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Australia is a popular family travel destination for Singaporeans and major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are among the favourites. However, if you are looking to explore somewhere off the beaten track, consider Broome, a coastal small town in Western Australia with an interesting historical connection with Singapore.
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In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Broome was global powerhouse in the pearling industry, supplying up to 80% of the world’s mother-of-pearl, primarily for pearl buttons. A significant portion of this precious commodity was exported through Singapore, serving as a vital trade hub linking Broome’s pearls to international markets.
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The pearling industry in Broome was a melting pot of cultures, with Japanese divers playing a key role due to their exceptional skills and resilience. Despite their dominance, the town’s main commercial area came to be known as Chinatown (and has remained so), due to historical baggage from the Japanese invasion in the region during World War 2.
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Today, Broome is a charming and accessible destination right in the city centre. With a population of approximately 14,000 residents, it offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore, with the airport conveniently located less than five minutes from the city centre.
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Broome’s tropical climate features a dry season from April to November, characterised by clear skies and pleasant temperatures averaging around 30°C. While it is warm and sunny during the day, it gets chilly in the evening and at night, after the sun goes down. This period is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season, from December to March, brings higher temperatures and occasional tropical downpours.
One of Broome’s most enchanting natural phenomena is the Staircase to the Moon, occurring two to three nights a month between March and October. During this time, the full moon rises over the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay, creating the optical illusion of a luminous staircase ascending to the moon. Planning your visit around these dates offers a mesmerising experience unique to Broome.
For Singaporeans, Broome is more accessible than ever.
Recent developments have introduced direct flights, operated by Jetstar, from Singapore to Broome, enhancing connectivity between the two regions. Additionally, flights via Perth are available, providing flexible travel options.
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Broome, located in Western Australia’s stunning Kimberley region, offers an enticing blend of natural phenomena, rich history, and unique experiences. During my visit to Broome last year with Jetstar for their inaugural flight, I discovered some of the best of Broome, from luxurious stays to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
Here is a detailed travel review featuring must-dos for an unforgettable trip to Broome. We spent 5D4N in Broome to complete all the attractions below and this was done at a relatively relaxed pace, with time to appreciate each attraction.
1. Witness the Mesmerising Staircase to the Moon
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Start your Broome adventure with a stay at the Mangrove Hotel, perfectly positioned to offer the best view the natural wonder known as the Staircase to the Moon. This phenomenon, occurring when the full moon reflects on the exposed mudflats at low tide, creates the optical illusion of a staircase reaching the moon.
Pair this magical moment with dinner at Johnny Sausage, an Italian restaurant celebrated as the best in Broome.
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The place was packed in the evening when we were there last year during the travel season in June. You have to witness it in person yourself – the Staircase to the Moon is a truly magical natural phenomenon. Coupled with the live music and the laid-back atmosphere at Mangrove Hotel, this makes for a surreal lifetime experience.
The Mangrove Hotel
Address: 47 Carnarvon Street, Broome WA 6725
Tel: (+61 8) 9192 1303
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Located on the turquoise shores of Roebuck Bay, the hotel is just minutes away from downtown shopping and the famous Cable Beach, serving as a convenient base to explore the city centre on foot.
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2. Explore Chinatown with Salty Plum Social
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Dive into Broome’s cultural tapestry with a guided walking tour of Chinatown by independent operators like Salty Plum Social. The latter is run by owner Chris Maher, with his partner Robyn, who will lead you through this historic precinct, showcasing public art and sharing stories of Broome’s multicultural pearling heritage. What I learned about Broome’s unique ties to Singapore, I learned from Salty Plum Social and much more.
We concluded our walking tour with Chris with a wholesome breakfast at The Green Mango Café, a popular local hangout, the perfect start to the rest of the day.
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Salty Plum Social
Tel: (+61 0) 418 905 244
Contacts: Mrs. Robyn Maher and Mr. Chris Maher
3. Discover Broome with Broome and Around Bus Charters
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If walking is too tiring for you, hop on a 2.5-hour sightseeing tour with bus tour operators like Broome and Around Bus Charters.
