Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Like a paste jewel set in a tiara of natural splendours, Broome clings to a narrow strip of
red pindan on the Kimberley's far-western edge, at the base of the pristine Dampier Penin-
sula. Surrounded by the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean and the creeks, man-
groves and mudflats of Roebuck Bay, this Yawuru country is a good 2000km from the
nearest capital city.
Broome's cemeteries are a stark reminder of its pearling heritage, which claimed the
lives of many Japanese, Chinese, Malay and Aboriginal divers. Today, Broome's pearls
are still exported around the world, produced on modern sea farms.
Cable Beach, with its luxury resorts, hauls in the tourists during the Dry (April to Octo-
ber), with romantic notions of camels, surf and sunsets. Magnificent, sure, but there's a lot
more to Broome than postcards, and tourists are sometimes surprised when they scratch
the surface and find pindan just below.
Broome's centre is Chinatown, on the shores of Roebuck Bay, while Cable Beach and
its resorts are 6km west on the Indian Ocean. The airport stretches between the two; the
port and Gantheaume Point are 7km south.
The Dry's a great time to find casual work, in hospitality or out on the pearl farms. In
the Wet, it feels like you're swimming in a warm, moist glove, and while many places
close or restrict their hours, others offer amazingly good deals as prices plummet.
Each evening, the whole town pauses, collective drinks in mid-air, while the sun slips
slowly seawards.
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Sights & Activities
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Cable Beach Area
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Cable Beach
The state's most famous landmark offers turquoise waters and beautiful, white sand
curving away to the sunset. Clothing is optional north of the rocks, while south, walking
trails lead through the red dunes of
Minyirr Park
, a spiritual place for the Rubibi people.
Cable Beach is synonymous with camels, and an evening ride along the sand is a highlight
for many visitors.
BEACH
