.

• V isit Gantheaume Point near Broome to see ancient dinosaur footprints.

• Join a kayaking adventure to explore Broome’s turquoise waters on a stun n ing coast l ine, abundant marine life and cruisy padd ling make this an essent ial way to spend a morni ng or after noon in Broome. No exper ience is required.

• Occurring late August to September, the Shinju MatsuriFestival of the Pearl - should not be missed. The festival has a range of amazing events from film to gastronomy to live entertainment.

• Take in a yoga class at the Buddha Sanctuary which boasts a three-metre high crystal Buddha

• Town Beach is a fantastic space for events such as the Thursday Night markets. The kids will love cooling off at the water park and the playgrounds are perfect for a picnic. The new Town Beach Jetty is a great spot to throw a line in or capture amazing photos of Roebuck Bay.

• Streeter’s Jetty on Dampier Terrace, prior to the recent reconstruction, was an original Broome jetty used by the pearl luggers. This historically significant jetty is a favourite for tourists visiting the area, and remains an important reminder of Broome’s past.

This stunning region offers an array of holiday attractions and activities to suit every possible taste.

Broome’s Pearly Past

As a visitor to Broome, you would already be well aware that the backbone of the town’s economy stems from the richness of the pearling industry.

Pearling really came to the fore in 1861 when a new pearl oyster, Pinctada Maxima, was discovered off Nichol Bay. At the time, the world’s fashions which were dominated by the US and Europe were pearl mad. While jewellery was fashioned by this rare and magnificent sea find, an additional bonus was the mother of pearl.

The region subsequently became the most significant source of mother of pearl in the world and drove the pearling industry in the early 1900s. During the next century, many of the most important natural pearls ever discovered were fished from the pristine waters surrounding Broome. Today, Australia’s Pinctada Maxima beds are the world’s last remaining source of wild pearl shell used for pearl cultivation. At its peak, 80 Mile Beach and the Broome region supplied 75% of the world’s production of mother of pearl, with some 400 vessels exporting up to 2,000 tonnes per annum. During the time, 3,500 people were employed in the fishery, and the industry was crucial to the commerce and development of northern Australia.

In the 1950s, however, the plastic button was invented which replaced a practical need for the pearl. Virtually overnight, the pearling industry hit on hard times and luggers were left to rot up and down the coastline. It was within this landscape that innovation came into play. The culture of pearls would become the primary focus of a new Australian pearling industry.

Discover the ancient backstory to Broome’s beautiful pearls. Cygnet Bay tours Borrgoron Coast to Creek Tour operated by Terry Hunter (a 4th generation pearler and proud Bardi man), as well as Narlijia Cultural Tours operated by Bart Pigram (a proud Yawuru man) offer special historical tours. Cygnet Bay Pearls’ showroom is located at 23 Dampier Terrace.

Allure South Sea Pearls and Anastasia’s of Broome are both in Chinatown with a wonderful selection of pearls.

Willie Creek Pearls also offers stunning pearl jewellery for sale and has showrooms in Chinatown, Cable Beach and Willie Creek.

broome. dampier terrace chinatown cable beach club resort perth. rokeby road subiaco ALLURESOUTHSEAPEARLS.COM.AU

Experience The Beauty of Pearls

Willie Creek Pearls is a Western Australian family owned & operated business that celebrated 30 years of service excellence in 2019. They sustainably produce the best pearls in the world: Australian South Sea Cultured Pearls.

The Willie Creek Pearl Farm tour is a multi award-winning tour which allows you to see how passionate the team are about every part of the unique story of The Pearl of Western Australia, from shell to showroom. It is a ‘must do’ experience for everyone visiting Broome.

It’s a paradise in an isolated part of the world and a beautiful place to experience the wonders of pearling. The crystal-clear waters and mangrove lined banks of Willie Creek are home to all kinds of wildlife, from barramundi to brolgas and even a few saltwater crocs!

Willie Creek Pearls’ knowledgeable guides will reveal the intricate processes of today’s modern cultured pearling industry – from the seeding of an oyster to the harvesting and grading of a pearl, right through to the final stunning product on display in the showroom.

From the magnificent Kimberley landscape to the array of things to see and do, a day at Willie Creek Pearl Farm is one you’ll remember for years to come.

Transport to Willie Creek Pearl Farm is available by coach with bus pickup from your accommodation, self-drive or helicopter. Book your tour today!

Gantheaume Point

At Gantheaume Point near Broome, see the ancient dinosaur footprints which are 130 million years old.

At Gantheaume Point, a five minute drive from the centre of Broome, you can see dinosaur footprints in the rocky reef area when the tide is low. A plaster cast of the tracks has been embedded at the top of the cliff for anyone who visits at high tide or doesn’t want to walk on the reef.

As well as harbouring these unique dinosaur footprints, Gantheaume Point offers stunning coastal scenery. Here, the fiery red cliffs meet the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean in dramatic fashion.