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During our tour with them, we were introduced to the town’s iconic landmarks, including Cable Beach, Gantheaume Point, and the Japanese Cemetery. Compared to exploring on your own, knowledgeable local guides bring Broome’s history and beauty to life, ensuring a memorable experience.
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Broome and Around Bus Charter and Tours
Address: 13 Farrell Street, Broome WA 6725
Tel: (+61) 419 018 800, Candy Evans, Owner/Manager
Email: rod@broomeandaround.com.au
4. Relish Lunch at The Aarli
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Situated in Chinatown, The Aarli serves a delectable menu of Asian-inspired share plates, main courses, and desserts. Paired with an extensive drink list, it’s a fun culinary stop for refueling during your Broome exploration.
The Aarli
Address: Shop 2, 16 Hamersley Street, Broome WA 6726
Tel: (+61 8) 9192 5529
Email: helloaarli@outlook.com
5. Dive into Pearling History at Pearl Luggers
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Step into Broome’s rich pearling past with a visit to Pearl Luggers by Willie Creek Pearls.
During our trip, we were provided with a 45-minute tour, offering a deep dive into the perilous yet fascinating lives of pearl divers and the industry’s impact on Northern Australia. Admire restored pearling vessels and hear captivating stories of ambition and adventure.
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After the tour, you can also buy a pearl or other costume jewelry from them as a souvenir. No hard selling here, so take your time to look.
Pearl Luggers by WIllie Creek Pearls
Address: 31 Dampier Terrence, Broome WA 6725
Tel: (+61 8) 9192 0022
Email: luggers@williecreekpearls.com.au
6. Craft Your Own Gin at Moontide Distillery
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Experience Broome’s spirit—literally—with a private gin blending masterclass at Moontide Distillery. Using native botanicals like Kakadu Plum and white berry bush, create your unique blend to take home.
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The owner, Trish, was a school teacher in Germany before she relocated to start Moontide in Broome, fulfilling her long-time ambition.
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Sip gin while savouring the artistry of distillation.
Moontide Distillery
Tel: (+61) 407 974 492
Adress: 17 Gwendoline Crossing, Billinngurr, Broome WA 6725
Email: admin@moontidedistillery.com.au
7. Stay in Style at Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa
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Indulge in luxury at the Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Broome’s only resort overlooking iconic Cable Beach.
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With its lush gardens, multiple pools, and a spa offering L’Occitane treatments, it’s a serene oasis that balances relaxation and adventure. For animal lovers, there are many wallabies in the resort that you can spot at night when they come out to roam.
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If modern Japanese cuisine is your sort of thing, make a reservation at Ikigai, where Chef Sean Kim crafts exquisite modern Japanese dishes.
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Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa
Address: Cable Beach Road, Broome WA 6726
Tel: (+61 8) 9192 0400
Email: info@cablebeachclub.com
8. Cruise Roebuck Bay with Broome Adventure Cruises
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Embark on a journey through Roebuck Bay with Broome Adventure Cruises. This was one of the top highlights for me, where we got to explore actual dinosaur footprints from millions of years ago.
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Discover ancient dinosaur footprints, WWII Flying Boat wrecks, and vibrant marine life. Aboard a purpose-built vessel, enjoy gourmet platters and sparkling wine while soaking in the natural beauty of this heritage-listed marine park.
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Broome Adventure Cruises
Address: Lot 689 Port Drive, Minyirr Western Australia 6725
Tel: (+61 8) 9193 5025
Email: info@broomeadventurecruises.com.au
9. Ride Camels into the Sunset
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Another highlight was enjoying a sunset camel ride along Cable Beach with Red Sun Camels.
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The experience is quintessentially Broome and what you see on travel postcards for Broome worldwide. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, enjoy the relaxed pace and panoramic views from atop these gentle creatures.
A true bucket-list experience.
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Camels are not native to Broome in case you are wondering. They became a feature on Cable Beach starting in the early 1980’s, when a colourful Muslim businessman, Abdul Latif Casley and his family arrived in town after travelling with their camels from Katherine. Casley introduced full-day tours aboard his camels, with sunset trips following in 1987 upon a suggestion from a local hotelier and the rest is history.
