Broome

You’ve seen the photos: a procession of camels being ridden along a stretch of gleaming wet sand, silhouetted against a fiery sunset sky and shimmering ocean. Welcome to Cable Beach! Even in a country synonymous with sublime coastline, Cable Beach is special. If its silky white sand and aquamarine water, rolling dunes and legendary sunsets aren’t enough, the fact that it’s 22km long seals the deal: there’s room enough for everyone! Whether you swim, sail, stroll or join a sunset camel train, you’ll never forget Cable Beach.

Journey back in time at Gantheaume Point, home to Australia’s oldest dinosaur footprints. Some 130 million years ago, more than 20 types of dinosaur roamed this scenic promontory, and their ancient prints are visible at low tide in the reef rock. Join a tour or download the app to get the most out of your visit. While you're there, be sure to stop and soak up the views: with its vivid red pindan cliffs and clear turquoise water in every direction, Gantheaume Point is one giant photo opportunity!

Experience an extra-magical side of Roebuck Bay on the evenings when the Staircase to the Moon makes an appearance. Visible on two or three nights each month, this spell-binding cosmic phenomenon occurs when the light of the full moon hits the exposed tidal flats, resulting in an illuminated ‘staircase’ effect. Enjoy the spectacle while you wander the Staircase to the Moon Night Markets at Town Beach. Besides being an excellent vantage point, the markets offer tasty food, handicrafts and live entertainment.

Explore Broome’s colourful pearling history with a tour group or on a self-guided walk. Since the late 1880s, when the prized South Sea Pearl Oyster was first discovered in Roebuck Bay, the town has been a global pearling hub. Stroll Chinatown, the site of an early workers’ settlement where Asian, European and Indigenous labourers lived side by side. Browse showrooms of stunning locally made pearl jewellery. Pay tribute to all the divers who lost their lives at dedicated cemeteries and monuments, and learn more about the town’s rich pearling heritage at the Broome Historical Museum.

Broome is your launchpad to WA's vast Kimberley region, so hit the road for a day or two for an adventure you'll never forget. Head 240km south to the pristine Eighty Mile Beach for endless white sand, translucent water and abundant wildlife. Around 250km north, you'll find the mind-blowing Horizontal Falls (and yes, their name is accurate!). Jump on a flight inland to ancient rock formation Purnululu (also known as the Bungle Bungles), to see geology at its most awe-inspiring. Or immerse yourself in the timeless Aboriginal culture of the magnificent Dampier Peninsula, a mere day's drive away (just down the road by Western Australian standards)!