Located on the northern side of Gantheaume Point is Anastasia’s Pool. This rock pool was modified by a former lighthouse keeper for his wife, Anastasia, who was crippled with arthritis. The warm temperatures of the Indian Ocean were said to offer her relief from her chronic condition. Anastasia’s Pool was damaged by a storm in 2014.

Horizontal Falls

The Horizontal Waterfalls is a natural feature of the breathtakingly beautiful Buccaneer Archipelago, which Sir David Attenborough proclaimed to be one of the greatest natural wonders in the world.

The falls are formed by the massive tides that rise at such a speed that large volumes of water are trapped between the vertical rock walls. When the tide turns the water is released again, causing the ‘waterfall’ effect. There are two gaps: the smaller is approximately 7.5m wide whilst the bigger gap is three times as wide and, at times, there can be a 4m high waterfall between the bays. For a memorable experience and to view the falls up close, take an exhilarating fast boat ride through the gorges.

The Buccaneer Archipelago is a collection of about 1,000 islands, and the coastline travelling north from Broome up to the Dampier Peninsula is beautiful. There are several operators offering scenic tours to this spectacular formation.

SOARCRUISE STAY

Australia’s most awarded adventure tour.

The only Horizontal Falls adventure where you can soar , cruise and stay

horizontalfallsadventures.com.au

It is well worth the journey by boat or plane to witness one of the most powerful and natural spectacles in the world.

History of Camels

A fascinating history underpins the popular camel safaris in Broome.

The first camel to ever be imported into Australia occurred in 1840, with another 24 arriving in 1860 to aid the Burke and Wills expedition. During the next fifty years, approximately 12,000 camels were imported from India and Palestine, the common breed being camelus dromedarius - the humped back camel. With a predisposition suited to harsh climates, camels were a perfect addition to the Australian labour market. In 1890, a large contingent was used for transport in the Western Australian goldfields. Ultimately, camels were replaced by motorised vehicles in the early 20th century. Today, the feral camel population is estimated at around 300,000.

It’s a well known fact that camels can live without water for several weeks, but they are also suited to the Australian outback because of the enormous array of plant species available here to eat. Camels can work for several decades and carry up to 600kg in weight.

Broome Camel Safaris is the oldest and most reputable camel tours in Broome. Operated by the “true camel lady”, call 0419 916 101 for bookings and enquiries.

4X4 Adventures

Gibb River Road is a 660 kilometre remote track that runs from Broome to Kununurra through the spectacular Kimberley. Closed during the wet season, you should always check road conditions before travelling along the Gibb River Road track. For more information, be sure to visit www.kimberleyaustralia.com

The Broome to Cape Leveque traverses 220 kilometres of road and is an easy drive. Cape Leveque, itself, is situated at the point of the Dampier Peninsula. Known for its beautiful white beaches with earth-red cliffs, Cape Leveque really is a gorgeous part of the world.

Please note that this road runs through Aboriginal land and if there are ‘no entry’ signs displayed then do not enter out of respect for the people that reside here. The Main Roads Travel alerts is a great resource for checking road closures and conditions travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au

An Aquatic Wonderland

WHALE WATCHING

The Kimberley is the mating ground for the world’s largest population of humpback whales, estimated at up to 48,000.

Every year a significant number of whales migrate home from summer feeding grounds in the frigid waters of the Antarctic to mate and give birth in The Kimberley’s warm, tropical waters. Once hunted to the brink of extinction for oil and baleen, with a mere 500 individuals left by the early 1960s, Western Australia’s humpbacks have staged a magnificent recovery.

The humpbacks’ calving grounds extend from Gourdon Bay, south of Broome, through to the Buccaneer Archipelago to Camden Sound, the ‘maternity ward’ for the humpbacks, with newborn calves frequently seen off Broome.

The Kimberley’s humpbacks delight tourists from July to September with spectacular displays of breaching, spyhopping, tail fluking and pectoral slapping.

SNUBFIN DOLPHINS

Snubfin dolphins are a rare breed of dolphin, endemic to northern Australia, 154 of which have been recorded in the past, right here in Broome’s Roebuck Bay. They look very different to other dolphins as they have a rounded forehead with no beak. Don’t miss experiencing these awe-inspiring creatures.

FISHING

Though game fishing in Broome is influenced largely by the tides, there’s great fishing to be had in this part of the world for both amateurs and enthusiasts, alike.

Broome offers both offshore and inshore fishing with reef, sport and creek fishing available. Some of the fish you can expect to catch in the area are:

Reef fishing - Snapper, Coral Trout, Red Emperor, Sea Perch, Trevally & Cod.

Sport fishing - Giant Trevally, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia & Sailfish.

Creek fishing - Mangrove Jack, Black Jewfish, Threadfin Salmon & Barramundi.