Red Sun Camels
Address: 19 Dampier Terrace, Broome WA 6725
Tel: (+61 8) 9193 7423
Email: bookings@redsuncamels.com.au
10. Dine at Spinifex Brewery
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Conclude your day at Spinifex Brewery, where local brews meet hearty Australian cuisine. Sample their signature beer tasting paddle, followed by wood-fired pizzas or fresh seasonal dishes.
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The vibrant atmosphere and close proximity to Cable Beach make it a popular dining destination with tourists and locals alike.
Spinifex Brewery Cable Beach
Address: 7 Sanctuary Road, Cable Beach 6726
Tel (+61) 08 6154 0866
Email: admin@spinifexbrewery.com.au
11. Take to the Skies with Air Kimberley
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For an unparalleled perspective, fly with Air Kimberley from Broome to Cygnet Bay. Air Kimberley first took to the Kimberley skies in 1992 as a small charter company. Now, they offer several different flight experiences, with their pilots also trained as. tour guides to provide a comprehensive and informative insight to the Kimberley landscape while flying.
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This scenic flight over the Horizontal Waterfalls and Buccaneer Archipelago is an unforgettable way to appreciate the Kimberley’s rugged beauty.
Air Kimberley
Address: 7 Gus Winkel Road, General Aviation Terminal, Broome International Airport
Tel: (+61 8) 9193 7155
Email: fly@airkimberley.com.au
12. Stay and Learn at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm
Immerse yourself in Australia’s pearling heritage with an overnight stay at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm. This Australian owned and operated pearl farm spans four generations of the Brown family, over more than 70 years. Until recently, it was an exclusive pearling village, accessible only to the par farm team and the local Bardi people.
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Join the Borrgoran Culture and History Tour to learn about Bardi traditions and explore the world’s largest tropical tides on a Giant Tides tour.
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Wrap up with a Pearl Farm Discovery Tour, gaining insight into pearl cultivation.
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm
Address: Cape Leveque Road, Dampier Peninsula 6725
Tel: (+61 8) 9192 4283
Email: hello@cygnetbaypearls.com.au
13. Watch Whales with Absolute Ocean Charters
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Witness humpback whales during their migration along the Kimberley coast with operators like Absolute Ocean Charters, a small family-owned and operated local business. Along the way, you may spot some dolphins as well.
The water can get pretty choppy, bring along seasick pills if you are the kind who gets nauseous easily.
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The intimate cruise offered us close encounters with the majestic humpback whales, complemented with knowledgeable commentary by a marine biologist and stunning coastal views.
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Absolute Ocean Charters
Address: 10 Slater Road, Broome WA 6726
Tel: (+61 8) 9192 5095
Email: info@absoluteoceancharters.com.au
14. Sip and Relax at Matso’s Broome Brewery
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End your Broome adventure at Matso’s, proudly claiming the title of Australia’s most remote brewery.
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Sample their famed Mango Beer and Ginger Beer, paired with a relaxed atmosphere and flavourful dishes. It’s the perfect farewell to Broome’s vibrant and unique charm.
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Matso’s Broome Brewery
Address: 60 Hamersley Street, Broome WA 6725
Tel: (+61 8) 9193 5811
Email: info@matsosbroome.com.au
15. Local Shopping at Broome Courthouse Markets
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The Broome Courthouse Markets is held on the grounds of the heritage-listed Old Broome Courthouse and showcases local arts, crafts, jewelry, and handmade goods.
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Savour freshly prepared food from multicultural vendors, enjoy live music, and explore indigenous art that tells the stories of the Kimberley region. Operating on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, the Broome Courthouse Markets is great for those looking to experience the charm and creativity of Broome’s local community.
This was our last stop before we headed off to the airport and we were able to grab several locally made souvenirs to bring back.
Broome Courthouse Markets
Address:corner of Frederick and Hamersley Street in Broome Courthouse Gardens
Opening Hours:
Every Saturday of the year
Peak season (May to September School Holidays, 8am to 1pm)
Wet season (September School Holidays to April, 8am to 12pm)
Sunday – 8am to 1pm