There’s plenty of great fishing spots in and around Broome so you’re bound to bring home a catch of the day. Willie Creek is a renowned fishing location in Broome as is Cable Beach. The Town Jetty is also a popular fishing spot and it’s recommended you get out to Dampier Creek. There’s no shortage of reputable fishing charters available in the area.

Absolute Ocean Charters offer Whale Watching Tours as well as Eco Sunset & Snubfin Dolphin Cruises. Full or half day fishing charters and exclusive, customised private charters are also available.

There is always something to see in the pristine waters around Broome. from whale watching; seeing the rare Snubfin dolphin; to a guided fishing charter; your adventure awaits.

BALI HAI SPA

Surrounded by tropical gardens, the Bali Hai Spa offers an exclusive range of health and beauty treatments unique as the Australian outback and exotic as the island of Bali.

Experience the delights of Broome with a Paradise Massage and for couples the Passion of Pearl treatment. Bali Hai Spa endeavours to provide every guest with a memorable experience, leaving them relaxed and rejuvenated.

T: 08 9191 3155

6 Murray Rd, Cable Beach spa@balihairesort.com www.balihairesort.com

Health, Beauty & Shopping

Holidays are all about getting back to you. In Broome, you’ll find the time and space to relax, unwind and recharge.

And what better way to recharge than a day of shopping. Broome offers a range of shopping options, from boutique shopping to perusing Chinatown to the comfort of Broome Boulevard Shopping Centre.

Renowned for its stunning south sea pearls, the region is flush with pearl shops. Make sure you check out Paspaley located on Short Street, and Cygnet Bay Pearls, Galwey Pearls, Willie Creek Pearls and Jewels of the Kimberley which are all located on Dampier Terrace.

After some shopping, it might be time to indulge in some pampering. Depending on what you’re seeking, Broome boasts an array of health and beauty specialists. For a blissful relaxation package, Bali Hai Resort and Spa in Cable Beach offers spa, massage, facials and other body treatments.

• Carry a comprehensive road map with you.

• Pack plenty of food and water for your trip.

• E nsure your vehicle is in top condition before travelling. 4WD vehicles are best for unsealed tracks.

• Have at least two spare tyres with you.

• Keep the RAC emergency number handy.

• C heck road conditions before departing.

• Seatbelts need to be worn at all times.

• Do not leave your vehicle if you break down or get lost.

• Steer clear of flooded bridges.

• Avoid driving at night as local fauna tends to wander onto the road at this time.

Calendar of Events

JANUARY

Australia Day Celebrations

FEBRUARY

Salt Water Music Festival

MARCH

Ocean Film Festival

Women’s Leadership Forum

Broome Pride Inc, Mardi Gras

MAY

National Fat Bike Championships

Gibb River Road Mountain Bike Challenge

Broome Fringe Festival

JUNE

Muddy Water Music & Art Festival (Derby)

Kullarri NAIDOC Festival

JULY

Broome Marathon

Whale Watching (July-Sept)

Saltwater Music Festiva

Chinatown Ladies Night

Broome Billfish Classic

Mowanjum Festival (Derby)

AUGUST

Beach Touch Footy

Cable Beach Triathlon

Broome Cup

A Taste of Broome

Corrugated Lines - A Festival of Words

Broome Rodeo

Shinju Matsuri - Broome’s Festival of the Pearl

OPERA UNDER THE STARS®

SEPTEMBER

Cygnet Bay Harvest Festival

Broome Rhythm & Ride Rodeo

Broome Marlin Cup

OCTOBER

CinefestOz Broome

NOVEMBER

Melbourne Cup special events across Broome venues

DECEMBER

Chinatown Christmas Trails

Christmas Lights Tram Tours

For the most up to date Calendar of Events and dates, go to www.visitbroome.com.au

Markets

The market is open each Saturday as well as on Sundays during the dry season. With around one hundred stall holders you can find fresh fruit and vegetables, indigenous arts and freshly prepared foods, all while being entertained by buskers and talented street performers. The Broome Courthouse Market is located on the corner of Hamersley and Frederick Streets and opens at 8am.

Markets are also held at the Town Beach Reserve which locals call the Staircase Markets. The Staircase Markets have varying opening hours and are subject to coincide with the full moon. When in full swing, these night markets are a great way to spend a relaxing evening in Broome.

Courthouse Market

Saturday all year round and Sunday in the dry season, 8am to 1pm. Located at the corner of Hamersley and Frederick Streets.

Staircase Markets

Night markets - full moon nights May to October. 4pm to 8pm – Town Beach Precinct

Thursday Night Market

Every Thursday night from June to September. 4pm to 8pm. Town Beach Precinct on Robinson Street. For more information on the markets, visit www.broomemarkets.com.au

If you love to fossick through markets and explore the local culture to get a feel for a place, then try the Broome Courthouse Market or the nightime Staircase Markets.

BATMAN GROUP

ROEBUCK BAY HOTEL